Abstract

During the Late Bronze Age (12th–10th centuries BC), human impact on the Italian Prealpine and Alpine regions intensified through the construction of terraces, water channels, and roads, reshaping the landscape. Building on these innovations, the proto-urban centre of Como-Spina Verde (Lombardy, Northern Italy) expanded during the Early Iron Age, reaching 60 hectares and ultimately growing to 150 hectares by the 5th century BC. Despite its importance, research on this settlement has been fragmented due to discontinuous research efforts and unregulated urban expansion. This study addresses these challenges with a structured, multi-scalar archaeological approach, aiming to explore the development of Como-Spina Verde’s urbanization, layout, and environmental adaptations. The study highlights terraces, roads, water management canals, wells, and dwellings, revealing the site’s critical role in landscape transformation. Recent LiDAR mapping within Spina Verde Park facilitated the detailed mapping of 232 architectural elements out of 406 identified features. As part of the “From Genua to Günzburg” Project, the study incorporates historical records dating back to the 19th century, alongside the impacts of modern constructions, creating a composite record of the site. This analysis identifies structural evidence, categorizes construction techniques, and assesses orientations and interdependencies between architectural elements. This systematic approach highlights Como-Spina Verde’s complexity as a planned proto-urban settlement, offering a comparative framework for similar Alpine contexts.