Participating in an archaeological excavation is among the dreams of almost everyone who is interested in history and archeology in Turkey, and one of my dreams was to take an active part in an excavation. However, I thought that I would not be able to participate in an excavation because I did not study archaeology, art history and/or restoration. However, I could have participated… In August 2023, I voluntarily participated in the Küllüoba Mound excavation in Eskişehir for two weeks. One Is it possible to participate in an archaeological excavation voluntarily, what are the conditions, how can those who want to participate? The answers to your questions are waiting for you in this article!
It is the oldest known city settlement in Western Anatolia, where I participated in the excavation. Küllüoba Mound I suggest you take a look at my article.
How Can You Participate in an Archaeological Excavation as a Volunteer?
First of all, let me start by answering that crazy question in your mind: Yes, It is possible to participate in an archaeological excavation voluntarily.
In order to participate in any archaeological excavation carried out within the borders of Turkey under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey, you must be a student or graduate from one of the archaeology, restoration or art history departments. If you are not a student or graduate of these departments, you can participate in the excavation voluntarily if the excavation director approves your participation.
Where to Apply to Volunteer Participate in an Archaeological Excavation?
Excavation sites in Turkey that are actively excavated and accept volunteers gonulluyuzbiz.gov.tr You can reach us at and apply for the excavations and/or excavations you are interested in.
Since your excavation application will be subject to the approval of the excavation director, it will be useful to contact the excavation director in advance and introduce yourself and state why you want to participate in the excavation, so that you can stand out among other applications. You can access the list of excavation leaders with an easy Google search.
To apply at Gonulluyuzbiz.gov.tr, you must first log in to the site with your e-government password. In the application form, you need to fill in information such as your educational background, personal information, and specify the time period in which you can participate in the excavation. I stayed at the Küllüoba Excavation for about 2,5 weeks, the recommended minimum time to stay at least 5 days is to both enjoy the excavation and understand the environment.
Participating in an archaeological excavation is a great experience for those who are interested in archeology, but I must say that it is very challenging and tiring. As seen in the photos, you will not only clean the soil with a brush, you will open the soil with a pickaxe when necessary, throw soil with a shovel when necessary, and carry soil with a wheelbarrow when necessary. Since most of the excavations in our country are carried out in the summer months, you will do these works under the sun. I cannot help but point out that it requires serious physical effort and endurance.
"“What is a day like at an archaeological dig?” If you are wondering, I shared the video on my Instagram account. Excavation Log You can check out my video.