2021 Archaeological Diggings At Early Stone Age Site Orozmani, Georgia May-June & August-September

Location: Kvemo Orozmani, Georgia

Season: May 17, 2021 to June 25, 2021

Application Deadline: May 1, 2021

Deadline Type: Rolling

Program Type:
Field School, Volunteer

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Georgian National Museum

Project Director:
Giorgi Bidzinashvili - Georgian National Museum

Project Description:

Orozmani! New early Pleistocene (early stone age) site in Georgia is located 100 km southwest from capital city Tbilisi, 1200 m above sea level in the Lesser Caucasus. In the early 60’s faunal remains were discovered in Orozmani. The first archaeological excavations started in 2019. Early Pleistocene fossils of extinct animals and stone tools (indicating the presence of hominins) have been found at the site. The site is extremely important because of its close proximity (20 km) to one of the most famous prehistoric sites in Eurasia, Dmanisi, which boasts the earliest (1.8 million years) Hominin (H. erectus) remains outside of  Africa. The deposits of the site are in between Mashavera and Orozmani basalts dated back to 1.83 Ma. and 1.77 Ma.

Those interested in excavating the prehistoric site of Orozmani in the 2021 season will have the opportunity to become “pioneers” in the study of a new very important site, as well as gain a wealth of experience working with the scientists studying the site. Remember, the Orozmani staff and scientists represent the “Dmanisi Team” with extensive (20+ years) experience in studying prehistoric sites.

People 18 and older in healthy physical condition can join the dig and do not need experience, just an open mind, and sharp eyes. Just get in your spot and start looking for artifacts. Archaeological material found to date includes prehistoric animal’s bones and stone artifacts.

At the end of a perfect day, relax with other volunteers and the members of Orozmani scientific team and talk about the day’s finds. Go hiking to the beautiful landscape and enjoy picnics near the two rivers close to the site.

And of course, the best way to end the day is to party!!!

Orozmani team will explain everything you need to know, including:

• Methods of excavation.
• Use and handling of the tools that are used during the excavations.
• Recording the data obtained during the excavation.
• Use of Total Mapping Station.
• Study and typological classification of archaeological objects: stone artifacts, faunal remains and etc.
• Lab works including: Restoration, drawing artifacts.
• Experimental archaeology – Making prehistoric tools
• Wet screening
• Frequent visits and lectures at Dmansi Site
• Archaeological and Paleontological survey in the region

Participants will also attend talks about the prehistory of the site, basics of archaeology, paleoanthropology, geology, etc.

Pricing:

• 10 days – 1000$ – 10 day experience; 7 days digging, 9 nights at the camp house.
• 21 days – 1900$ – 21 day experience; 17 days digging, 20 nights at the camp house.
• 28 days – 2300$ – 28 day experience; 23 days digging, 27 nights at the camp house.
• August-September season –  20/08/2021- 30/09/2021
• Deadline – Rolling

Minimum number of participants – 5

Period(s) of Occupation: Early Pleistocene. Early Stone Age

Notes:
2020 FIELD SCHOOL HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO COVID-19

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: 10 Days

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: None

Room and Board Arrangements:
The cost includes: • Transportation from Tbilisi to Orozmani and back. • Accommodation at the camp house available rooms for guests (one- 1 person room; two- 2 person rooms; one- 3 person room). • Accommodation facilities include flushing toilets, showers and a washing machine. • Breakfast, lunch break at the site, dinner and evening tea/coffee (including alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages). We use natural products from local farmers. Please contact the organizers if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies. • Daily transportation to/from the archaeological site. • Excursion(s) in the region with lunch in the local restaurant(s) with amazing Georgian food and wine. • Goodbye party. • Certificate of participation.