Discovering Ancient Societies in Portugal

This experience far exceeded all of my expectations. I was very impressed with the level of knowledge of every one of the scientists. They all clearly enjoyed their work and always shared their knowledge with the volunteers. I learned so much. In addition, all of these people were very caring and compassionate. They made sure everyone's needs were met and made sure that everyone was comfortable with activities, food, accommodations, etc. I could not have asked to be around better people for this experience.

This was a wonderful project in a beautiful place. The archaeology staff was golden: kind, patient, fun, funny, good sense of humor, knowledgeable--I can't say enough good things about them all. It was a bonus that I have "eagle eye" close-up vision (besides decades of proofreading experience and attention to detail) and was promoted to not having to have my sieving checked anymore at the end of the first week. Célia showed me how to brush carefully on the first day and I was able to turn up some exceptional items that excited the staff. I was lucky in the spot I was working! In the briefing for this project, the temperature range was on the low side for the high (95°), as one day reached 109°. Most days were probably in the 90s or low 100s. The tent cover protected us from the sun; a breeze usually came up before we were finished for the morning; sieving was done in the shade of a cork tree. Work at the lab, around the corner from us, was interesting and varied. We had breaks during the day, but not so long that I felt that I was under-utilized. The dinners at the restaurant were delicious. Having the contessa (we stayed in her palace) at the Wednesday night pizza meals--on her patio--was delightful. Several members of the staff urged me to come back. It's food for thought because I was really good at this work; of course, good finds during one project don't mean that they would be as exciting at another time. If I returned, however, it wouldn't be in August.

When I started looking into going on an archeological dig I imagined sleeping in a tent or maybe glamping and eating beans out of a can over a campfire. That is not what happened here. Our accommodation, a beautiful old palace with a central garden. Our rooms, I romantically believe, were possibly the servants' quarters. Double or single rooms with shared bathrooms and a small but well stocked kitchen. Dinner was mostly eaten out at an authentic Portuguese family style restaurant with delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients. The dig itself, although work, taught me that nothing needs to happen immediately, we can slow down, there is no rush. We found fascinating large and small items, and the scientists were pleasant and enthusiastic to teach us. I would give the whole experience a 10 out of 10. I loved it.