Archaeological Tours 2019 Brochure

2019 Travels through Antiquity

archaeological tours 1

WELCOME TO 2019 “Where should I visit next year?” This question is one many of us ask ourselves when it’s time to make resolutions for the 12 months ahead, and - hopefully - our brand new collection of tours for 2019 will answer it for you. From island castles in Lithuania and enigmatic standing stones in Scotland, to rich traditions in Japan - the world is waiting...

Travel the world in the company of an expert scholar, whose knowledge and passion will illuminate every site you visit along the way. Experience the trip of a lifetime as you journey through antiquity with Archaeological Tours, encountering the stories of the past in vivid detail.

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Egypt: Pharaohs & Pyramids

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Portugal & Spain: Iberian Empires of Antiquity

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Sri Lanka: Shrines & Serendipity

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Western China: Relics of the Silk Road

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Central Mexico: Mesoamerican Mysteries

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Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia: Along the Baltic Shores

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Italy: Classical Crossroads of the Mediterranean

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Ireland: Celts, Vikings & Saints

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Japan: Temples, Treasures & Traditions

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Peru: Lost Cities of the Incas

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Tunisia & Morocco: From the Phoenicians to the Berbers

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Spain & France: In the Shadows of Ancient Artists

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Malta, Sardinia & Corsica: An Odyssey of Islands

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Scotland & its Islands: Megaliths & Mythologies

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Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan: In the Footsteps of Traders

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Greece: Myths & Monuments

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Bagan, Myanmar

To book your dream adventure, call our friendly team and we’ll do the rest...

212-986-3054 Toll-free 866-740-5130

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Armenia & Georgia: Colors & Contrasts of the Caucasus

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Discover a Different World

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Cyprus, Crete & Santorini: Ancient Aegean Kingdoms

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The Archaeological Tours Experience

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Myanmar & Cambodia: Burmese Empires & Khmer Kingdoms

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Your Booking Journey

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South India: Sanctuaries & Spices

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New Adventures for 2019

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North India: Maharajahs & Mughals

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Memorable Moments

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Maya Mexico: Secrets of the Yucatan

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Meet our Expert Scholars

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Specialist Journeys

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Booking Conditions

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DISCOVER A DIFFERENT WORLD WITH ARCHAEOLOGICAL TOURS...

Buddhist prayer, Sarnath, India

Discover the heart of your chosen destination. Travel deep in to the caves to view prehistoric rock art by flashlight, climb sacred shrines in Sri Lanka and trace the stories of ancient civilizations in Mexico, all in the company of an expert.

Woven textiles at Pisac Market, Peru

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Travelling with us ensures that you will be rewarded with a deeper insight into the archaeology and culture of these fascinating destinations. We will introduce you to working archaeologists and escort you to remote locations where little-visited sites await.

The authentic experiences don’t stop there... Try local delicacies at a ‘Yatai’ market in Japan, enjoy a sensory welcome to Uzbekistan at its vibrant bazaars and learn how a textiles center in Peru provides support to its indigenous people.

Golden Temple, Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Don’t just take our word for it...

“You provide itineraries that cover more than most companies and always provide a memorable experience. Some of the best trips of my lifetime have been with you.”

“The goal of learning by experiencing the significance of sites in the company of highly qualified teachers and researchers was achieved and deserves honors.”

“Effort made to educate and stimulate, rather than just visiting.

Sites covered by informative, welleducated guides who presented material in engaging ways.”

“Travel made easy in a country I would not tackle solo.

Accommodation was consistently great, and our tour guide and manager were most personable.”

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Explore the world in expert hands with Archaeological Tours in 2019 One of the most stressful things about taking a vacation is the planning. What time do we need to make a connection? How do we get to such a remote site?

Well, if you travel with Archaeological Tours, we take care of everything - all you need to do is lock the door behind you and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. The rest is in our hands and the experts we work with ensure that your tour will be one to remember.

We look forward to seeing you on tour soon.

Olivia Oberndorf US General Manager Shofukuji Zen Temple in Fukuoka,

“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

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1. Site of Mitla, Mexico; 2. Cave monastery, Armenia

We design our itineraries in ways that take you off the typical tourist trail, allowing you to explore places you might not get to visit independently.

