Description

ArchaeoSpain participants at the archaeological excavation of Clunia will join a field crew alongside archaeologists from the Universities of Valladolid, Burgos and Barcelona. Next summer we will be continuing the excavation of the city's theater, the largest of its kind in the Iberian Peninsula.

In recent years ArchaeoSpain teams have assisted in two major discoveries: deep archaeological levels that have redefined the theater's architecture and an elaborate drainage system.

Not long ago we began the excavation of the backstage area, uncovering several subterranean rooms which were possibly used by actors and gladiators. A larger-than-life-size marble statue of a woman - maybe a goddess - emerged almost whole. And then diggers uncovered a small necropolis just behind the theater's back wall. The analysis of these burials will help us to understand how the theater was used in antiquity.

This year we will be completing the excavation of the stage area and a second group will possibly excavate the untouched portions of a Roman mansion that was originally excavated in the 1930s.

The 2,000-year-old city sits atop a vast plateau about 3,360 feet above sea level. So far archaeologists have unearthed countless public monuments and structures, including the Forum, the Basilica, two bath complexes, several houses, and the theater the focus of our current work.

ArchaeoSpain at Clunia involves excavation, mapping, photography, and the conservation and cataloguing of artifacts. All participants are expected to engage in all archaeological activities during the program. While Spanish-speaking ability is not a prerequisite, we will be immersed in the language daily. The work can be demanding due to the summer heat and the physical nature of the excavation so participants should be in reasonable physical condition and in good health.

The group will also make time to experience Spain away from the shovels and wheelbarrows, either at the local cafe/bar or by touring several nearby Celtiberian, Roman, Visigoth and Medieval sites of interest. Also, the regional capital of Burgos is only about one hour from Clunia and the group will spend a day there.

Highlights

Over the past 10 years the study and excavation of the theater has not only shed light on how this ancient venue was built and functioned, but it has also provided us with clues on how the rest of the city developed. As a member of the research team you will learn about archaeology in the field at this exciting site.

The group will be staying at a house in the village of Peñalba de Castro, right next to the site. At present the program plans on housing 1-3 people per room. All bedding is provided. Food for breakfast will be provided at the house, while lunch and dinner will be eaten with the Spanish team at a local restaurant. We will have a mid-work snack on site. Breakfast in Spain is a light meal, while lunch and dinner are more substantial. Please let us know if you are a vegetarian or if you require a special diet so that we may discuss the best way to accommodate your needs. The house has a laundry machine and Wifi is available at the Clunia research facility.

Travel Types

• Archaeology
• Eco Tours
• Hiking
• Language Immersion
• Off Road / 4X4 Driving
• Photography
• Student Tours
• Tours
• Volunteering
• Heritage Tourism

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications

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

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Subject Areas

• Archaeology
• History
• Intensive Language
• Spanish
• Travel / Tourism

Cost in US$:

USD 2,830

Cost Includes:

• Emergency evacuation services
• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• Medical insurance
• Registration fees
• Travel while in host country
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

- room and board
- medical insurance
- excursions
- transportation to and from airport
- application fee
- administrative costs

Credit Available

yes

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Archaeology
• Eco-tourism
• Historic Preservation
• Research
• Restoration
• Tourism

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.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 10

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

One week

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

ArchaeoSpain's Mission Statement

ArchaeoSpain is an educational organization founded in 2001 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

2001