First Season of the Southern Mani Archaeological Project!

In May 2025, under the auspices of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Lakonia, with a permit through the Canadian Institute in Greece, the Southern Mani Archaeological Project (SMAP) initiated pedestrian field survey in the area of Porto Kagio on the southwestern coast of the Mani peninsula. SMAP is directed by Drs. Chelsea Gardner (Acadia University), William Parkinson (Field Museum / University of Illinois at Chicago), and Rebecca Seifried (University of Massachusetts-Amherst), and during this initial pilot season we recorded material dating from the prehistoric period through the time of Turkish occupation, and mapped the Achilleio fortification. The following is a blog post written by undergraduate student research assistants Cameron Barnard, Bella MacQuarrie, and Christos Zigoumis.
– Chelsea Gardner and Bill Parkinson

Introduction

In May, a team of 15 gathered in Mani, Lakonia – in the southern Peloponnese – for the first season of the Southern Mani Archaeological Project. With funding from SSHRC, the goal of SMAP is to better understand the southern Mani peninsula’s history, landscape use, and resource exploitation as well as the relationship between southern Lakonia and the wider eastern Mediterranean region from a diachronic perspective. The team was made up of the three project directors; Dr. Mo Snyder as geological field supervisor and their student, Bella MacQuarrie; a lab supervisor; two photogrammetrists; four ethnographers led by Dr. Manos Spyridakis from the National and Kapadostrian University in Athens; and three student assistants. The students engaged in pedestrian survey and collection of a 0.5 km² area of interest (see Figure 1), discovering pottery sherds from the Neolithic up to the early modern period. At the same time, Dr. Snyder and Bella conducted daily fieldwork as part of an ongoing project to map the geology of the Mani Peninsula.

Figure 1. Image of study area of interest.

Fieldwork

The day began at 8:15AM, when everyone would jump in the cars to drive to site. Once there, a quick briefing would occur and we would go over the location(s) being surveyed and conduct a daily safety check. With pedestrian survey, every day was different! One day, it would be easy walking across rocky beaches or overgrown terraces, and others it would be breaking through thorn bushes and large spiderwebs down the side of the mountain (see Figure 2).

Figure 2. Dr. Gardner in the field.

At times, the visibility was so poor we could not see the ground at all. Each unit surveyed was unlike the one before it. When ceramics or tile were found, they were counted, weighed, and bagged (see Figure 3). Backpacks would grow heavier throughout the day as ceramic samples were collected. When the fieldwork was over, the team would return to the hotel / base of operations, where the collected ceramics were washed and left to dry. Then the lab manager, Dr. Shannon Dunn (Bryn Mawr College), would sort and group the ceramics in each unit (based on time period, material, shape, etc.) and they would be entered into the database. The students would then photograph each group and upload the details on the database as well. Other skills the students learned during the season in Greece include georeferencing, ceramic analysis, and artifact cataloguing.

Figure 3. Team members (including Dr. Gardner and Cameron Barnard) counting sherds for the unit.

Results

The amount of material discovered far exceeded expectations, with the total count reaching approximately 1,200 individual sherds. Although many ceramic fragments were small and non-diagnostic, other pieces, such as rims, bases, handles, and glazed pieces can be diagnostic of different chronological periods (see Figures 4-6). The majority of these diagnostic pieces were found in concentrated areas, such as around buildings, above the beach, and under over-hanging rocks. This pattern possibly suggests that these ceramics had washed down from higher up the mountain, where buildings or a settlement could have been. This concentration of material is even more impressive since only ~10% of the 0.5 km² area of interest was surveyable; the rest of the landscape was inaccessible due to steep hills, dilapidated terraces, and dense thorny bushes. The team will head back to Greece later this year to review the ceramics with experts who study different time periods.

Figure 4. Diagnostic ceramic pieces, such as rims and bases.

Figure 5. Ceramic handles.

Figure 6. More diagnostic ceramic pieces.

Structures

The survey area proved not only to be rich in artefacts, but also in the number of structures and anomalies we were able to rediscover. One day, we found a rock-cut cistern (Figure 7) – which may be ancient – as Medieval cisterns are usually constructed of stone blocks rather than rock-cut, which was a surprise and further attests to continued human occupation of this area. Our LiDAR map showed this feature, but we had initially assumed it to be a sinkhole, so avoided it. It was only when the geological team approached it (thinking it was a sinkhole) that we made this discovery, showing that it is important to have many specialists on one team for the study of a specific area.