Karnak Temple, Luxor, Egypt

Let us introduce you to vibrant new cultures in unique and immersive ways. We offer a taste of authenticity in each destination we visit.

Travel with expert scholars who vividly bring the past back to life. You won’t find their stories, experience of passion in a guidebook.

Traditional Chinese dishes

Weaving demonstration, Mexico

Amber Fort in Jaipur, India

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com

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From start to finish, we take care of the details so you can enjoy your tour

Once you’ve booked a vacation with Archaeological Tours, all you need to do is wait for the departure date to arrive. We’ll take the driver’s seat so that you can experience everything your destination has to offer.

What’s included in your tour?

Guide Lecturer & Tour Manager Our tours are led by expert scholars and are accompanied by experienced tour managers, taking the stress out of travel.

Meals

All breakfasts, most lunches and some dinners, as specified in the itinerary.

Wine and beer with some meals.

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Hotels

Four and five star accommodation, or the best available, which enables us to give you the best local experiences possible.

Local Transport

Private air-conditioned coaches, flights, transfers, ferries, boats and 4x4s will all be included in the price you pay.

Flights

International flights are not included, but we are happy to arrange these for you.

Internal flights however, are included.

Entries & Tips

All entrance fees and appropriate tips to site guides, drivers, waiters and porters.

Sigiriya Rock, Sri Lanka

Frequently asked questions Am I able to extend my time on one of your tours?

We design trips to ensure that the optimum number of sites can be visited in the time we feel is best for the traveler. If you wish to arrive before the departure date, or leave after, we can book your extra nights.

What’s your average group size and age range?

To ensure that you get the most out of your tour, we guarantee that no trip exceeds 24 guests, and our guests are typically over the age of 55.

Our groups offer sociability, companionship and shared experiences.

How strenuous are your tours? Do I need to be fit? *

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On all of our tours, you will be required to walk unassisted and often up to five miles per day. To find the tour that is right for you, we have created a rating for the activity level: 1* limited walking and time to relax; 2* moderate walking and long days; 3* extensive walking, challenging environments and long days, including changes in transport.

HOW TO BOOK There are several ways in which you can book a place on one of our tours. You can book online via our website, but if you prefer to book over the phone, our expert team is available to help whenever you’re ready to call.

If you have further questions about joining one of tours, please don’t hesitate to call our friendly team today.

212-986-3054 Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com 9

NEW FOR 2019 TUNISIA & MOROCCO | WESTERN CHINA | THE BALTICS A brand new brochure calls for a collection of new tours. We have designed an exciting range of itineraries that will take you from China and Morocco, to the Baltics in 2019.

Let us inspire & delight you in 2019 on one of our new tours Toll-free: 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com info@archaeological-tours.com

TUNISIA & MOROCCO • Sample a host of amazing North African delicacies • Discover collections at the Bardo and Sousse Museums • Let Marrakech’s vibrant, bustling medina enchant you • Visit imposing ruins in the UNESCO site of Carthage See full details on page 34 Ancient ruins at Carthage, Tunisia

WESTERN CHINA • Explore Bezeklik’s amazing Cave of 1,000 Buddhas • Stand before the legendary Terracotta Warriors • Tour the Mogao Cliff cave chapels, a UNESCO site • See the historic ruins of Jiaohe and Goachang citadel See full details on page 50 10

Xi’an city wall and ancient tower, China

Terracotta Warriors, China

THE BALTICS • Learn the violent history of the great Trakai lake castle • Compare the three great cathedrals of the Baltics • Take a walking tour of Estonia’s stunning capital, Tallinn • Pore over artifacts and exhibits at regional museums See full details on page 54 Trakai island and city museum, Lithuania

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com

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Life has many paths and surprising moments. So, explore new routes, enjoy the diversions and cherish the memories made along the way...

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Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Imagine going on 59 Archaeological Tours... Well, Russell Farris has.

While our 2019 itineraries don’t visit these destinations, the images reflect Russell’s tour experiences with us

What is the most memorable tour you’ve taken with us?

I’ve been on 59 tours with Archaeological Tours. The biggest surprise was visiting Ethiopia in 2012. Not expecting much, I was amazed at the ruins at Axum – some of the greatest in the world – and the incredible mountain ranges and deep valleys of two canyons, both greater than our Grand Canyon.

