Cosa Excavations 2026

Location: Ansedonia, Province of Grosseto, Italy

Season: May 31, 2026 to July 4, 2026

Session Dates: May 31st-July 4th.

Application Deadline: January 15, 2025

Deadline Type: Exact Date

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Florida State University, Davidson College, and Colby College

Project Director:
Andrea U. De Giorgi

Project Description:

Excavations at the site of Cosa, a Latin colony founded by the Romans in 273 BCE, began in 1948 and continued in regular intervals into the new millennium. Cosa boasts a remarkable history that spans more than 1,300 years; founded on the eve of the first Punic war, occupation continued at the site through Late Antiquity and into the Middle Ages. The current excavations investigate the bath complex of Cosa, located near the geographical and commercial center of the colony. Fieldwork from 2013 to the present has helped to clarify the layout and structure of the baths, answer questions about the building’s water and heating systems, and shed light on the chronological phasing of the complex as well as of the colony more broadly. In 2026 we will be concluding our investigations of the baths as well as beginning inquiry into other key areas of the town.

More on the history of the excavations on www.cosaexcavations.org

Period(s) of Occupation: Roman Middle Republican to Medieval

Notes:
Cosa Excavations opens applications to undergraduate students who are interested in participating in an archaeological dig on the scenic west coast of Italy. The project runs from May 31 to July 4, 2026. No previous experience is necessary to apply. In addition to gaining excavation experience, on the weekends participants have the opportunity to visit historic sites in the area as well as Rome itself, which is on a direct train line from our home base in Orbetello, Italy. Applications are due by January 15th, 2026. Cost: $3,750. This amount covers housing for the season dates, meals Monday through Friday, and a weekend trip to nearby archaeological sites. Travel to and from Italy, individual weekend trips, and weekend food, is not covered in the fees. More information may be found at http://www.cosaexcavations.org. Application link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdK7Iyrebt0Nh9WUE5nzoj6uiUUQBWmQXcLkFBf9-X-E0cgxA/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=104678970667559081727

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: Full season

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: No previous experience required.

Room and Board Arrangements:
Provided.

Academic Credit:
Academic credit may be arranged between participating institutions. Please check with cosaexcavation@gmail.com