Figure 7. Rock cut cistern with view of the landscape and sea, immediately behind is the rock wall.

Near this cistern we also found graffiti cut into the exposed bedrock which consists of names, symbols, and dates (mostly 1950’s) which was convenient to us who wanted to know how old the graffiti was (Figure 8).

Figure 8. One graffito of a Greek last name.

Further down between two remas (dried riverbeds) appeared to be a large fortification wall with terraced walls inside gradually going down in elevation (Figure 9). The terraced walls were quite ordinary as most of the survey area had them, even if they were overgrown. But the wall was completely out of the ordinary. It was constructed of relatively small stones with no mortar or binding material in between and remained to a height of about four or five feet. It may have stood taller at one point as there was rockfall in most places, which might suggest that the wall may have at one point in history served a defensive purpose. But that doesn’t align with the shoddy construction and lack of evidence found within the walls, but there could be artefacts buried beneath the later terraced walls.

Figure 9. The rock wall.

A few days after this, Dr. Rebecca Seifried and student assistant, Christos Zigoumis, had the opportunity to explore a ruined structure which the locals referred to as “Frankoklisi” (Frankish church). This toponym excited the both of them since the Frankish presence in the Peloponnese lasted a comparatively short amount of time during which the ruling Frankish class constructed characteristically mediaeval western churches in such a foreign land. The Frankish presence in Mani is poorly understood and few remains of them are even known to exist here. As the two came upon “Frankoklisi” and scaled the remains of its walls, they quickly came to the realization that it was certainly not Frankish, or even Byzantine (Figure 10). They were unable to find an apse, which is an integral part in all churches of this period, and the entrance way was about nine feet wide; absurd for the 12×12 feet dimensions of the whole structure. Dr. Seifried suggested that it might have been a mosque or hammam, due to the Achilio fortress lying just up the mountain. This was an Ottoman construction and the easiest way to get from the sea to Achilio might have been to dock a ship at the beach where “Frankoklisi” is situated, where a path to the fortress may have been.

Figure 10. Birds eye view of ”Frankoklisi”.

Geology

The Geological Survey permit covers the archaeological site as well as the rest of the Mani Peninsula, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the area’s geological history.  Daily fieldwork involved traversing the landscape to map bedrock exposures, documenting structural features, collecting rock samples, and interpreting the site’s geological history through both in-field observations and post-survey data analysis (Figure 11, 12).

Lithological samples were taken of each representative mappable unit; these samples will be processed in the Acadia Petrographic lab and analyzed. Lithological samples will either be cut hand-samples or made to thin sections, offering further classification and a more comprehensive guide to understanding the geology of the Mani Peninsula.

The outcome of this work is to create a detailed 1:50,000 bedrock geology map of the Mani Peninsula, as the most recent map of the area is from 1984. Although the previous map is comprehensive, it does not trace key marker metalimestone beds that are of interest for archaeological research on the peninsula.

Figure 11. Bella standing amongst an impressive coastal outcrop.

Figure 12. Dr. Snyder standing on top of a rugged rock face.

Cameron Barnard, Acadia University, BA Honours Classics and Biology (2025); University of Waterloo MA Anthropology (2027 anticipated).
Bella MacQuarrie, Acadia University, BSC Honours Geoscience (2025), MSC Geology (2027 anticipated).
Christos Zigoumis, Carleton University, BA Honours Greek and Roman Studies (2027 anticipated).

Le circuit cycladique et crétois 2025 du CIG a été une fois de plus un succès! / The CIG’s Cycladic Island and Crete 2025 Circuit was once again a Success!

 

Et ainsi, la deuxième moitié de l’école d’été cycladique et crétoise du CIG touche à sa fin!

Ces trois semaines ont filé à toute vitesse, avec des étudiants toujours plus avides d’aventure et de savoir alors que nous explorions des musées, des sites archéologiques et les paysages spectaculaires de ces îles incroyables!

Avec Athènes et Paros déjà visitées, les étudiants ont débarqué à Santorini, émerveillés et impatients de découvrir ce que cette île, et encore plus la majestueuse Crète, leur réservaient.

And with that, the second half of the CIG’s Cycladic Island and Crete Summer School is complete!

These three weeks flew by, with students craving more adventure and knowledge as we explored museums, archaeological sites, and the breathtaking landscapes of these incredible islands!

With Athens and Paros already visited, the students disembarked in Santorini with wonder in their eyes, eager to see what this island—and even more so, majestic Crete—had in store.

