Archaeology Field School, Medieval Settlement of Kintureti, July 15 - 27, 2023

$1,000.00

11 Day Tour

Arch Travel Adventures was started by archaeologists with a passion for culture, travel, history and sharing incredible experiences with anyone willing to get out there. Archaeology and cultural heritage is still at the center of our hearts and we at Arch Travel Adventures are excited to partner with Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University to offer an international archaeology field school. Located in the beautiful Adjara region.This archaeological excavation is for anyone that is looking for more experience in the field of archaeology or are simply interested in working on an archaeological excavation and getting a little adventure while you're at it. No experience is required, just a willingness to get your hands dirty, work on a new archaeology site and a desire to help unlock some of Georgia’s rich history and cultural heritage while enjoying great company.

Project Description:

In recent years, by the team of scientific researchers of Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University, during the archaeological survey carried out in the preserved landscape area of Machakheli region, the remains of the early medieval settlement were traced.The settlement is located on an area of more than 500 square meters. In several places, the remains of the foundation of the existing building can be clearly seen here. In the western part of the settlement, the remains of a dry-built building can be seen, which must have been with wooden storehouses in the upper part. It is also interesting that during the surface exploration of the site, fragments of various ceramic vessels made of rough, not very well-worked clay, typical of the Middle Ages, were found. There are also the remains of a medieval winepress under a small rock near the settlement. It is likely that there should have been pitchers for wine nearby. This year, it is planned to carry out archaeological works on the territory of the monument, which will allow us to carry out thorough research of the monument. The archaeological material will be processed and analyzed in the laboratory. In addition, a thorough study of the territory of the winepress and its surroundings is planned as well. Based on the results obtained during the expedition, we will have the opportunity to make a graphic reconstruction of the site.

11 Day Tour

Arch Travel Adventures was started by archaeologists with a passion for culture, travel, history and sharing incredible experiences with anyone willing to get out there. Archaeology and cultural heritage is still at the center of our hearts and we at Arch Travel Adventures are excited to partner with Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University to offer an international archaeology field school. Located in the beautiful Adjara region.This archaeological excavation is for anyone that is looking for more experience in the field of archaeology or are simply interested in working on an archaeological excavation and getting a little adventure while you're at it. No experience is required, just a willingness to get your hands dirty, work on a new archaeology site and a desire to help unlock some of Georgia’s rich history and cultural heritage while enjoying great company.

Project Description:

In recent years, by the team of scientific researchers of Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University, during the archaeological survey carried out in the preserved landscape area of Machakheli region, the remains of the early medieval settlement were traced.The settlement is located on an area of more than 500 square meters. In several places, the remains of the foundation of the existing building can be clearly seen here. In the western part of the settlement, the remains of a dry-built building can be seen, which must have been with wooden storehouses in the upper part. It is also interesting that during the surface exploration of the site, fragments of various ceramic vessels made of rough, not very well-worked clay, typical of the Middle Ages, were found. There are also the remains of a medieval winepress under a small rock near the settlement. It is likely that there should have been pitchers for wine nearby. This year, it is planned to carry out archaeological works on the territory of the monument, which will allow us to carry out thorough research of the monument. The archaeological material will be processed and analyzed in the laboratory. In addition, a thorough study of the territory of the winepress and its surroundings is planned as well. Based on the results obtained during the expedition, we will have the opportunity to make a graphic reconstruction of the site.

Site Location: Settlement of Kintureti in Machakheli, Georgia..

Time period: Early Medieval period

Excavation affiliation: Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University

Director of Excavation: Professor. Roin Malakmadze 

Co director/Coordinator: Dr Sulkhan Mamuladze, David Grace 

Lodging: Lodging will be at the Malakmadze Guest house in the Machkahala National Park. 

Excursions: Gonio Fortress, Petra Fortress, Archaeology sites around Machakhela, city of Batumi and Black Sea.

Dates: July 15-27 (Excavation will include days off for excursions and siteseeing)

Cost: 1000$ 

Experience required: None.

What is included:

  • Lodging for the entire excavation.

  • Transportation to and from the archaeological site every day.

  • Breakfast and dinner every day of excavating with Georgian cuisine

  • Excursions to Gonio Fortress, Petra Fortress, the Black Sea and other sites in area

  • Wine tasting from local Georgian wine makers,

  • An amazing adventure with archaeology, wine, local Cha Cha, great food, great company in the beautiful Adjara region.

  • Airport pick up if you fly into Batumi airport.

  • Advice and consultation on any other travel plans in the area.

  • Optional for additional cost: 4 day excursion at the end of the excavation to the town of Mestia that sits in the shadows of the Caucasus Mountains with lodging, breakfast, dinner and truly amazing guided hike included (Contact for details)

What is not included

  • Airfare

  • Travel insurance

  • Willingness to get your hands dirty on a real archaeological excavation and a desire to have great cultural experiences, you have to bring that on your own.