Ethiopia truly is the one of the great “undiscovered” tourist sites of the world.

Is there a particular destination you can’t wait to visit with us in the future?

My touring days are probably over. I am over 80 and no longer good for hiking, but please keep sending me your yearly booklet – it is an excellent publication!

What has been the highlight of traveling with Archaeological Tours over the years?

Location, location, location. Archaeological Tours has gone to sites no other organisation goes to. Combined with academic tour leaders who are wonderfully knowledgeable of the sites and historical background, their tours are some of the best I have ever found.

UNESCO World Heritage obelisks of Axum, Ethiopia

Our team members are always on hand to help you make memories that will last a lifetime... Contact our office today and speak with our expert staff: Suman Shetty Flight Manager

Rosalind Wallduck Product Manager

Sarah Bertisch Sales Exec

Melanie Samad Customer Care Exec

Steven Williams Customer Care Exec

Staci Owen Sales Exec

Toll-free: 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com

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PHARAOHS & PYRAMIDS Egypt 16 Days | February 2nd - 17th 16 Days | November 9th - 24th Feb $6,495 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $950 Nov $6,695 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,050

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The Temple of Horus, Edfu

The river Nile near Aswan

CAIRO - LUXOR - NILE CRUISE - ASWAN - CAIRO Few of life’s great travel experiences surpass the sense of awe inspired by a first encounter with Egypt’s legendary ancient monuments and archaeological sites. No preconceptions can quite prepare the first-time visitor for their scale and grandeur, nor match the enduring impact of the story they unfold.

On our rewarding tour, discover more than ancient Egyptian images, pyramids and mummies. It will especially appeal to the traveler in search of a true understanding of a civilization whose culture and heritage had such a profound influence on the ancient Greeks and Romans, as well as our own modern world. Unhurried yet comprehensive, our itinerary offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy a memorable journey through 3,000 years of history – with your knowledgeable tour leader on hand to share their insights into the discoveries that each new day brings.

Traveling the Nile on land, water and in the air from Cairo to Abu Simbel, and visiting Egypt’s most spectacular temple and pyramid complexes, both world-famous and lesser-known, our tour also features a 5-day cruise aboard a beautifully-appointed Nile cruiser; modern and luxurious, journeying along the life-giving waters of the Nile.

Tour Highlights

Expert Scholar

Explore the seldom-visited pyramid complexes at Dahshur and Abusir, where the 5th-Dynasty Pharaohs built their pyramids Visit Aswan’s beautiful Philae Temple and High Dam - and the great rock temples of Abu Simbel Travel to the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Sphinx and also the fascinating Solar Boat Museum Cruise in comfort along the Nile, visiting sites that include Kom Ombo’s rare double temple Wander through Karnak, whose vast and sprawling complex is largely dedicated to the god, Amun

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/egy

Dr. Luigi Prada is currently part of the academic staff at the Egyptology Department of the University of Oxford.

Dr. Caroline Hebron is an archaeologist specializing in Ancient Egypt. She is currently working on excavations in the Near East.

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY February 2nd or November 9th | Cairo

granted a special permit to visit the site of Abusir, where most of the 5th-Dynasty Pharaohs built their pyramids.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 3rd or November 10th | Cairo

This morning, we fly to Luxor and transfer to our hotel, selected for its excellent location on the Corniche and within walking distance of the market, museum and some of the sites. The ancient city was built on the east bank of the Nile, while the west bank was the city of the dead, mostly reserved for tombs and funerary monuments.

We will begin our exploration with a full afternoon of touring at the magnificent sanctuary of Amun-Re at Karnak. This fascinating temple’s maze of monumental gateways, obelisks, pillared halls and subsidiary shrines is reached via an avenue lined with fantastic beasts.

In the late afternoon we will visit the Luxor Museum.

All meals included.

We arrive into Cairo on Saturday and transfer to our first hotel, where we will meet for dinner.

Dinner included.

After an introductory lecture, we begin touring at Memphis, the first capital of a united Egypt, and Sakkara, its necropolis. At Sakkara, we visit the museum and tour the Step Pyramid complex of Djoser, which pre-dates the Giza pyramids and is the world’s first monumental building constructed entirely from stone. We also tour the smaller Pyramid of Teti, built for a Sixth Dynasty king, whose burial chamber is covered with pyramid texts to ensure the survival of his soul, and the mastaba tombs of the Nobles Ti and Ptahhotep.