Santorini a commencé en beauté alors que les étudiants se sont dirigés directement vers la ville d’Oia, déambulant dans ses nombreuses rues pittoresques et capturant de magnifiques photos des célèbres maisons bleues et blanches perchées sur les falaises. Le lendemain a été une journée bien remplie d’exploration à travers l’île. Première étape : le site archéologique d’Akrotiri, où les étudiants ont admiré cette ville ensevelie sous les cendres volcaniques, ses rues complexes et ses bâtiments à plusieurs étages. 

Santorini started with a bang as students headed straight to the city of Oia, wandering through its many picturesque streets and capturing stunning photos of the iconic blue-and-white houses perched on the cliffs. The following day was packed with exploration as we traveled across the island. First stop: the archaeological site of Akrotiri, where students marveled at the volcanic-buried city, its intricate streets, and multi-story buildings.

Après une courte visite de Pyrgos, l’autobus les a déposés à Kamari, où certains ont profité de la plage de sable noir tandis que les plus téméraires ont gravi la montagne pour visiter le site classique et hellénistique de l’ancienne Théra, offrant une vue imprenable sur toute l’île. Ce bref passage à Santorini s’est conclu par une dernière matinée à le musée de Fira Fira avant que les étudiants ne descendent la falaise pour rejoindre le port, prêts à embarquer pour la Crète! 

After a quick visit to Pyrgos, the bus dropped them off in Kamari, where some relaxed on the black sand beach while the more adventurous climbed the mountain to visit the Classical and Hellenistic site of Ancient Thera, which overlooks the entire island. Our short Santorini excursion wrapped up with a final morning at the museum of Fira before students descended the cliffside toward the port, preparing for their ferry to Crete! 

Arriver en Crète donnait l’impression de rentrer à la maison. Ici, les étudiants ont enfin échappé aux foules pour plonger dans ce qui semblait être la Grèce traditionnelle. Les étudiants tremblaient d’excitation alors qu’ils se rendaient à Knossos, où ils ont découvert les célèbres reconstructions d’Evans et débattu des avantages et inconvénients de la reconstitution des sites archéologiques. Ensuite, ils ont admiré les innombrables artefacts du musée d’Héraklion—beaucoup d’entre eux avaient été étudiés en classe mais pouvaient désormais être observés en personne. 

Landing in Crete felt like coming home. Here, students finally escaped the large crowds and stepped into what felt like traditional Greece. The students shook with excitement as they traveled to Knossos, where they encountered the famous reconstructions by Evans and debated the pros and cons of reconstructing archaeological sites. Afterwards, students marveled at the countless artifacts displayed at the Heraklion Museum—many of which they had studied in class but now had the chance to experience in person. 

Le jour suivant, ils ont pris la direction du sud pour explorer le palais de Phaistos, avec un bref arrêt à Gortyne pour voir le célèbre code de lois gravé sur le mur derrière l’Odéon. Le palais de Malia fut une autre visite fascinante, où les étudiants ont parcouru ses ruelles labyrinthiques en posant des questions sur les efforts de conservation et les quartiers excavés. Le moment fort de la journée fut toutefois la traversée en bateau jusqu’à Spinalonga, où les étudiants ont visité l’île vénitienne qui deviendra plus tard tristement célèbre comme colonie de lépreux dans l’histoire moderne. 

The next day, they ventured south to explore the Palace of Phaistos and took a quick peek at Gortyn to see the famous law code inscribed on the wall behind the Odeon. The Palace of Malia was another fascinating stop, with students roaming its labyrinthine streets, asking questions about conservation efforts and the excavated residential quarters. The highlight of the day, however, was a boat trip to Spinalonga, where students visited the Venetian island that later became infamous as a leper colony in modern history.

Après avoir visité tant de sites et de musées, quelques jours loin de l’archéologie les ont revigorés pour la découverte de l’ouest de l’île. Sur la route sinueuse menant à Réthymnon, nous avons fait un arrêt à la grotte de Svedoni, où ils ont admiré ses stalactites et stalagmites tout en observant les chauves-souris qui volaient autour d’eux. Le dîner s’est déroulé dans le charmant village de Margarites, où les étudiants ont observé les potiers façonner leurs œuvres—avant d’acheter presque tout leur stock! Malgré les fortes pluies et le sable du Sahara qui recouvrait l’île, rien ne pouvait les empêcher de randonner dans les gorges d’Imbros. Armés de ponchos, ils ont pris le départ de la randonnée et, rapidement, la pluie a laissé place aux éclats de rire et aux chants alors qu’ils traversaient l’étroite vallée entre deux montagnes. 

