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Overview
The Gallicano Field School in Medieval Archaeology and Bioarchaeology offers students a unique opportunity to engage in archaeological and bioarchaeological fieldwork. The program is centered around excavations at the Pieve di San Cassiano site in Gallicano, a municipality located approximately 20 miles north of Lucca, Tuscany, Italy.
The Pieve di San Cassiano dates back to the early Middle Ages, though its exact foundation date remains uncertain. It was once a prominent religious center in the Serchio Valley, overseeing 23 churches. Following the Black Death in 1348, the Pieve gradually declined until its complete abandonment in the 15th century. Today, the site, nestled within a wooded area, offers a well-preserved archaeological context, including the remains of the church, outbuildings, fortifications, and extensive cemetery areas.
Previous excavations in 2024 uncovered an imposing medieval building (11th-13th century) measuring 24 meters long by 18 meters wide, with three naves and three apses. Significant cemetery phases were also identified in the churchyard and behind the apses. Additionally, the remains of an earlier medieval building with stone burials were discovered.
The 2026 excavation campaign will focus on further exploring the medieval and early medieval contexts, including the cemetery areas and the structures of the church and annexed buildings.
The Summer School will be activated with at least 6 students. The maximum number of participants is set to 12 students.
The Summer School will be held on campus, in Gallicano (LU), Località “Al Sano”.
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Visit programme websiteProgramme Structure
This Summer School is part of a broader academic project, aiming to investigate the biocultural complexity of the region surrounding Lucca during the Middle Ages. Beyond academic research, it seeks to foster public engagement in archaeology, involving the local community in archaeological research and implementing effective practices for sharing findings with the broader public, in particular the significance of medieval human remains for contemporary society.
The School provides students with a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in archaeological excavation & bioarchaeological investigation under the guidance of leading researchers.
Participants will learn about archaeological field methods, including survey, excavation, GIS, informatics, bioarchaeological techniques, skeletal remains handling, and material culture analysis. The program combines fieldwork with laboratory activities and lectures on archaeological theory and practice.Audience
The program is open to a maximum of 12 undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students in archaeology, anthropology, or related disciplines from any country and institution.
Check out the full curriculum
Visit programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Full-time
- 19 days
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before
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Language
English
Credits
10 ECTS
Delivered
On Campus
Campus Location
- Pisa, Italy
Disciplines
Archaeology Biology View 14 other Short Courses in Archaeology in ItalyExplore more key information
Visit programme websiteWhat students do after studying
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Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.
Other requirements
General requirements
Admission Requirements
The Summer School has no formal prerequisites, and students will receive comprehensive training for all activities.
Before arriving in Italy, students are required to complete all readings on the provided reading list.
Active participation in both fieldwork and laboratory activities is mandatory.
Students must demonstrate a solid understanding of the concepts and techniques used in the field. The readings will cover topics such as bioarchaeology, stratigraphy, and geographic information systems. A strong grasp of these subjects is crucial for maximizing on-site learning.
Required documents- Identity Document (*PASSPORT in case you are a foreign student*)
- Enrolment Form
- Curriculum vitae
- Statement of interest
- Proof of tetanus vaccination
- Medical certificate of physical fitness
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Visit programme websiteTuition Fees
Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.
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International Applies to you
Applies to youNon-residents1000 EUR / full≈ 1000 EUR / full -
EU/EEA Applies to you
Applies to youEU/EEA Nationals1000 EUR / full≈ 1000 EUR / full
Additional Details
+ 1300 euro for accomodation
Living costs
Pisa
Italy
750 - 1100 EUR / month
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
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