Machakhela Archaeology Project
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.
Archaeology Field School/Volunteer Work
This year our excavation takes place at Chkhutuneti Castle. Chkhutuneti castle is located in the Machakhela Gorge in Khelvachauri Municipality. It was part of a string of castles which also includes Gvara Castle, Khertvisi Castle and Mindieti Castle two of which now reside in modern day Turkey. This string of castles were built in the 10th century to monitor and protect the trade routes that went through the area. Excavations so far show finds from two distinct cultures that occupied the castle, medieval Georgian and Ottoman. A burnt layer in the Ottoman period suggest the tower of the castle caught fire and collapsed. Written record shows there was a military campaign during this period suggesting the fire could have been from conflict. This is also supported by evidence that show the fortifications of the castle were reenforced and built to a noticeably low standard during this same period.
The excavations on Chkhutuneti Castle this year are part of a bigger project within Machakhela National Park. The Machakhela Archaeology Project is a project created to survey, excavate, and study the numerous archaeology sites within Machakhela which has received very little archaeology attention in the past.
For questions and interest email: Machakhela.project.org@gmail.com
Discover With Us
Site Location: Chkhutuneti Castle in Machakheli, Georgia..
Time period: Early to late Medieval period
Excavation affiliation: Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Director of Excavation: Professor. Roin Malakmadze
Co-director/Coordinator: Dr. Sulkhan Mamuladze, M.A 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, the city of Batumi, and the Black Sea.
Dates: July 15-July 29 2025 (Excavation will include days off for excursions and sightseeing)
Cost: 1100$
Experience required: None
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