The paper describes the results of a comprehensive experimental program aimed to characterize block samples of silty deposits obtained from the deltaic zone of the Llobregat River ( Barcelona).Undisturbed block samples were obtained from a deep excavation taking place on interbedded sandy silts by hand retrieval. A detailed examination of the retrieved blocks, including suction measurements as well as Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) scans was performed before testing. Material characterization was complemented with identification tests carried out on representative samples obtained at different points inside the block. Finally, soil disturbance was evaluated by means of CRS oedometer tests on specimens retrieved at different depths. The spatial variability of suction (water potential) and water content was defined here based on tensiometer measurements. From CAT images the sedimentary nature of the block as well as the position and 3D distribution of heterogeneities could be detected. CRS tests showed a similar stress-strain response from which the evaluation of sample disturbance indicated the very high quality of samples tested.