After visiting so many sites and museums, a couple of days away from archaeology invigorated them for the western part of the island. On our winding road to Rethymno, we paused to explore the Cave of Svedoni, admiring its stalactites and stalagmites while bats fluttered overhead. Lunch was enjoyed in the charming village of Margarites, where students observed potters crafting their wares—and promptly bought out nearly all their stock! Despite heavy rainfall and Sahara sand blowing in the wind, nothing could stop them from hiking the Imbros Gorge. Ponchos on, they set off from the trailhead, and before long, the rain turned into laughter and singing as they navigated the stunning narrow valley between two mountains.

Notre dernière journée en Crète était empreinte de nostalgie alors que les sacs étaient prêts à être embarqués. Avant le départ du traversier en soirée, les étudiants ont eu le temps de visiter le monastère de Gonia Odigitria, admirant ses nombreuses icônes, avant de découvrir le charmant musée de La Canée. Puis, avant d’arriver au port, ils ont exploré la ville vénitienne, flânant dans son vieux port historique et, bien sûr, dégustant une dernière glace! 

Our last day in Crete was bittersweet as bags were packed. With a late ferry departure, students took the opportunity to visit the Monastery of Gonia Odigitria, admiring its rich collection of icons, followed by a stop at the charming Museum of Chania. Before heading to the port, they explored the Venetian city, strolling through its historic harbor and, of course, indulging in some gelato!

Le trajet de retour vers le Pirée était tout aussi chargé d’émotion. Bien après le coucher du soleil, les étudiants se sont réunis à l’arrière du bateau, regardant l’île disparaître à l’horizon. Ils ont partagé leurs souvenirs, ri en repensant aux moments les plus mémorables, discuté des questions qu’ils n’avaient pas eu le temps de poser sur les sites et musées et, bien entendu, tenté tant bien que mal de masquer leur tristesse face à la fin du voyage. 

The ferry ride back to Piraeus was just as emotional. Long after sunset, students gathered at the back of the boat, watching the island fade into the distance. They reminisced about their experiences, laughed at unforgettable moments, discussed unanswered questions from sites and museums, and—naturally—tried their best to mask the sadness of their adventure coming to an end.

Je ne confirmerai ni ne nierai si des larmes ont coulé lors de ce dernier repas au restaurant… Mais ce que je peux affirmer, c’est que l’édition 2025 de l’école d’été cycladique et crétoise du CIG fut un succès retentissant. Les étudiants ont quitté la Grèce avec l’esprit rempli de nouvelles connaissances—et déjà en train de compter les jours avant leur retour.

À l’année prochaine!

I won’t confirm or deny whether tears were shed at the restaurant that last night. But what I can confirm is that the 2025 edition of the CIG’s Cycladic and Crete Summer School was an overwhelming success. Students left Greece with minds brimming with knowledge—and already counting down the days until their return.

Until next year!

C’est reparti! Le circuit Cycladique et Créte 2025 du CIG est lancé! / Here we go again! The CIG’s Cycladic Island and Crete 2025 Circuit is underway!

 

Après le succès de l’année dernière, nous sommes heureux d’annoncer que le CIG relance officiellement le circuit Cyclades et Crète pour l’école d’été francophone 2025!

After the success of last year, we are happy to announce that the CIG’s 2025 Cycladic and Crete Francophone Summer School is officially underway!

Cette école d’été propose un voyage de trois semaines, débutant dans la capitale, Athènes, avant de poursuivre vers les magnifiques îles de Paros, la célèbre Santorini et la majestueuse Crète. Les étudiants suivent un programme structuré dirigé par des experts en art et en archéologie, explorant tous les sites et découvertes archéologiques essentiels. 

This summer school consists of a three-week journey beginning in the capital, Athens, before travelling to the breathtaking islands of Paros, the famous Santorini, and the majestic Crete. Students follow a structured program led by experts in Art and Archaeology, exploring all the key archaeological sites and discoveries.

À Athènes, les étudiants ont eu un aperçu de la vie grecque tout en étant initiés à l’art et à l’archéologie de la Grèce antique, dans leur contexte historique et mythologique. Les après-midis étaient consacrés à revisiter la matière du cours à travers des visites sur les lieux historiques—que ce soit en admirant des artefacts dans le Musée archéologique national, Benaki ou cycladique, ou en parcourant les vestiges de l’Acropole et de l’Agora athénienne. 

