On the Expedition
Help save the cultural treasures of a Roman villa overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea along Tuscany’s stunning central coast.
You’ll help save a nearly-forgotten treasure trove of ancient Roman culture and enrich Tuscany’s archaeological heritage as you join Dr Andrea Camilli, Dr Giandomenico De Tommaso, Dr Carolina Megale, Dr Francesco Ghizzani Marcia, and Luciano Giannoni. You’ll excavate the Roman maritime settlement of Poggio del Molino, document all finds, collect organic samples with a palaeobothanist, and survey the area surrounding the dig site to collect, clean, and document artifacts such as pottery shards, mosaic, fresco, metal, and coins.
Meals and Accommodations
Accommodation will be in the holiday village (villaggio turistico) 'Orizzonte' a short drive from the research site. You will stay according to gender in ground floor brick-built apartments in attractive surroundings The apartments are all furnished with TV and heating, but as they are well-insulated, they assure coolness in the midsummer. Breakfast and evening meals will be taken at the restaurant/Pizzeria or Café where local Tuscan food and ice-cream (gelato) will be available, while project staff will prepare lunches. Volunteers will be asked to assist with clean-up. The site has sporting facilities, two swimming pools, is close to the beach and has a food market, deli, newsagent and internet access. The site has 24 hour security, secure safe keeping at reception and coin-operated washing machines. You may have the opportunity to enjoy traditional cultural events and festivals, depending on the season.
About the Research Area
The site is located in luxuriant green landscape overlooking the sea where the Mediterranean vegetation is particularly varied in species, form and colour. You’ll be near the wood-covered Natural Park of Montioni’s Hills as well as the Coastal Park of Sterpaia, which has a rare and highly-prized humid forest, once typical of the landscape of the ancient coast of the Maremma. An important bird and amphibian reserve, Orti Bottagone, is also in close proximity. In Populonia’s own Parco Archeologico di Baratti, there is a famous Etruscan necropolis of monumental tomb mounds, with acropolis temples and a sacred complex, probably dedicated to Venus.
Characteristically medieval towns such as Donoratico, Bolgheri, Suvereto, Sassetta, and Massa Marittima dot the area, all of them famous for their traditional seasonal festivals, excellent wine, and succulent food (especially wild game such as boar). Populonia’s central position on the Tuscan coast makes it easy to reach Pisa, Firenze, Siena, Arezzo, Volterra, Pienza, San Gimignano, and Montalcino in a very short time.