Weezie

I met a woman last night who travels often to Israel and she told me that there is a program where visitors (not nessarily archaeologists) can participate in archaeological digs -- someplace in Israel. She said it's sort of "archaeology lite" and that it's fun and interesting although she recalled that it was geared towards kids. Does anyone know anything about this?

eri

Mybe this site will give at least some direction concerning your request: http://archaeology.about.com/od/midd...iddle_East.htm

Weezie

Many thanks Eri. Very, very interesting site. Fascinating threads regarding the various digs, who is leading them, how much time is required to donate. I really appreciate your finding this!

AlexA

Some of the National Parks, many of which include archaeological sites have special programs on holidays and during school vacation times. Maybe contact them? http://www.parks.org.il/ParksENG

or try the nature protection group, SPNI http://www.aspni.org which list interesting tours of various sites

Weezie

Thanks AlexA I will follow up on these sites as well. I appreciate your posting the info.

suzpom

Weezie - What she was probably referring to is "Dig for a Day" which is sponsored by Archaeological Seminars in Jerusalem. Here's the link to that information on their website: http://www.archesem.com/dig.asp

It's a great program, a REAL ongoing excavation, and yes, you usually find something while you are digging, because the site, Tel Maresha, is rich with "finds"!

You can also sign up to be a volunteer on a dig - they operate usually in the summer (that link given by "eri" is a good one, as well as this one: http://www.bib-arch.org/bswbDigBAR.html (which has a list of the digs from 2006). Being a volunteer on one of these digs is different - you sign up for a particular period of time (a friend of mine is doing one for a month this summer) and pay your own room & board and expenses... still, it's a great experience.

Enjoy!

suzanne pomeranz, jerusalem, israel

Weezie

Yes Suzanne, I think you are right that it is "Dig for a Day." That is exactly what I am looking for. While I would love to do a month or a couple of days that amount of time just isn't in the cards for me so a day would be perfect. Thanks so much for the info!

SandyMerm

Although you are looking for a one day experience, I do want to mention to people who really want to dig for a few weeks on a regular excavation, most places do not require people to have a background in archaeology in order to dig. The Archaeological Institute of America posts fieldwork opportunities around the world and they let you know what experience and time commitment is required. http://www.archaeological.org/webinfo.php?page=10016