Athens offered students a taste of Greek life while introducing them to ancient Greek art and archaeology, complemented by historical and mythological contexts. Afternoons were spent revisiting course material through its tangible form—whether admiring artifacts at the National Archaeological, Benaki, or Cycladic museums, or walking among the ruins of the Acropolis and Athenian Agora.

Les cinq nuits à Athènes ont filé à toute vitesse, et dès le premier vendredi matin, les étudiants ont embarqué sur le traversier en direction de leur première île—Paros! Malgré le fort vent soufflant autour du port, leur excitation était palpable. Ils ont été les premiers à débarquer, tenant fermement leurs chapeaux et s’émerveillant devant les bâtiments blancs aux accents bleus de Parikia, avant de découvrir les artefacts exposés dans le musée archéologique de l’île. 

The five nights in Athens flew by, and on the first Friday, students had an early morning start, boarding the ferry to their first island—Paros! Despite the strong gale blowing through the port, their excitement was unstoppable. They were the first to disembark, gripping their hats as they admired Parikia’s whitewashed buildings with blue accents and explored the artifacts housed in the island’s archaeological museum.

Le deuxième jour à Paros a été marqué par une aventure intense avec la visite de l’île de Délos. Les étudiants ont parcouru l’ancienne cité, entourée de champs de fleurs en pleine floraison, fascinés par l’état de préservation des structures et imaginant la vie quotidienne des anciens citoyens de Délos. Et, bien sûr, ils ont admiré les célèbres chats de l’île, qui semblaient toujours poser au bon endroit pour une photo et une caresse. La journée s’est terminée par un arrêt rapide à Mykonos, où les étudiants ont visité le musée archéologique et l’exposition mettant en vedette la plus ancienne représentation connue du cheval de Troie, avant de repartir vers Paros en bateau. 

The second day on Paros was packed with adventure as students travelled to the island of Delos. They wandered through the ancient city, surrounded by fields of flowers in full bloom, marvelling at the well-preserved structures and imagining the daily lives of ancient Delian citizens, and, of course, admired the island’s famously photogenic cats, who seemed to pose at just the right spots. The day concluded with a quick stop in Mykonos, where students visited the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos and the exhibit featuring the oldest-known depiction of the Trojan Horse, before heading back to Paros by boat.

Le dernier jour à Paros a été une pause bien méritée dans l’archéologie. Cette fois, les étudiants ont exploré deux villes modernes. La première, Lefkes, où l’impressionnante église de la Sainte-Trinité domine la mer depuis les montagnes, entourée des plus vieux oliviers de Paros. La deuxième était la magnifique ville portuaire de Naoussa, où les étudiants ont pu se perdre dans ses ruelles charmantes et son port animé, tandis que certains ont profité de ce moment pour se détendre sur la plage et savourer le paysage. 

The final day on Paros was a well-earned break from archaeology. Instead, students explored two modern villages. The first was Lefkes, where the impressive Church of the Holy Trinity stands tall, overlooking the sea from the mountains, alongside Paros’ oldest olive trees. The second was the beautiful port town of Naoussa, where students wandered freely through its charming streets and bustling harbour, while others embraced the opportunity to relax by the beach, soaking up the sun and the scenery.

À présent, les étudiants sont confortablement installés sur le traversier en direction de Santorini, impatients de découvrir la suite de leur aventure! Quels sites extraordinaires les attendent? Quel nouvel artefact les captivera? Et quelle vue spectaculaire leur coupera le souffle? 

Now, the students are seated on the ferry to Santorini, eagerly anticipating what’s next! What sights will they witness? What new artifact will captivate them? And which stunning view will leave them breathless?

Suivez leur périple dans le prochain blog alors que la deuxième moitié de leur aventure dans les îles cycladiques se dévoile!

Follow along in the next blog as the second half of their Cycladic island adventure unfolds!

École d’été de l’ICG 2025: retour sur notre séjour, groupe francophone du circuit Péloponnèse / CIG Summer School 2025: Reflections on Our Trip – Francophone Group, Peloponnese Circuit

C’est avec grand plaisir que nous vous communiquons le grand succès de la quatrième édition de l’école d’été de l’Institut canadien en Grèce, en Attique et autour du Péloponnèse!

Du 4 au 24 mai 2025, 36 étudiants passionnés ont vécu une expérience inoubliable lors de notre école d’été d’introduction à l’archéologie grecque. Le programme, combinant des cours théoriques avec les visites de nombreux sites et musées parmi les plus importants de la Grèce, a tenu toutes ses promesses – et plus encore! 

