The archaeology of the 19th and first half of the 20th centuries had a major impact on our heritage, with numerous extensive excavations using methods that often ignored stratigraphy. The result was a considerable loss of information and difficulties in managing the remains.

Faced with this situation, the Épicur project has taken up the challenge of re-examining the remains that have been unearthed in the past. It focuses on the emblematic Roman city of Cuicul-Djemila (Algeria), and more specifically on its episcopal group.

Cleared by French architects A. Ravoisié in 1840, then A. Ballu between 1913 and 1922 and finally by A.M.L. de Crésolles in 1923, this episcopal group has been fully recognized. As such, it provides the most complete and representative plan of these Western episcopal groups, and is frequently cited in specialized articles and works, as well as in textbooks. Nonetheless, it remains very poorly known. The absence of stratigraphic data, the inaccuracy of available plans and the lack of detailed descriptions deprive us of fundamental information. What remains to be done, therefore, is an exhaustive re-examination of this nearly 1-hectare site.

The aim of the project is threefold:

• to study the Cuicul-Djemila episcopal group using a non-invasive research protocol based on new technologies;
• to train students and professionals at the University of Sétif 2 through seminars and practical fieldwork;
• work and participate in the conservation and enhancement of the site.