Archaeology - Italian Renaissance
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Have you ever wondered why travelers, artists, poets, scientists and musicians have flocked to the Eternal City for hundreds of years? You probably thought it was to see paintings, hear music, listen to poetry and eat great food, right? Wrong! It's archaeology, which began as an undisciplined effort there at about this time! Of course! By the 16th century Rome had been a leading European city for 2,000 years with all the trappings of wealth and power that go along with that title. In this camp we will survey some of the tumultuous events, personalities and times that characterize Renaissance Rome, a city that haunts the history of Western Civilization like no other with the possible exceptions of Athens and London. We know from history, science and art what is supposed to have happened there, but what does archaeology have to say? How will you know? Why should you care? In this intense week, stories of this fabulous and mysterious city will emerge before your unbelieving eyes as you come to know Rome in the 16th century, based on the famous discoveries at the Crypta Balbi. Be prepared to find amazing things: the Renaissance in Italy was a time when stupendous changes convulsed not just Rome but the length and breadth of Europe: the rise of Humanism. The Protestant Reformation. New directions in art, warfare and government. The discovery and exploration of “New Worlds”. Brace yourself! You'll want nothing so much as to go there yourself once this dig is done! Using the site from the fabled Campus Martius we will plumb the depths of what it meant to be Roman in its Renaissance Age as archaeologists do. Your instructor, Geof Purcell, has been in Rome studying its wonders for decades; let him show and tell you some of what he has learned there. Don't miss this one, it is literally for the ages!
General Information
- Campers should arrive dressed for the weather, with appropriate footwear and a cap or hat.
- Sunblock and kid-friendly bug spray may also be needed.
- All campers should pack a hearty lunch, labeled drink and a snack.
- Space is limited; please sign up early if you wish to have your children attend.
- The camp will end Friday no later than 2pm after a feast and exhibit of the diggers’ finds.
- *CAMP ENDS AT 2PM ON FRIDAY - All campers are expected to be picked up AT THE LATEST by 2pm*
Instructor's Experience
- Geof Purcell is a professional archaeologist who found his true vocation teaching children.
- He has studied since the mid 1970s in California (BA), Arizona (MA) and New York (unfinished PhD) and has traveled the world and excavated across the USA as well as in Egypt, Mexico, Serbia, Greece and Scotland.
- He had been teaching children as part of his business, The Archaeological Perspective, since the early 90s.