Cosa Excavations 2026

Location: Ansedonia, Province of Grosseto, Italy

Session Dates: May 30th-July 3h.

Application Deadline: January 31, 2026

Deadline Type: Rolling

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Florida State University, Colby College, and Davidson 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 sector east of the bath complex of Cosa, near the forum of the colony. How the bath district was integrated into the fabric of the town is the research question that will drive the 2027 campaign.

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 30th to July 3rd, 2027. 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. Review of applications will begin on January 31st, 2027. Cost: $4,000. 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