Welcome to the Samshvilde Archaeological Summer School  - a unique opportunity to explore one of Georgia’s remarkable archaeological heritage while gaining hands-on experience in archaeology. Join an international team of   students in Samshvilde, learn practical field and post-excavation methods, and take part in the exciting process of uncovering the past.

The Summer School is led by program director, professional archaeologist and his doctorate students, who have long-term fieldwork experience at Samshvilde and this fact ensures participants receive expert guidance throughout the program. Under the program leadership, participants take part in excavations at the medieval citadel as well as nearby the 8th - century cathedral, gaining firsthand insight into the site's history and material culture.

In addition to fieldwork, participants engage in post-excavation activities, including cleaning and preliminary analysis of finds, preparing field documentation, and conducting initial studies of archaeological and zooarchaeological materials. These experiences provide essential skills for further researcher and a deeper understanding of archaeological practice. 

The 10 - day intensive program is designed to be both challenging and rewarding. It offers a unique chance to gain practical experience and immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical heritage of Georgia. Beyond the academic experience, participants will create lasting memories, develop new skills and be part of an exiting collaborative research environment.   

The Samshvilde Archaeological Summer School will welcome participants in two groups this season:

The first group will take place from June 15–25, 2026.

The second group will take place from July 5–15, 2026.

We also offer flexible dates for those, who are interested in joining for a few days, but this must be discussed before June 1st, 2026, in order to make team work flow smoothly.

The Samshvilde Archaeological Summer School does not have any particular prerequisites. However, applicants should meet following basic requirements in order for their application to be approved by the organizing team:

• They should be able to work on the site for 5–6 hours per day, which may require a physical endurance.
• They will also need to walk from the archaeological base to the excavation area and back after the workday (In the special cases, participant/s can be picked up by expedition vehicle).
• All participants are expected to demonstrate teamwork skills, follow expedition rules and discipline, and maintain a positive and friendly attitude toward other members of the expedition, contributing to the successful functioning of the school.
• Those, who are currently studying archaeology at different universities may also be asked to provide a letter of recommendation from their home university, signed by a professor or academic supervisor in the relevant field.
• Participants who do not have previous experience working on an archaeological field sites and are taking part in excavations for the first time may spend their first two days at the archaeological base under the supervision of experienced team members. During this time, they will learn the basic excavation methods and skills before joining the excavation work in the field.

The participation fee for the Samshvilde Summer School in Archaeology program is USD 1,250 per peson

The fee fully covers:

• Transportation from Tbilisi to Samshvilde and from Samshvilde to Tbilisi
• Accommodation at the archaeological base.
• Food and drinks.
• Educational and field materials.
• Transportation to Bolnisi or Tetritskaro historical museum. 
• The barbeque party after the program

The fee does not cover:

• Oversea or internationals flights.
• Personal expenses
• Health insurance
• The price for the Expedition T-shirts and Huddies (can be purchased on the site)
• Any medicines

Participants who wish to join the program for only a few days will be offered  customized fee, calculated according to the number of days of participation.