THE ROMAN CITY EXCAVATION> Frequently Asked Questions



1- Do I need to have any experience?

No. This program is designed for people who want to learn and practice archaeology including those without previous fieldwork experience. You will work under the close guidance supervision of professional archaeologists who will teach you what you need to know in order to participate in every aspect of the archaeological process.

2- Do I need to know any Spanish?

No. Courses are given in both English and Spanish. Many people on the island of Menorca speak English and enjoy practicing with English speakers.

3- I have never studied Archaeology, can I still participate?

Yes. Our courses are open to all. You will learn all that is needed to fully participate in the excavation and lab work.

4- Can I change sessions after signing up?

Yes, provided that there is still space in the session of you new choice. There is no extra cost for changing session.

5- How hard is the work?

The work will mostly consist of digging in the ground with different tools, from picks to small trowels. You will transport dirt by wheelbarrow or bucket. There will also be lab work and artifact washing and classification. The work is not too hard, but you should be in good health.

6- Do I need to be physically fit?

No. You just need to be in reasonable physical condition and in good health.

7- Is it a problem if I am a vegetarian?

No. Special diets are your responsibility, but it is easy to maintain a healthy vegetarian diet on the island. We will do what we can and normally serve many pasta and vegetable dishes.

8- What do I need to bring?

Excavations: Bring comfortable, old clothes to excavate with.  Gloves to protect your hands. Knee pads. Mosquito repellent.  Sun-block, hat and sunglasses.

Island life: If you plan on renting a car (easiest way to travel the island) you will need your driver’s license.  There are many amazing beaches on the island, so you will want to be sure to bring your bathing suit and beach towel.  Normally, the days are hot and the nights are chilly.

9- Will I have time to travel on my own?

Yes. Our course is intensive, however, you will have time to visit the island. If you would like to visit other cities in Spain we recommend that you take some days to travel on your own before or after the program.

10- What if I hurt myself during course hours?

All participants will have accidental medical insurance during course hours.  We recommend that you have your own insurance or travel insurance in case of incidents outside of course hours or illness.

11- What is the water temperature?

Water temperature in April/May: 15-16 Degrees Celsius
Water temperature in October: 22 Degrees Celsius
Water temperature in November: 18-19 Degrees Celsius

12- Will I be able to do laundry?

Yes. We provide a laundry service in the student residency with a charge of 4 Euros per bag (we provide the bag).

13- I will be arriving a day early and/or stay an extra day. Can I stay in the student residency?

Unfortunately, we cannot provide housing outside of the session dates because we have back to back sessions and need to clean the residency between groups. Also, everyone asks and it has to be the same answer for all, regardless of group size. We do have a list of places to stay that previous students have recommended which we are more than happy to provide if requested. You can arrive on the first day of your session between noon and 4pm. If you are arriving later than 4pm on the first day, please let us know. The night of the last day is included and checkout time is at 10am the next morning.

14- Is there internet nearby?

Yes. There is free wireless in the library which is walking distance from the student residency. There are also various cafes and pubs which offer wireless, all about a two minute walk from the residency. For those of you not bringing your computer, there is an internet café right around the corner.