Survivors' tales
"It was a thrill to handle shards of pottery that had been created and used during the reign of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius…We were fascinated to learn how archaeologists go about re-constructing details of Spanish-Roman wine commerce from the amphorae discarded by the Romans. We also enjoyed learning about ancient Roman commercial activities in evening discussions with the archaeologists working on the project… Anyone with an interest in ancient history and archaeology and an appetite for city life would love this program."
—Alan Spier, Glastonbury, CT, Monte Testaccio 2006
"Not only are you surrounded by the beautiful city of Rome, but
you have your
hands on it at Testaccio… you learn how important the everyday
activities were to
the structure of the Roman society."
—Cate Cotier, Mesa Community College, Monte
Testaccio 2005
"I learned that there are many others, like me, who love
archaeology, and, if you're patient, your efforts are rewarded with wonderful
results. I still enjoy the gratification and satisfaction of my finds and
of helping the Testaccio project, if only a small part… Although I
had been to Rome before, this time I saw a completely different side of
the Eternal City. I felt like a Roman, as we set off each day to work. I
was no longer just a tourist. Rome is more than a city. It's an experience,
a state of mind, never to be forgotten!"
— Marion Sudol, Mountain Lakes, New Jersey,
Monte Testaccio 2005
"The program was very in depth with the archaeology projects we worked on. It was beyond a typical "hands on" experience. Our group leaders were able to provide us with detailed accounts of the history and significance of our archaeological dig. I learned that it archaeology takes a lot of research and preparation before attending the dig site. It also takes a lot of patience and one is not going to find a golden nugget on the first day. However, when you discover something out of the ground from the dig site that no one has seen before it is a very exciting experience. Digging up clues from the past is an adventure."
—Sheldon Erb, New York City, Monte Testaccio 2005