FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Who can participate in the ArchaeoSpain High School program?
Any high school student 16 or 17 years old can apply to join our crew. The only prerequisite for the participants is a desire to carry out archaeological fieldwork at an important historical site.
Do I need to know Spanish to participate?
No. Language has never been a barrier for people to participate in the ArchaeoSpain programs. Nevertheless, our programs will offer plenty of opportunities for those willing to practice a second language.
What size is the team?
The ArchaeoSpain teams will have between 10 and 16 participants. At Pollentia we will join a local crew of around 10 more people, usually Spanish undergraduate university students.
How do I know I am not going to break anything?
You will work under the close supervision of professional archaeologists who will teach you what you need to know to participate in every aspect of the excavation.
2. The application process
After we receive your application and application fee we will send you specific information about the program, in addition to a recommendation form that a faculty member at your school will have to complete and send to us.
At that time we will schedule an informal telephone chat with you to ensure all questions are answered and to make sure you are a good fit for the team. We will also want to speak to your parents for the same reasons. Then, if selected, you will receive an official acceptance letter and some forms to fill out. You will need to pay the balance of your program fee around 45 days before the start of the program.
Is my application fee refundable?
Yes, depending on the date. Please see the Dates & Fees page of your program for more information. You will receive a full refund if your application is not accepted.
Are other fees refundable?
Other fees are refundable until 45 days prior to the first day of the program.
How soon will I know if I have been accepted into the program?
We will send you a confirmation of your acceptance within a week after our telephone conservation.
What is the application deadline?
There is no deadline. We accept applications until we fill all the spaces in the program.
Can I start/finish the program on different dates than the ones indicated?
Yes, in some cases it will be possible. Please contact our staff with your specific needs.
3. How do I join my team?
With your program information we will send you directions to the rendezvous point at either Madrid or Palma de Mallorca airport the first day of the program. ArchaeoSpain staff will then drive students to the program.
Do you provide air travel?
No. We do not provide air travel. You will need to book your flight.
4. How hard is the work?
The work will mostly consist of digging the ground with different tools, from pick axes to small trowels. You will need to transport dirt by wheelbarrow or buckets. All this work will happen under the Spanish summer sun. There will also be artifact washing.
Is it really hot in the field?
Temperatures can reach up to 100°F (38°C) at the warmest time of the day, but we usually stop work before then. And it can be very humid. In the evenings, however, temperatures become more comfortable. At its coldest, it can drop to the mid 50's °F (13°C).
PLEASE NOTE: THE WORK IS NOT TOO HARD, BUT WORKING UNDER THE SUMMER SUN FOR A MONTH CAN TAKE ITS TOLL. THEREFORE WE ASK THAT ALL POTENTIAL STUDENTS BE IN GOOD PHYSICAL CONDITION AND GOOD HEALTH. ALSO, STUDENTS MUST TAKE THE NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS, INCLUDING WEARING SUN LOTION, A WIDE-BRIM HAT AND DRINKING LOTS AND LOTS OF WATER.
5. Is it a problem if I am a vegetarian?
No. It is not difficult to accommodate a vegetarian diet, but if you require other dietary needs please check with us.
What types of food will we eat?
We will eat local food. The Spanish diet is very diverse and healthy, including plenty of fruits and vegetables. Believe me, you are in for a treat!
What is the meal schedule?
Breakfast is a light meal, eaten before work. At about 10am we will stop work for a snack, usually a sandwich and/or a piece of fruit. Lunch is the main meal of the day, eaten at around 2pm. Dinner is lighter, at around 9pm.
6. What do I need to bring?
With your program information we will send you a list of suggested items and clothing that will be useful for your program.
Do I need any specific tools?
No. All archaeological tools and equipment will be provided on site.
7. What if I get sick during the program?
There are medical facilities at a short distance from the excavation site. If you need any kind of medical care you will be transported to the closest health care center. All ArchaeoSpain participants are covered by a complimentary insurance program providing full medical and surgical treatment as well as prescription drugs. Please contact our staff for complete details.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is recommended. In the rare event that a program is canceled ArchaeoSpain will refund participation costs, but will not refund travel expenses.
8. Will I have time to travel on my own?
On the weekends we offer free excursions to sites of cultural and archaeological interest in the site area. Provided that you have parental permission, you may choose to do other activities on your own, but it will not be easy to travel very far. If you want to visit other cities in Spain we recommend that you take some days to travel on your own before or after the program.
9. How are the students supervised?
At least two experienced and bilingual group leaders will supervise the students during the program at all times. While we will be busy most of the day either on site or on an excursion, students wanting to take some free time will be accompanied by an adult or at least one other student. And ArchaeoSpain staff will always be aware of the students' whereabouts. Students are not allowed to smoke, drink alcohol or use illegal drugs.