A Day in the Life on an Archaeological Dig

The Macquarie Theban Tombs project has been excavating at the Egyptian site of Dra Abu el-Naga in the Valley of the Nobles in Luxor since 1991. Based on first-hand experience from the 2015/16 dig season, we will explore the history of this site and the tombs located there, as well as the day-to-day tasks performed by archaeologists over the course of a season. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in a hands-on pottery reconstruction activity, involving sorting, analysing, and repairing a variety of ceramic vessels, using modern replica pottery sherds. Please note this course will include images of human remains.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face-to-Face

COURSE OUTLINE

• The tombs and excavation history of Dra Abu el-Naga
• Daily tasks carried out by archaeologists in the field
• Practical pottery reconstruction exercise

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand the excavation history of Dra Abu el-Naga and archaeological methods
2. Categorise pottery fragments according to diagnostic criteria and reconstruct vessels