All meals included.

February 4th or November 11th | Cairo

Touring begins at the only surviving representatives of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

We will also stop at the museum, where the remarkably preserved remains of the Solar Boat of Cheops are displayed.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 5th or November 12th | Cairo

We will spend the full morning at the Egyptian Museum, where we view the highlights of its huge collection, including the mummy room and objects from the tomb of Tutankhamun. After lunch, our first stop will be the Citadel, famed as the stronghold of Salah el-Din. The day continues with a stroll through Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, one of the largest souks in the Middle East, and ends with a walk through the warren of streets lined with fascinating architecture.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 6th or November 13th | Cairo

Today, we will trace the rapid development of the pyramids following their creation at Sakkara. At Dahshur, Snefru completed the Bent Pyramid using the lessons learned at Meydum. In the Red Pyramid, he perfected this architectural form. After lunch, we have been

Karnak Temple, Luxor

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February 7th or November 14th | Cairo - Luxor

February 8th or November 15th | Luxor

This morning, we will cross the Nile to visit the Valleys of the Kings and Queens. The tombs to be visited are those of Tutankhamun and others selected from the tombs open to the public today. We will also visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, at Deir el-Bahri, one of Egypt’s most spectacular monuments.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 9th or November 16th | Luxor

We will return to the west bank of the Nile to visit some of the hundreds of tombs of the Nobles, spread over two square miles.

These tombs are of special interest for their naturalistic murals, which give us an intimate view of life in ancient Egypt. We will also visit the ancient village of the artisans, Deir el-Medina, one of the best-preserved town sites in Egypt. In the late afternoon, we will have a specially arranged tour of the Oriental Institute’s Chicago House, where a member of the staff will tell us about their Epigraphic Survey. Since 1924, the survey has both photographed and made line drawings of the inscriptions and reliefs at major temples and tombs at Luxor.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... **

February 10th or November 17th | Luxor

Driving north through villages of baked-mud houses and lush cultivated lands bordering the Nile, we arrive in Dendera and visit the Temple of Hathor, goddess of love, music and wine. Although this temple was largely built in the first century BC, it occupies the site of a much older building. On the roof of the temple is a plaster cast of the famous Zodiac of Dendera (original in Paris), one of the three circular representations of the heavens found in Egypt. We continue to Luxor for an afternoon at leisure.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 11th or November 18th | Luxor

Our last visit to the west bank will include the Colossi of Memnon and the temples and chapels of Medinet Habu, the largest built by Ramesses III. We will explore the Ramesseum, where the fallen statue of Ramesses II inspired Percy Bysshe Shelley’s famous poem “Ozymandias.” The morning is concluded with the rarely visited tombs of Kheruef and Ankh-Hor. Returning to the East Bank, we board a deluxe Nile Cruiser, our floating hotel for the next four nights. In the late afternoon, we will explore the Temple of Luxor, including the procession of the Opet Festival and scenes of the divine conception of Amenhotep III. All meals included.

February 12th or November 19th | Luxor - Edfu

This morning will be completely at leisure. We will have time to do some more touring, explore the local souk, hire a felucca to sail on the Nile or just relax at the pool. We have lunch on the Nile Cruiser and we sail to Edfu to dock for the night.

All meals included.

February 13th or November 20th | Edfu - Aswan

We begin at the Temple of Edfu this morning, a completely preserved Ptolemaic temple of the falcon god Horus. We then have several hours to enjoy the sundeck and pool, as well as the ever-changing panorama of life along the Nile. In the late afternoon we arrive at Kom Ombo, often called the Acropolis of Egypt for its spectacular site overlooking the Nile. It is also unusual in being dedicated equally

to two gods, Horus the Elder and the crocodile god Sobek. After completing our visit, we sail on to Aswan.

All meals included.

February 14th or November 21st | Aswan

Our touring begins at the Quarries, where an unfinished obelisk remains embedded in its native stone. Our next visits are the High Dam and Philae, the Ptolemaic temple dedicated to Isis, an incredible complex of chapels and shrines as well as the last bastion of paganism in the Byzantine Empire.

All meals included.