It is with great pleasure that we share the tremendous success of the fourth edition of the Canadian Institute in Greece’s Summer School, held in Attica and throughout the Peloponnese!

From May 4 to 24, 2025, 36 passionate students took part in an unforgettable experience during our introductory summer school in Greek archaeology. The program, combining theoretical courses with visits to many of Greece’s most important sites and museums, delivered on all its promises – and then some!

Ces 3 semaines d’immersion à la culture grecque, tant antique que moderne, ont débutés à Athènes. Les matinées étaient consacrées aux cours donnés aux locaux de l’ICG, un lieu d’échanges stimulants où nous avons abordé les fondements de l’archéologie grecque, l’analyse de céramique, l’étude des sanctuaires, des tombes et des cités antiques. En après-midi, place aux visites : La célèbre Acropole et son musée associé, les agoras grecque et romaine ainsi que le musée archéologique national ont permis aux étudiants de concrétiser les connaissances ayant été acquises en classe. Le tout fut ponctué de découvertes de la ville moderne d’Athènes dont un tour de son centre historique et l’ascension du mont Lycabette ainsi que de la colline Philopappou, offrant des points vues spectaculaire, sans oublier le diner de bienvenue à la taverne traditionnelle Klimataria, où les étudiant ont été initiés aux délicieux et conviviaux mezzés grecs!  

These three weeks of immersion into both ancient and modern Greek culture began in Athens. Mornings were dedicated to lectures at the CIG headquarters, a stimulating space for discussion where we explored the foundations of Greek archaeology, ceramic analysis, the study of sanctuaries, tombs, and ancient cities. Afternoons were devoted to site visits: the iconic Acropolis and its museum, the Greek and Roman agoras, and the National Archaeological Museum all allowed students to put into practice the knowledge gained in class. These visits were complemented by discoveries of modern Athens, including a tour of its historic center, hikes up Mount Lycabettus and Philopappos Hill with their breathtaking views, and a welcome dinner at the traditional taverna Klimataria, where students were introduced to the delicious and convivial world of Greek meze!

Une escapade sur l’île d’Égine nous a permis d’admirer le majestueux temple d’Aphaïa, en parfaite harmonie avec le paysage marin ainsi que de profiter d’un moment de calme insulaire en dehors de la capitale. Puis, cap vers des sanctuaires majeurs de l’Attique avec Brauron et le temple de Poséidon au cap Sounion, deux lieux où se mêlent archéologie et mythologie! 

A day trip to the island of Aegina gave us the opportunity to admire the majestic Temple of Aphaia, harmoniously set against the seascape, and to enjoy a moment of island calm away from the capital. We then visited major sanctuaries in Attica, including Brauron and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion – two sites where archaeology and mythology blend seamlessly.

La seconde moitié du séjour nous a emmenés sur les routes du Péloponnèse. Eleusis, Corinthe, Mycènes, Tirynthe, Épidaure, Sparte, Olympie, Delphes… Autant de noms chargés de mythes, d’histoire et surtout, d’archéologie, que nous avons pu explorer sur le terrain, en suivant les traces de Pausanias.

The second half of the program took us through the Peloponnese. Eleusis, Corinth, Mycenae, Tiryns, Epidaurus, Sparta, Olympia, Delphi… So many names steeped in myth, history, and above all, archaeology, which we were able to explore on site, following in the footsteps of Pausanias.

Moments forts ? Les compétitions amicales sur les anciens stades de Némée, Messène et Olympie, où les étudiants ont pu se glisser – le temps d’une course – dans la peau d’athlètes antiques. Ou encore les dégustations dans les tavernes locales et une visite mémorable d’un vignoble de la région viticole de Némée. 

Highlights? Friendly competitions in the ancient stadiums of Nemea, Messene, and Olympia, where students briefly stepped into the shoes of ancient athletes. Also unforgettable were tastings at local tavernas and a memorable visit to a vineyard in the renowned wine region of Nemea.

La curiosité et l’enthousiasme des étudiants ont été constants. Qu’il s’agisse d’identifier des éléments architecturaux sur un site ainsi que les artéfacts y ayant été mis au jour, puis conservés dans les musées, de discuter des interprétations historiques ou simplement de savourer des plats bien garnis, chacun a pleinement joui de l’immersion culturelle et scientifique

Au-delà des connaissances acquises, c’est une véritable communauté d’apprentissage et de passionnés d’antiquité qui s’est créée au fil des jours. En quittant la Grèce, tous ont emporté avec eux bien plus que des photos : une nouvelle compréhension de la culture grecque, des amitiés durables et une irrépressible envie d’y retourner! 

