Between Palermo and Cefalú: The Role of the First Norman Monastic Foundations in the (Re)Christianization of the Island’s Rural Population in the Light of Archaeological Research in the Altavilla Milicia Region

Archaeological research at the monastery of Santa Maria di Campogrosso in Sicily reveals that the Christianization process under Norman rule was more rapid and extensive than previously thought. Isotopic and radiocarbon analyses of skeletal remains indicate that early burials, likely from the late 11th or early 12th century, originated outside Sicily, while later graves contained locals. This suggests a shift towards Latin Christianity, supported by architectural styles and coin evidence linked to French and northern Italian territories. The study, part of a broader research program on Norman cultural influence in medieval Europe, challenges traditional historical narratives about the pace of religious transformation.

Moździoch, S., Moździoch, E., & Chiovaro, M. (2024). Between Palermo and Cefalú: The Role of the First Norman Monastic Foundations in the (Re)Christianization of the Island’s Rural Population in the Light of Archaeological Research in the Altavilla Milicia Region. Power in Numbers, 229–239. https://doi.org/10.1484/m.bbl-eb.5.138119