Manglisi Archaeological Field School (Georgia)

Location: Manglisi, Georgia

Season: July 4, 2027 to August 1, 2027

Session Dates: Week 1: 4th July Week 2: 11th July Week 3: 18th July Week 4: 25th July

Application Deadline: June 4, 2027

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://historicworld.ge/manglisi-archaeological-field-school/

Discount for AIA members: No

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Historic World

Project Director:
Dr Rupert Birtwistle

Project Description:

The Manglisi Field School forms part of an ongoing research collaboration investigating medieval fortified settlements in the Bzistskali River valley, south of the historic town of Manglisi in central Georgia. Located between the Trialeti highlands and the Algeti valley, the region has long acted as a corridor of movement, exchange, and settlement continuity.

Since 2020, archaeological work in the Sabudzrebi area has focused on documenting fortified architectural complexes and their relationship to surrounding settlement patterns. Survey and excavation have identified a broader network of associated sites across the valley, suggesting a complex and interconnected medieval landscape.

The 2027 season continues this research through excavation, architectural recording, landscape survey, and artefact analysis. Participants work as part of an active research team investigating construction phases, settlement organisation, and daily life within medieval highland communities.

Field school participants will contribute to:

• Excavation of selected architectural areas
• Recording of standing structures and fortifications
• Processing and analysis of pottery and finds
• Survey and mapping of related settlement locations
• Targeted test-pitting to investigate new occupation areas

The project aims to advance academic understanding of medieval settlement development while supporting local heritage documentation and community-led preservation initiatives.

2027 Programme Dates & Fees

Field school dates: 4 July – 1 August 2027
Duration: Choose from 1, 2, 3 or 4 weeks.

Programme fees (USD):

• 1 week: $995
• 2 weeks: $1,875
• 3 weeks: $2,695
• 4 weeks (full season): $3,495

The programme fee includes accommodation, meals, archaeological training and supervision, field equipment, scheduled transport and heritage excursions.

No previous archaeological experience is required. The programme welcomes university students, aspiring archaeologists and adults with an interest in archaeology and cultural heritage.

For further information, programme details and bookings, visit Historic World’s Manglisi Archaeological Field School.

Period(s) of Occupation: Medieval (c. 9th–15th century CE), with broader regional settlement history

Project Size: 25-49 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: 1 week

Minimum Age: 16

Experience Required: No previous archaeological experience is required. The Manglisi Field School welcomes university students, aspiring archaeologists, and adults with an interest in archaeology and cultural heritage. Participants receive structured, hands-on training in archaeological excavation, stratigraphic and architectural recording, finds processing, and landscape survey techniques. Working alongside professional archaeologists, participants contribute directly to an active research project, with training and supervision tailored to their experience and abilities.

Room and Board Arrangements:
Accommodation and meals are included in the Manglisi Field School programme fee.

Participants stay at the project field base near Manglisi, primarily in tents situated adjacent to the main building. A limited number of shared bedrooms may also be available, subject to availability. Private accommodation is not provided.

Mattresses are provided for camping accommodation, and participants should bring their own sleeping bags. The field base has shared toilets and shower facilities, electricity, and communal dining and social areas.

All meals are prepared on-site by the project cooks and enjoyed communally, either indoors or on the veranda. Participants with specific dietary requirements are encouraged to notify the project team in advance.

Academic Credit:
Formal academic credit is not currently offered directly through the Manglisi Field School for the 2027 season. However, participants seeking academic credit through their home university may request supporting documentation and a letter confirming their participation, fieldwork activities and training undertaken, where applicable. Any award of academic credit remains at the discretion of the participant's university. Historic World is also exploring opportunities to develop formal academic credit arrangements with partner institutions for future field seasons.