We are continuing to make great strides into a new understanding of the development of the Roman frontier populations. Dacia (i.e. modern historical Transylvania) was, arguably, the most important frontier of the Roman Empire: its gold and silver sustained the collapsing imperial economy for two centuries. However, the “imperial idea” on the Eastern European Provincial frontier was more complex than Rome ever expected it… and it even outlasted the idea of Rome itself. Local Roman Provincial realities, born out of economic, cultural, social and political creolization, constant and dynamic negotiation of power, and shifting populations have outlived the ideological centers that have claimed historical ownership of these regions, creating their own distinct expressions of identity.

This program offers a very extensive approach to the anthropology and archaeology of the Roman frontier environments, through field work, laboratory analysis and lectures. Participants will be able to experience several field approaches, ranging from Classical excavation, anthropological site exploration, traditional STP (shovel test pit), and geochemical (phosphate analysis). These programs provide an anthropological and scientifically integrated approach to a Classical site, in a very complex environment, in a region fundamentally important to our understanding of European genesis.

Roman Villa Excavation – Identity and Wealth on the Roman Frontier

Location: Rapolt, Hunedoara County, Transylvania - Romania

Dates:

     Session 1: FULL

     Session 2: July 1 - July 21, 2018

     Session 3: July 22 - August 11, 2018

Team Size: 12-15 participants per session

E-mail: archaeology@archaeotek.org

Description: The integrated results of our various field techniques have yielded extraordinary results: a rural built space of ca. one hectare, with massive fortification walls decorated with exterior frescoes, with richly built two stories buildings, containing exceptional artifacts (well preserved bronze statues, jewelry, pristine condition coins, writing implements, etc.). Our target excavation, the central building of the “villa” has already presented us with a very complex and surprising occupation sequence and practices. We will continue to explore the way identity is built and negotiated in a very dynamic and rich frontier environment. As an extension of the Roman Villa Excavation, our Roman Settlement and Survey field school integrates Classical excavation approaches with various exploratory field techniques, ranging from STP (shovel test pits), geochemical soil analysis (phosphate spot testing), and surface field collection coupled with topographical total station assisted mapping. We will be looking at the transformation of the countryside in relation to the development of the Imperial road river infrastructure, and the role of our “palatial villa” in the development of a "creole" Roman landscape. 

Cost: US $1295 per session (includes program fees, equipment, room and board - see flyer for details).

Web Site: https://www.archaeotek-archaeology.org/roman-villa-excavation

Application Form: https://www.archaeotek-archaeology.org/application-excavation