February 15th or November 22th | Aswan

This morning we will disembark and transfer to our hotel. Touring begins at the Kalabsha Temple, built in the reign of Augustus on the site of an earlier sanctuary founded by Amenhotep II. The temple, which was later converted to a church, was dedicated to the Nubian god Mandulis, who was associated with Isis. In the same antiquities park, we will visit the relocated Graeco-Roman kiosk of Qertassi and the shrine of Ramesses II, from Beit el-Wali. Lastly, we visit the Nubia Museum. We transfer to our hotel and this evening we will meet for our farewell dinner.

Breakfast & dinner included.

February 16th or November 23rd | Aswan - Cairo

A memorable day! We fly to Abu Simbel, where the rock-cut temples of Ramesses II and his favorite queen, Nefertari, have been saved from the rising waters of the Nile resulting from the Aswan High Dam. The temples were built to honor the deified royal pair and to awe the Nubians. That awesome feeling exists today no less than it did 3,200 years ago. An afternoon flight brings us back to Cairo.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 17th or November 24th | Depart Cairo

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travels.

Tour Information Giza

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

Cairo

5 nights in Cairo: 5* 4 nights in Luxor: 5* 4 nights on Nile Cruiser: Deluxe Luxor

1 night in Aswan: 5*

Nile Cruise

1 night in Cairo: 5*

Edfu

A/C coach, Nile cruiser, regional flights: Cairo - Luxor, Aswan - Abu Simbel - Cairo

EGYPT

Kom Ombo Aswan

Abu Simbel

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/egy

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SHRINES & SERENDIPITY Sri Lanka 16 Days | February 5th - 20th $5,980 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,260

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Skyline of Colombo

Sigiriya Rock

COLOMBO - ANURADHAPURA - HABARANA - KANDY - NUWARA ELIYA - GALLE - COLOMBO Do not be deceived by Sri Lanka’s beguiling palm-fringed sands and mountain-backed natural beauty. For this exotic ‘Resplendent Isle’ can also boast another dimension to inspire those who travel in quest of enigma and antiquity.

Both are here in abundance in this legend-filled land whose multi-layered history spans 25 chronicled centuries.

Small wonder that Sri Lanka is home to some of the finest World Heritage Sites, with landmark monuments and ancient ruined cities that still stand in homage to the island’s past civilizations and cultures, their unique artifacts and archaeological treasures.

In what was one of the earliest great Buddhist kingdoms, our specialist tour focuses on the fusion of the earliest forms of Buddhism with Hindu and Animist teachings, among ethereal temples, dagoba shrines and great carved Buddhas You’ll also enjoy fascinating glimpses of long-lost kingdoms whose rulers built improbably sophisticated irrigation systems – and even a resplendent palace with gardens and pools perched atop a 600-foot rock.

With all these, our journey interweaves encounters with Sri Lanka’s vibrant tapestry of landscapes, wildlife parks sheltering elephant and sloth bears, countless colorful religious festivals and rituals - and the echoes of a more recent colonial era of tea plantations and hill-stations.

Tour Highlights Discover no less than six awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites and stunning Buddhist temples Climb up to Kasyapa’s citadel at Habarana to enjoy the unforgettable views and water garden terraces Share the road with the local elephants as we make our way along Sri Lanka’s highways Witness a unique and magical evening ‘puja’ ceremony at Kandy’s world-famous Temple of the Tooth Enjoy free time for your own exploring on a well-balanced and contrast-filled itinerary

Expert Scholar Dr. Mehreen Chida-Razvi completed her PhD in the History of Art & Archaeology at SOAS, University of London.

Her primary research examines the history of architecture and the built environment, and she has carried out extensive fieldwork in Pakistan & India. Mehreen also specializes in the history of Islamic art, architecture and material culture.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/sri

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY February 5th | Colombo

We arrive into Colombo and transfer to our first hotel where we will meet for dinner.

Dinner included.

February 6th | Colombo

After an opening lecture, touring begins at the Gothami Temple, which houses beautiful wall paintings that intricately and vibrantly depict the life of Buddha. The day comes to an end with a visit to the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, where, according to legend, the Buddha converted the earliest inhabitants of Lanka to Buddhism.

