The 2023 Field School at Roncesvalles
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The 2023 Aditu Archaeological Field School is a research project investigating the origins of the medieval ossuary located at Roncesvalles (Northern Navarre, Spain) just a few miles from the French border. The purpose of the project is to investigate what is rumoured to be the burial site of the rearguard of Charlemagne’s army, ambushed in the Battle of Roncesvalles and immortalised in the medieval French work “La Chanson de Roland.” In addition to its historical significance, the location has long been an important rest stop for pilgrims hiking the Camino de Santiago from France, as it represents the traditional first stop upon crossing the Pyrenees mountains and entering the Iberian peninsula.

The ossuary is the oldest structure that forms part of the religious complex of Roncesvalles. Historical sources, as well as previous interventions at the site, have attested to the long chronology of burials present within the ossuary, and this project anticipates being the most extensive excavation undertaken to date at the site.
In 2023 our aim is to better understand the history and importance of the structure through continuing to excavate the upper layers of the complex. The focus of the field school will be on the excavation and the analysis of complete skeletons and commingled remains, and will be accompanied by lectures on human osteology, calculation of MNI, archaeological practice, Basque and medieval archaeology and relevant topics related to field methodology and finds processing.  The field school represents a rare opportunity to excavate a unique site of huge historical significance and gain insight into different types of field and laboratory methodologies within commingled contexts.

The team responsible for the excavation, Aditu Arkeologia, has extensive experience in field schools and there was already a field season at Roncesvalles between 2019 and 2022. Results from the anthropological analysis of remains uncovered at the site will form part of a wider study of the population of Navarre in the Middle Ages, and samples from articulated burials are expected to provide data to be used in stable isotope analysis.

Where is Roncesvalles?

Roncesvalles (Orreaga in the local Basque language) is a small municipality in Navarre, one of the seven Basque territories nested in the Western Pyrenees. The site is located at around 1000 meters above sea level (some 3200 feet). Throughout the whole year but more specially during the Summer, Roncesvalles is a favourite destination both for tourists and pilgrims, as the sanctuary is a pivotal place along the old European pilgrimage route to Saint James of Compostela, known as "el Camino".

Will you join us in 2023?

The field school is aimed at students or graduates of archaeology and associated disciplines, although if places are available it will be open to anyone that has an interest in developing their knowledge and skills in archaeological field methodology. At least a basic knowledge of human osteology is preferred, as archaeological layers consist of primarily articulated skeletons and disarticulated remains, and the ability to recognise fragmentary skeletal elements will be an asset. Students will spend 7-8 hours per day engaged in field work or in the processing of materials recovered from the field. Throughout the course, students will become proficient in excavation procedures, field drawing, documentation, and find processing and analysis.

Still interested?

Please note that a certain level of physical fitness is necessary to get in and out of the ossuary, as well as to work for extended periods kneeling. The ossuary is a large space, measuring about 9m x 9m (30 x 30 feet), but has no windows and only one opening for access. As such, this may be a difficult site for those suffering from severe claustrophobia.

SESSIONS

First session: June 15-July 4
Second session: July 6-July 25
Third session: July 27-August 15

FEES
The cost for a complete session is 1750 euro

Fees include full tuition, room and board, tools, services (showers, basic wifi, etc.) and accident insurance.
Accommodation will be provided locally, including self catering breakfast and lunch (ingredients provided), with dinner being the main meal daily. All necessary facilities are provided (electricity, hot showers, dormitory style accommodation). Participants will be given 2 rest days in the middle of each session.
All projects and archaeological activities at Aditu Arkeologia in Roncesvalles follow the rules set out by the Government of Navarre Department of Archaeology and the Codes of Practice provided by the European Association of Archaeologists.

Please, visit their website to get familiar with what to expect and the guidelines and regulations we follow when designing our research projects and in our International Field School.