The students’ curiosity and enthusiasm remained constant. Whether identifying architectural elements at a site, analyzing artifacts unearthed and preserved in museums, debating historical interpretations, or simply enjoying a hearty meal, everyone fully embraced the cultural and academic immersion.

Beyond the knowledge gained, a true learning community and a circle of antiquity enthusiasts took shape over the days. As they left Greece, participants brought home far more than just photos: a deeper understanding of Greek culture, lasting friendships, and an irresistible desire to return!

 

Seeing Sites and Cities: my undergraduate experience living in Greece

When I was in elementary school, I set a goal to travel to Athens. There was something about the history, and architecture that always stood out to me and was a major influence on my life and career. This used to be a long-term goal, and I had set a plan to visit when I had completed my masters. One can imagine my excitement when I was offered a 3-month internship working for the Canadian Institute in Greece (CIG). Working for 3 months allowed me to gain experience working in a library while offering me more than enough time to see many of the sites I have read about. What I didn’t expect was how this job may change me and my plans, and allow me to discover Athens and discover myself and my interests. So without any further introduction, what did I do while in Greece?

The first responsibility I want to discuss is my work at the CIG. For the past 12 weeks, I was tasked with a myriad of jobs in the CIG’s library. Most days were spent sorting and shelving books, while accessioning any new books that were delivered. Additionally, I was responsible for posting on the CIG’s social media, posting about my trips and announcing any upcoming events that occurred at the CIG. At first, this work was somewhat new to me, especially working in a library. However, as the weeks continued, I found that I enjoyed the library work. Creating order and structure out of disorganized books brought me a sense of joy, especially when reorganizing the library. As a result, this helped me to consider working in a library when I am back in Canada. The final jobs I received in this position were event work. During events, I prepared foods for the event and served wine. Compared to the library work, these events were far more familiar, and acted as a great way to refine my serving skills. 

While the work was important to my position, travelling around Greece was another major aspect, and was probably the best part of my stay. At first, I was nervous about planning my trips, so I stuck to visits around the city’s sites and museums. My visits to sites like the Panathenaic stadium, Temple of Zeus, and the Ancient Agora helped me learn how to navigate the city, as well as build up my confidence in planning trips. If I were asked what my favorite site in Athens is, I would say that the Acropolis lived up to and exceeded my expectations. Having the opportunity to visit the Parthenon, and take photos of the surrounding architecture was one of if not the most memorable day I had in Athens. Meanwhile, my trips to museums helped me to see many artifacts and statues that I have studied firsthand. Take for instance my trip to the National Archaeological Museum, where I saw the mask of Agamemnon, the Statue of Poseidon, and the Antikythera mechanism, which had all been discussed in my university lectures. Seeing these artifacts up close gave me a better scope and size of larger artifacts, while allowing one to see the detailing in smaller artifacts. At the same time, these visits gave me the opportunity to see artifacts I had never learned about, such as at the Museum of Cycladic art, which surprised me in how invested I became in the Cycladic figurines from the Early Bronze Age. By traveling to the museum, I learned more about the Cycladic culture than I ever had in schools, where it was given a passing mention.

Eventually, I built up the confidence to take longer trips outside of Athens. From the seventh week onward, I tried to schedule trips outside of Athens every weekend, with some of my favorite trips being Delphi, Thessaloniki, Aegina, and Cape Sounion. These trips gave me a better view of Greece’s wide and varying landscape, which I came to love more with each trip. Tall mountains, wide valleys, and wondrous waterways and cliffs left me in awe just as much as the temples. Of all my trips, my favorite had to be the Island of Aegina, where the Temple of Aphaia resides. This temple stands out to me due to its archaeological importance in Aegina, as well as its history. Learning that there has always been a temple dating back to 500 BCE, and reading about the evolution of the patron goddess of the temple, from the Goddess Aphaia to Athena. Likewise, the city had so many sites to offer, and some delicious seafood. Finally, the Island reminded me greatly of Tobemorey, a seaside city I visit in Canada every Summer, providing this trip with a slight nostalgic tinge. Walking along the seaside, listening to the waves made me regret leaving, filling me with a need to return so I can visit the other islands in the Aegean sea.

A lot of what I discussed has primarily been what I did on my own. However, I believe that the most important thing I did was meet new people and make new friends. Traveling far from Canada could sometimes feel lonely, but participating in events around Athens allowed me to meet and connect with so many people. Large events were not the only way, as I frequently visited the Red Lion Pub to play darts with members of many of the surrounding institutes. As a result, many of my trips would not be on my own, and I was accompanied by a friend or two.

