Partner: Old Ryazan archeological expedition has been organized by the Institute of Archeology (Russian Academy of Science) for more than 20 years now. Many treasures were found on the territory of the Old Ryazan settlement, some of them are now displayed in the Kremlin Armoury in Moscow. The majority of findings date back to the XI-XIII century. Volunteers will get a chance to experience the pristine Russian culture and take part in a real scientific expedition.
Old Ryazan is one of the largest Ancient Russian towns of XII-XIII centuries, it was the capital of the Great Principality of Ryazan and is the biggest archeological settlement in Russia. The city was destroyed in 1237 during the mongol invasion. Old Ryazan settlement is protected by the state as an archeological reserve and historical and landscape monument of federal significance.
Work: Assisting during archeological excavation together with other participants of the expedition under guidance of experienced archeologists. Volunteers work about 7 hours per day with a lunch break 6 days a week. There are many different types of work that volunteers can do including not physically demanding tasks, this is why anyone can take part in the project.
Accommodation & Food: Volunteers will live in tents (two people in one tent) in expedition field camp situated close to the working place. There is electricity in the camp, mobile and Internet coverage from volunteers’ devices. There is also a shower with hot water and camp sauna.
Volunteers eat with other participants of the expedition 4 times a day (vegetarian menu is also possible).
The camp is located close to the town, which means that if needed volunteers can go to shops, supermarkets, pharmacies.
Location & Leisure: Old Ryazan settlement, Ryazan region (4 km from Spassk town, an hour drive from Ryazan).
The camp is located on the banks of a river in a very interesting place from natural and cultural points of view. After work volunteers can go to the town, go for a walk, swim in the river or watch a movie together (there is a projector and a screen in the camp). During the free days some excursions around local sights will be organized for the volunteers and participants will certainly get all the information about the site and the objects they are looking for.
Requirements: Motivation letter. The experience of leaving in field conditions is welcomed.
Language: English, Russian
Airport, train/bus station: Town Spassk, one-hour drive from Ryazan. Volunteers will most probably meet in Moscow and go to Ryazan together. Early arrival to Moscow on that day or better the day before is recommended, so that there is enough time to reach the place.
Summary: This is the biggest archaeological expedition in Russia and a very fruitful one. The probability is very high that you will find some of the relics from XI-XIII century yourself!