The Jersey International Centre of Advanced Studies is running two exclusive opportunities for both Islanders and international participants to take part in archaeological excavations in Jersey and Despotiko in Greece this summer.
Led by experts from Jersey, the UK and European universities, these field schools provide a rare chance for laymen to explore ancient history hands-on. No prior experience in archaeology is required, only a passion for learning and discovery.
Through hands-on excavation and exploration, attendees will gain invaluable insights into ancient human habitation and adaptation in Jersey and/or Despotiko. Attendees will learn how to carry out techniques relating to archaeology, such as excavation, restoration and preservation techniques, while conducting surveys and recording data. They will also contribute to ongoing research initiatives that inform both the local and international archaeology community.
Jersey is an internationally significant archaeological location because it is home to the largest and most important Neanderthal site in Northwestern Europe, La Cotte de Saint Brelade. The site alone has produced more artefacts and fossilised remains than the rest of the UK put together.
Despotiko in Greece is a very small, uninhabited desert island of about 37 acres. It played a pivotal role as a religious sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god, Apollo. Recent excavations have uncovered a sprawling complex comprising temples, altar and remnants of ancient rituals, offering invaluable insights into ancient religious customs and practices.
Dr Helen Dawson, an Adjunct Professor at the Department of History and Culture at the University of Bologna, who leads the Jersey field school, highlights the importance of island studies when compared to traditional mainland archaeology. She said: “Smaller islands have so many different landscapes tightly packaged into a small area. Therefore, you see changes very dramatically and how people used different parts of islands at different times. This has the effect of amplifying what you see on the mainland because everything is compressed and miniaturised.
“This is important because, when we gain a deeper understanding of an island’s past, we can forge stronger connections to our heritage and gain important insights into navigating challenges like environmental shifts and cultural changes.”
Island field schools exist globally but they are relatively rare, reflecting the emerging status of island studies as a growing academic discipline over the past 20 years. Therefore, the Jersey and Greek field schools offered by JICAS stand out in the realm of island archaeology education.
Find out more here. Applications close on 1 April 2024.
