Rome Via Ostiense Necropolis Project (Funerary Archaeology/Bioarchaeology)

Location: Metropolitan City of Rome, Italy

Season: August 15, 2021 to August 31, 2021

Session Dates: There is just one session for this season.

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://romenecropolis.wordpress.com

Program Type:
Field School, Volunteer

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Sovrintendenza Capitolina ai Beni Culturali of Rome and Universidad Europea de Valencia

Project Director:
Prof. Llorenç Alapont and Dr. Marina Marcelli

Project Description:

The Sovrintendenza Capitolina ai Beni Culturali of Rome and de Universidad Europea de Valencia are undertaking the fifth season of the bioarcheological research project at the Via Ostiense Necropolis in Rome. The field school offers a practical training program in funerary archaeology, physical anthropology, and the study of Roman cremations.

The 2021 season seeks to excavate and study new burial areas and to analyze undisturbed cremations. A thorough and exhaustive micro-excavation of the remains deposited inside the urns will be carried out in situ. The goals of the project are twofold: the first aims to identify the physical characteristics of the cremated individuals, which allows us to develop a more complete biological profile and make interpretations regarding the conditions of Roman life and death. It also permits us to make interpretations about Roman funerary rituals. In addition, the project creates an opportunity for students and professionals to be trained in the anthropological study of Roman-era cremations, which is, indeed, an uncommon experience that translates well for those with a particular interest in bioarchaeology, bioanthropology, and forensic science.

Period(s) of Occupation: Ancient Roman (the necropolis was in use between the 2nd Century BCE through perhaps the 4th Century CE)

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: Although there is no experience required to participate in this project, the project staff expect participants to be ready to learn and ask questions.

Room and Board Arrangements:
Room and board is included in the course costs, as well as all meals with the exception of free days. You get down time each evening and on Sundays to explore Rome and other parts of Italy. The students will have independence in the evenings and on weekends, though safety is a priority for us. It is important that you check in with the staff when traveling far from the accommodation. We can give advice on the best ways to travel within Rome and which sites to visit.

Academic Credit:
If you would like to receive academic credit for this project, we are happy to accommodate your needs. However, it is the participant's responsibility to oversee all communication with their university and with the project director to receive credit.