Medieval Settlement of Kintureti Archaeology Project (1000$ tuition)

Location: Zeda Chkhutuneti, Georgia

Season: July 25, 2024 to August 25, 2024

Session Dates: First session: July 25th-August 7th Second session: August 12th-August 25th

Application Deadline: July 20, 2024

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095279433316

Discount for AIA members: no

Program Type:
Field School, Volunteer

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University

Project Director:
Prof. Roin Malakmadze, Dr. Sulkhan Mamuladze, David Grace

Project Description:

Chkhutuneti Castle

Chkhutuneti Castle is located in village Lower Chkhutuneti, on a high rocky hill at the
confluence of Machakheli and Daviteti river. The fortress controlled the military-caravan
road passing through the Machakheli valley, which connected the coast with Shavsheti,
Artanuji and other regions of southern Georgia.
The internal area of the castle is 150-200 square meters, the walls of the fence have
been destroyed almost to the level of the foundation. Inside the fence, ruins of buildings
of various purposes can be seen there. The remains of the tower are preserved in the
northern part of the rocky hill (dimensions: length – 5 m, width – 4 m, wall thickness – 80
cm, maximum height of the preserved walls – 1.5 m). Two tunnels ran from the inner
territory of the castle, one of them went along the slope to the west, towards the water
of Daviteti, a large part of which is collapsed. The dimensions of the tunnel are: height –
0.8-1 m, width – 0.7-0.8 m, wall thickness – 0.6 m. The second tunnel descends from the
castle area to Machakheli water. According to locals, the last section of the tunnel was
destroyed here in the last century during the construction of the highway.
The castle complex includes an open cellar on the northern slope. According to the
historical data Chkhutuneti Castle dates back to the XI-XIII centuries.

In 2024 we continue our efforts in excavating and researching the numerous archaeology sites in Machakhela National Park by starting excavations on Ckhutuneti Castle. Machakhela has received little archaeology attention in the past so the aim of the project is to unlock and gain a better understanding of the rich history and culture in Machakhela, Georgia.

Period(s) of Occupation: Early Medieval period.

Notes:
This archaeology project will be taking place inside the beautiful Machakhela National Park. Along with the archaeology project volunteers will have opportunities to experience the very rich Georgian culture which will include wine tasting, a traditional folk dance show and other experiences. We will also be going on excursions to archaeology sites in the surrounding region that include: Gonio Fortress (Roman, Byzantine period) Petra Fortress (Byzantine period) Batumi and the Black Sea along with several other historical sites around Machakhela. Participants will learn: Excavation methods, techniques and stratigraphy Participants will also learn the history of the region including Roman, Byzantine and Medieval periods Certificates of completion will be handed out upon completion along with T-shirts Tuition costs 1000$ per session or 1700$ for both sessions. Tuition includes lodging, meals and several excursions. Anyone attending both sessions will get free lodging and meals for the days in-between sessions. Travel insurance is not included in price and is the responsibility of participants. Contact for more details: davidgrace31301@gmail.com

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: 2 weeks

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: No experience required

Room and Board Arrangements:
Lodging will take place at the Malakmadze guest house close to the archaeology site in Machekhela National Park. The lodging will be shared rooms and bathrooms with comfortable beds and beautiful scenery all around. Meals will also be provided with amazing Local cuisine with vegetarian options provided. The lodging is also a 2 minute walk from a waterfall you can swim in and a 30 minute walk from a river you can also swim in.