This program requires participants to have Advanced Open Water Diver Certification (any world-wide recognized training organization) and to complete a Medical Approval Form prior to the beginning of the field school.

Train in underwater archaeology along Malta’s stunning coastline by excavating the Late Roman harbor of Marsaskala. During the Roman period, Marsaskala’s bay formed part of a wider maritime network connecting nearby settlements and the important sanctuary of Tas-Silġ. Its strategic location and sheltered waters gave sailors safe anchorage as maritime trade expanded across the Mediterranean. 

Today, Marsaskala faces growing pressure from coastal development and environmental change, so you will play an important role in helping to document and recover artifacts from this vulnerable underwater site. Recent excavations have revealed a wealth of material dating back to the 6th century, including largely intact amphorae, while raising new questions about what lies beneath the bay. Does the concentration of amphorae point to a Late Roman shipwreck? Is the newly identified piled-rock feature part of a harbor structure or a ballast deposit? Join the upcoming season of the Marsaskala field school to help answer these questions, all while developing essential hands-on skills in underwater archaeology and spending your days diving the beautiful Mediterranean.

Field school highlights:

• Gain experience in a range of important archaeology field methods, including photogrammetry, 3D modeling, remote sensing, and underwater excavation
• Work alongside Malta’s Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, gaining professional insight into how heritage experts navigate the delicate balance between development, tourism, and conservation
• Spend your field days scuba diving and your days off exploring Malta’s world-class beaches, bucket-list heritage sites, and vibrant local culture