Discovering Ancient Societies in Portugal
Hunter-gatherers and farmers may have coexisted for a brief time in ancient Portuguese societies before the shift to agriculture. Unearth the mystery of this transition.
Around 8,000 years ago, Central Portugal underwent a dramatic shift in lifestyles from hunting and gathering to farming and herding. This transition, known as the Mesolithic-Neolithic transition, remains one of the most controversial issues in prehistory archaeology, attracting significant archaeological debate and extensive research. The common-held belief is that hunter-gatherers disappeared from Central Portugal around 7,000 years ago, and later, farmers and herders settled the area. But now, archaeologists are uncovering clues contradicting this.
By analyzing bone tools, shells, ornaments and human remains, researchers will trace the transition between these periods to better understand the complex changes not only in technology and subsistence, but also in how people thought about themselves and the world around them, as well as the nature of their social interactions.
Join researchers in Tagus Valley, Portugal, one of the most important regions to study this transitional phase, and help discover the answers to establish a timeline. You’ll excavate, sifting for tools and human remains, while working to preserve part of Portugal’s natural and cultural heritage.
For more information or to book contact our office (03) 9016 7590 or email
Reviews
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Marjorie Talbot | "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. |
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Carilyn Anderson | September "Fabulous Project"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. |
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Annette Gardin | "A week to remember"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. |
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jennifer Lauer | "Discovering Ancient Societies in Portugal"This was a great expedition, I enjoyed it a lot. The staff was particularly fantastic: everyone was very friendly and knowledgeable and happy to talk to us about all aspects of the project. We were able to spend a lot of time in the field, in the lab, and in the evening, talking and getting to know each other. They were some of the best staff I've worked with on an expedition. They took the time to explain and demonstrate what they needed to be done, and they worked with us constantly. |
| Activity Level: Very Easy |
| Location: Muge, Salvaterra de Magos, Santarém, Portugal |
| Lead Scientist: |