This temple is also renowned for its richly decorated walls, which include amazing murals painted by two well-known modern artists, Solias Mendis and George Keyt.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 7th | Colombo - Anuradhapura

We leave Colombo, arriving in Anuradhapura for lunch. This area boasts a wealth of evocative sites and, this afternoon, we pay a visit to Mihintale, which was the site of the island’s first Buddhist sermon and first conversion of a long line of kings. In 247 BC, King Devanampiya Tissa was hunting on Mihintale Hill, where he was approached by the son of an Indian Buddhist emperor, who deemed him a worthy disciple and converted him. Later, we transfer to our hotel.

All meals included.

February 8th | Anuradhapura - Habarana

Our day begins at the ancient city of Anuradhapura, royal capital from the late 5th century BC, until it was sacked and burned by Chola Tamils in 993. The power of the Sinhalese kings was then transferred to Polonnaruwa. It will take us the full day to examine the remains of 15 centuries of continuous occupation. As we stroll among the ancient buildings we will be awed by the huge dimensions of the three dagobas of the oldest periods and charmed by the unique architecture and moonstone thresholds of its monasteries and temples. We will also visit the site museum, which displays the sculptures, bas-reliefs and other precious artifacts from the site.

All meals included.

Tea pickers, Sri Lanka

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February 9th | Habarana

The story of King Kasyapa’s retreat to his palace, built 600 feet above the surrounding forest on the rock of Sigiriya, is filled with intrigue, murder, revenge and suicide. It took him seven years to build his citadel and its spectacular gardens, pools and pavilions, designed to blend with the natural landscape. This extraordinary complex is no less beautiful today than it was in the 5th century BC. We shall climb Kasyapa’s citadel slowly, stopping to enjoy the water garden terraces, the famous “Sigiriya maidens” painted in a rock gallery, and the magnificent views. Sigiriya Museum too. After a full morning of activity, we have the afternoon at leisure. Choose to take the time to continue exploring or unwind before dinner this evening.

All meals included.

February 10th | Habarana

We will spend the full day at the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa.

A series of great builders - including Vijayabahu I (1055-1110), builder of the first Temple of the Tooth, and Parakramabahu (115386), who built a vast numbers of dams, reservoirs and canals - have provided us with a magnificent, archaeologically rich site that boasts acres of unique architectural elements, delicately engraved columns and wonderful friezes. A tour of the new site museum will end this fabulous and interesting day.

All meals included.

February 11th | Habarana

This morning we will visit the huge Aukana Buddha, which stands at over 40 feet tall, and the massive 4th-century BC reservoir at Kala Wewa, built by King Datusena in 307 BC. We then continue to the great rock temple of Dambulla. The easy ascent rewards us greatly as we will be able to stand before magnificent cave temples that are boldly decorated with paintings and effigies carved out of the living rock. The remainder of our afternoon will be spent at leisure. For those of us who have always wanted to try an elephant trek, our hotel will make the arrangements for this afternoon. An alternative option might be a guided walk in the nearby nature reserve to study medicinal plants and wildlife.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... ***

February 12th | Habarana - Kandy

En route to Kandy we will stop to visit Aluvihare, the site where the Buddhist doctrine Tripitaka was finally written down on talipot palm leaves. After viewing the cave temple’s graphic depictions of what awaits sinners, we have arranged an informal discussion about Sri Lankan Buddhism with the chief monk of this important temple.

We will also visit a spice garden and stop for lunch at a charming restaurant created by a popular folk artist. Touring continues in Kandy at the Anglican Cathedral. This evening we will visit the Temple of the Tooth at the time of the puja, or prayer offerings.

All meals included.

February 13th | Kandy

Touring today begins at three temples of the Kandyan era: Gadaladeniya Viharaya, with its strong southern Indian influences reminiscent of the Hindu art of Vijayanagar, Lankatilaka Viharaya, and finally Kataragama Devale, which is famed for its carved wooden pillars. We then continue to the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage for lunch in a restaurant that overlooks the elephants’ favorite bathing hole. We return to Kandy with ample time to visit a batik workshop and then we have some free time in town.

All meals included.

February 14th | Kandy - Nuwara Eliya

Before leaving Kandy, we will visit the lovely Peradeniya Botanic Gardens, home to more than 4,000 species including orchids, palm trees and plants used for medicinal purposes. Our drive to Nuwara Eliya is along the edge of a lush highland landscape carpeted with verdant tea estates. We will stop to sample the famed Ceylon teas and learn the secrets of fermenting and processing the tea leaves. Tonight, will be spent in Nuwara Eliya, a former British hill station.

