Armenia: Tavush Excavation & Survey (IFR)

Location: 6RJQ+2CG, Птгаван 4104, Armenia

Session Dates: June 26- August 4, 2025

Application Deadline: February 1, 2025

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://ifrglobal.org/program/armenia-tavush-excavation-survey/

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Institute for Field Research (IFR), Wesleyan University

Project Director:
Dr. Jayson P. Gill

Project Description:

Investigate the roots of hominin occupation and behavior in the Armenian Highlands and southern Caucasus during the Late Pleistocene. Nestled in the scenic Debed Gorge of northern Armenia, this archaeology field school focuses on two pivotal Middle Palaeolithic sites, offering a unique opportunity to participate in research that aims to bridge significant gaps in our understanding of this period. Throughout the program, you’ll engage in a variety of hands-on activities, from excavation and survey work to lab analysis. Both in and out of the field, you’ll be immersed in the rich cultural traditions of the Tavush Province, a rural area along the Georgian-Armenian border. This region, where Palaeolithic research is still emerging, provides a unique backdrop for gaining first hand archaeological experience. Join us in exploring the profound history of the Armenian Highlands and contribute to transformative research that could redefine our understanding of hominin adaptation and technological evolution.

Field school highlights:

• Gain skills in essential archaeological techniques, including excavation, surveying, digital geospatial recording, stratigraphic interpretation, and the use of a total station.
• Work alongside a team of international experts to reconstruct past environments and analyze changes in hominin technology and site use over time.
• Connect with rural Armenian life! Participate in cultural festivals and visit historical landmarks in the Tavush Province and nearby Georgia as part of your program.

Period(s) of Occupation: Late Pleistocene

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: Students are expected to stay the full length of the program.

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: None

Room and Board Arrangements:
Nestled in the village of Bagratashen, near the Georgia border, our field school offers comfortable accommodations with 2-3 person rooms, each equipped with a private bathroom and air conditioning. The hotel staff handles laundry weekly, and students enjoy spacious outdoor common areas for dining, socializing, and occasional lab work. Meals are provided by the program, with a variety of options catering to different dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan. Breakfast and dinner are prepared by the hotel chefs, featuring traditional Armenian dishes like khorovats (barbecue), khinkali (dumplings), and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), adding a rich cultural flavor to your experience. Purified drinking water is supplied by the program and security is ensured with 24/7 on-site hotel staff.

Academic Credit:
TBD