Israel: Join an Archaeological Dig This Summer

(Above, a scene from the Galilee)

Shake out your shovel, grab a hat with a big visor and consider joining one of the many major archaeological excavations scattered throughout the land of Israel this summer.

The time is now to take advantage of the extraordinary opportunity to walk on and work in the very same soil where King David walked and where Jesus trod.

Thrills Abound!

Thrills abound: Dust! Heat! Stones! Cold showers, sometimes warm. Brains! Brawn! Romance!... to say nothing of incredible excitement of finding authentic ancient treasures such as pottery, mosaics, glass, and gold -- methodically searched and excavated --- that are thousands of years old.

The big digs offer great opportunities to travel throughout Israel, as well as to live with, work and play with other volunteers from all over the world.

Where to Dig

Digs in Israel now accepting volunteers are on the Mediterranean seashore at Tel Dor and Yavney Yam, in the green Galilee at Bethsaida, Kursi, Hippos/Sussita, Hazor and Tel Bet Yerah, in the Negev Desert at Yotvata, Har Karkom, Tel Halif, and some in and around Jerusalem at Ramat Rachel, Mount Zion, nearby in Gezer and in Jerusalem itself to name a few.

The Jan/Feb 2007 issue of the Biblical Archaeology Review Magazine has just published an article describing the scene as well as a well-developed, excellent website: www.findadig.com for a comprehensive list of current excavations and lively essays submitted by those intrepid souls who have led the way. Also indexed are many of the archaeology academic programs in the U.S. and abroad.

To know more about visiting Israel, check out www.goisrael.com.

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