Archaeological Excavation of Monte Testaccio

  Italy

• Rome: 
Roma (Rome)

Term: Fall 
Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: September 20-October 4, 2009 (to be confirmed in May)

Description: Although venturing outside our normal jurisdiction, ArchaeoSpain could not pass up sending some of its students to Rome to excavate at Monte Testaccio. Heralded as one of the most important research programs about Roman epigraphy, economy and commerce today, Monte Testaccio combines the efforts of three universities and ArchaeoSpain to process the pottery shards from an artificial mount created by centuries of discarded amphorae many of which still bear the markings of the contents and the exporters who transported them. Once an ancient pottery dump, Monte Testaccio is now one of the largest archives of Roman commerce in the world.

Monte Testaccio is located in the southern part of modern Rome and behind the old river port. Those who join us will participate in all aspects of this project, including artifact recovery and conservation work, restoration, recording and drawing.

While the crew is mostly Spanish, don't worry if you don't speak Italian nor Spanish - an English-speaking archaeologist will guide you. Nevertheless, we hope that our students take the opportunity to learn a new tongue or improve what they already know. And the city of Rome offers unlimited options for classical world enthusiasts. There will be many opportunities during the program for participants to enjoy the city, from its busy cafes and restaurants to all the historical sites.

Highlights: Many of the amphorae still have the maker's seal stamped on their handles, while others retain titles and notes written with a brush or quill listing the exporter's name and indicating the contents, the export controls, and consular date. All these notes make Testaccio the largest archive of Roman commerce in the world.

Qualifications: Previous fieldwork experience and Italian/Spanish language abilities are NOT required to join the field crews. All we ask is that applicants share a desire to learn about Roman history and culture.

Cost in US$: $2,915

Credit Available: yes

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: A university student (undergraduate or graduate) studying Archaeology

Age Range: 18 and over

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Italy Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 8

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

ArchaeoSpain's Mission Statement: ArchaeoSpain is a non-profit organization founded in 2000 by a group of archaeologists and teachers with the goal of providing an opportunity for people from all over the world to participate in scientific research important archaeological excavations in Spain and Italy. We are committed to furthering cultural exchange and experience in archaeology.

Year Founded: 2000