Measures to preserve painted and unpainted tombs affected by degradation problems at the archaeological site of Monte Sannace

Research findings of microbial monitoring at the archaeological site of Monte Sannace have indicated high levels of bacteria, especially on the inner walls of the painted tombs, as tomb no. 8. Tomb no. 105 was rich in organic matter, organic carbon and biological growth was not very high. Research findings have demonstrated that deterioration in each kind of tomb was very different. In no. 8 deterioration was caused by natural agents and, at the same time, by anthropogenic factors: the roof as well as chemical products used for conservation has helped speed microorganism growth. Principal aim of this study was to provide information on the degradation processes and to predict areas at risk in conservation. We also studied potential risk of biological colonisation of newly exposed rock samples. Surveys were performed in three stages: before, during and after restoration.