Roman Transylvania Archaeology Field School (Romania)

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Dacia (i.e. modern historical Transylvania) was, arguably, the most important frontier of the Roman Empire: its gold and silver sustained the collapsing imperial economy for two centuries. However, the “imperial idea” on the Eastern European Provincial frontier was more complex than Rome ever expected it… and it even outlasted the idea of Rome itself. Local Roman Provincial realities, born out of economic, cultural, social and political creolization, constant and dynamic negotiation of power, and shifting populations, have outlived the ideological centers that have claimed historical ownership of these regions, creating their own distinct expressions of identity.

Our programs offer a very extensive approach to the anthropology and archaeology of Roman frontier environments, through field work, laboratory analysis and lectures. Our participants will be able to experience several field approaches, ranging from Classical excavation, anthropological site exploration, traditional STP (shovel test pit), and various surveys. Our programs provide an anthropological and scientifically integrated approach to a Classical site, in a very complex environment, in a region fundamentally important to our understanding of European genesis.

Roman Villa and Settlement Excavation and Survey – Identity and Wealth on the Roman Frontier

Location: Rapolt, Hunedoara County, Transylvania – Romania

Dates:

  • Session 1: June 9–June 29, 2019
  • Session 2: June 30–July 20, 2019

Team Size: 18-20 participants per session

E-mail: archaeology@archaeotek.org

Description

The integrated results of our various field techniques have yielded extraordinary results: a rural built space of almost one hectare, with massive fortification walls decorated with exterior frescoes, richly built two stories buildings, containing exceptional artifacts (well preserved bronze statues, jewelry, pristine condition coins, writing implements, etc.). Our target excavation, the central building of the “villa” has already presented us with a very complex and surprising occupation sequence and practices. We will continue to explore the way identity is built and negotiated in a very dynamic and rich frontier environment, as well as the development of a “creole” Roman landscape. Cost: US$ 1395 per session ( includes  program fees, lectures, equipment, room and board – see flyer for details; ; not included: travel to and from Rapolt, medical insurance) ).

Web site

Application

Our programs are available for both credit students and non-credit participants.

Best regards,

Dr. Andre Gonciar
Director – ArchaeoTek / BioArch Canada