Overall, my trip to Athens and Greece overall has been a highlight in my life. I learned how to work in a library, visited some of the most beautiful sites, and made some excellent connections. Meanwhile I made some great friendships that will last long after I return to Canada. As a result, I find returning to Canada to be bittersweet, as while I enjoy returning, there is going to be so much more that I will miss. However, I know that I will inevitably return someday soon. So this is not a goodbye, but see you soon. Thank you to everyone I met, and thank you for reading.

Wyatt Lane
University of Waterloo Intern, winter 2025

Welcome, Wyatt!

Earlier this week we welcomed our new intern from the University of Waterloo, Wyatt Lane, who will be with us in Athens until April.

Wyatt is an Honours Arts undergraduate student in Classical Studies. His interests predominantly lie in Greek Mythology and History, and examining modern retellings of Hellenistic Myths to understand changes in cultural norms.

Through his internship, Wyatt intends to receive a better understanding of Hellenistic religious practices by studying the sites and artifacts. He will then take this knowledge back to Canada to help him to continue his undergraduate studies and pursue a Graduate Degree in Classical Studies.

Jonathan Tomlinson
Assistant Director

Exploring Greece Through Festivals: My First Four Months as the Alföldi-Rosenbaum Fellow

 

View over the acropolis of Athens and Mount Lykavitos

I first started coming to Greece in the summer of 2014 and never could have imagined that, 10 years later, I would still be travelling here for work. Thanks to the Elisabeth Alföldi-Rosenbaum Fellowship, I am now able to live in Athens for the first time, enjoying the beautiful city throughout the year. In September 2024 I began my stay at the Canadian Institute to finish up my doctoral research on “festivals and regional identity in Hellenistic Thessaly”, which has been aided greatly by the resources of the CIG, and the many contacts I have made as a CIG member.

Theatre at the archaeological site of Pleuron

The purpose of this fellowship being to complete my dissertation, I have spent many hours in the libraries of the foreign research institutes around Athens. In addition to the CIG, I have been able to conduct work in and browse through libraries such as the Blegen of the American School and the library of the British School. In addition to the many hours of research spent in these libraries, I have also been able to expand my research network by attending lectures at the various archaeological schools and institutes, with particular focus for the Greek Religion Seminars at the Swedish Institute in Athens and the TEXNH lectures at the Netherlands Institute in Athens. I am greatly looking forward to the upcoming semester, as the University of Thessaly in March will hold the 8^th annual conference “Αρχαιολογικό Έργο Θεσσαλίας και Στερεάς Ελλάδας” (ΑΕΘΣΕ).  I look forward to attending again to solidify connections with other scholars working on Thessaly and hearing all about the new discoveries in the region. 

Theatre A’ in Larisa, Thessaly

My research seeks to understand the role of festivals in identity-formation processes during the Hellenistic period in Thessaly and attempts to answer the question of how festivals served to connect communities within the region as well as the wider Greek world. My research adds to our regional knowledge of the role of religious festivals in the increasingly internationalized Hellenistic world. This research centers on a comprehensive assessment of Thessalian religious festivals and their interplay with identity formation on a local, regional, and international scale, which serves as an important comparison for other regions in this time period. The dataset for this research primarily involves inscriptions, but also archaeological evidence such as theatres and sanctuaries.

View over the Thessalian plains

There is nothing more inspiring for someone working on Ancient Greece than having the opportunity to walk the streets of Athens, seeing all the ancient remains you have spent your life studying and imagining yourself walking the footsteps of those you study. In between all the work in libraries, I have managed to take research trips as well as more leisurely trips to broaden my knowledge of Greece. This has included travelling around the Peloponnese focussing on many of the sites that held the ancient Panhellenic festivals, as this comparanda connects particularly to my research. Other trips have included exploring Attica more broadly, as well as daily walks around Athens, and the occasional hike up Mount Hymettos.

Christmas lights at Syntagma square

This first semester has more than lived up to my expectations. In addition to academic opportunities, I have also made many personal connections and friends from around Athens, with Red Lion nights really helping to meet those from other archaeological schools. As I fly back to Edmonton for the holidays, I can happily reflect on the first semester of Alföldi-Rosenbaum Fellowship and look forward to the upcoming term!

Καλά Χριστούγεννα και Καλή Χρονιά!
Adam Wiznura, Elisabeth Alföldi-Rosenbaum Fellow 2024-2025