Apollonia Pontica Excavation Project 2018

Archaeology and history of the Greek colonization and culture along the Western Black Sea Coast; Excavations of the Archaic Greek settlement and the sacred precinct (temenos) from Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic period of Apollonia Pontica; Archaeological field techniques and methods for excavation and documentation; Processing of finds and samples; Excursions to significant heritage sites in Bulgaria.

Ancient Apollonia Pontica (present-day Sozopol, Bulgria) is one of the earliest towns on the Western Black Sea coast. The city, founded by Miletian colonists around 610 BC, was named Apollonia Pontica in honour of the patron deity of Miletus - Apollo. The Ancient authors identify the philosopher named Anaximander as the founder of the city. It became an autonomous and strong democratic polis and important trade center between Ancient Greece and Thrace. Thanks to its strong navy and naturally protected harbors, Apollonia kept control of the major merchant road along the Western Black Sea Coast, called Via Pontica, for several centuries. The city preserved its independence during the campaigns of Phillip II of Macedon (342-339 BC) and Alexander the Great (335 BC) but in 72 BC it was conquered, pillaged and burned by the Roman legions of Marcus Lucullus.

The Field School Season 2018 envisions excavations in the area of the Archaic and Classical Greek and Hellenistic temples, Ancient Greek copper foundry and the Early Christian basilica and necropolis.

Learn about Ancient Greek Archaeology
Develop your archaeological techniques
Have the opportunity to participate in a pottery conservation course
Earn academic credit

English