The RGS and the Institute of History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences are inviting young men and women to take part in the new season of the project on the study of the Tunnug-1 kurgan in the Republic of Tuva. From May to September 2024, the selected volunteers will explore the Scythian burial sites under the guidance of experienced archaeologists as well as gain teamwork experience in the field conditions of the expedition. Research teams of the Russian Geographical Society are systematically studying the Tunnug-1 kurgan (9th century BC). Geographically, it is part of the so-called Valley of the Kings, where there are many graves from different eras: from the Scythian period to the late Middle Ages, the Kokel culture.
By 2024, half of the main kurgan has been excavated. Scientists have established its structure, determined the place of the central burial, examined traces of mass sacrifices (skeletons of people and horses), and also discovered valuable artifacts. Experts suggest that the central burial in particular, for which the entire kurgan was built, that has not been looted. This season, research teams plan to find the inventory with which the deceased were sent to the afterlife.
In addition to working at the kurgan, there will be lectures, hiking trips to picturesque places, and visits to archaeological camps nearby arranged for the participants. There are also plans for excursions to the capital of the Republic of Tuva: the city of Kyzyl.
To participate in the expedition, you must have a personal tent. Transit to Tuva is paid for by the volunteers on their own. On the eve of the expedition, it is recommended to get vaccinated against encephalitis. Read the details and conditions of accommodation on the website. The selection of candidates and their subsequent registration is carried out by the Institute of History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
You can submit your application in the official community group.