Program Overview
ArchaeoSpain members that travel to Tiermes will join the field crews unearthing the Celtiberian, Roman and Medieval site of one of Spain’s most diverse archaeological centers. In 2006, participants will work alongside archaeologists and university archaeology students from several Spanish universities as we uncover various areas of the Roman Forum, the heart of the ancient city. Last year’s team uncovered some unknown public buildings that will need further investigation this coming summer.
Tiermes, which contained a settlement from the Bronze Age through the 13th century A.D., was built using the malleable bedrock as foundation and boasts one of Iberia’s most unique aqueducts. (see a detailed description of the site)
ArchaeoSpain
participants at Tiermes will be involved in all aspects of the project,
including excavation, land survey, mapping, photography, and the conservation,
cataloguing and exhibition of artifacts.
All members are expected to engage in all archaeological activities during the program. While knowledge of Spanish is not required, we will be immersed in the language daily. Thus ArchaeoSpain hopes that our students will take advantage of the program learn the basics or improve their spoken Spanish. Imagine – you might learn how to say “plumb bob” in Spanish.
Work will 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. Despite the manual labor, the Tiermes crew’s work is never finished unless it can relax and reflect on the day's excavation. Therefore, the group will make time each day to experience Spain away from the trowels and brushes, either by relaxing at a café bar or by touring several nearby Celtiberian, Roman and Medieval sites of interest.
In cooperation with students' universities, ArchaeoSpain will offer credits toward their majors and degrees.