All meals included.

February 15th | Nuwara Eliya - Galle

En route to Galle we will stop at Mulkirigala Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple built on a 673 ft high natural rock. Afterwards, we will arrive in Galle and check into our lovely hotel.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 16th | Galle

Today, we will pay a visit the Martin Wikramasinghe Folk Museum for an excellent overview of traditional life in Sri Lanka. We then tour the historical center of Galle, including its ramparts and fort, as well as the National Marine Museum and the Marine Archaeological Project.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 17th | Galle

We spend this morning at leisure so we can enjoy the pristine beach of the resort, or perhaps visit the “Lunuganga” Bawa gardens, a landscaping marvel. We enjoy lunch together overlooking the sea, and later, experience a private performance of the Kolam Dance.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 18th | Galle - Colombo

On our way back to Colombo, we stop at Ambalangoda, known for its wooden mask craftsmen, arriving into Colombo for lunch at the Mount Lavinia Hotel. This evening we have the possibility to attend the annual (at the full moon in February) Navam Perahera Festival at Gangaramaya temple. The very colorful parade features fabulously decorated elephants, dancers, musicians and other performers.

The temple structures also include the Simamalaka Shrine, which was designed by Bawa.

Breakfast & lunch included.

February 19th | Colombo

We begin our day visiting the small collection of archaeological and ethnographic material in the National Museum. After lunch, the afternoon is at leisure. We then come together for a farewell dinner in the city.

All meals included.

February 20th | Depart Colombo

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information

Anuradhapura

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

Habarana

2 nights in Colombo: 5*

1 night in Nuwara Eliya: 4*

1 night in Anuradhapura: 4*

3 nights in Galle: 5*

4 nights in Habarana: 5*

2 nights in Colombo: 5*

Kandy

Colombo

Nuwara Eliya

2 nights in Kandy: 4*

A/C coach

Sri Lanka

Galle

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/sri

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MESOAMERICAN MYSTERIES Central Mexico 14 Days | March 2nd - 15th $5,995 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,150

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Pyramid of the Sun, Teotihuacรกn

Colorful colonial street in downtown Puebla

MEXICO CITY - TEOTIHUACAN - POZA RICA - XALAPA - PUEBLA - OAXACA You do not always have to cross oceans and continents to discover the world’s finest archaeological sites.

Despite its relatively modest distances, this journey through the lands of the ancient indigenous civilizations of Mesoamerica crosses frontiers of time into lost pre-Columbian worlds whose dramatic history and great monuments can fire the imagination today as powerfully as any other further afield.

For archaeology-enthusiast travelers, the fascination of our tour will be rooted primarily in the almost mystical legacy left by the fabulous Aztec Empire and its influential Toltec and Olmec predecessors, vividly recorded in tales of the grandeur of Tenochtitlan, their island capital. The mighty Aztec culture and highly organized society remained dominant for 200 years – only to be brought to a sudden and violent end in the 16th century by the Spanish conquistadors. Traveling south, we also visit a panorama of provincial towns, each built upon regional cultural traditions with ancient pre-Aztec roots – none more impressive than the vast Zapotec site of Monte Alban.

Mexico’s days of gold-bedecked warriors in resplendent headdress may have long vanished but its distinctive cultural heritage still finds vibrant expression in a wealth of lively festivals, markets and craft and mural-painting skills.

Tour Highlights Trace the story of the ancient civilizations of the Aztec, Toltec, Olmec, Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations amid the wide horizons of central Mexico Stroll through legendary Teotihuacan - ‘birthplace of the gods’ - and explore the awesome Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon Uncover the elaborately carved reliefs etched into the columns and frieze at El Tajín, among Mexico’s most important Classic-era sites Enjoy a remarkable performance of the Danza de las Voladores de Papantla, a dizzying high-flying ritual dance Journey through jungle-clad ruins and immerse yourself into the rich culture and heritage of Mesoamerican Mexico

Expert Scholar Dr. William Saturno received his BA from the University of Arizona and his PhD from Harvard University. He has conducted research in Mexico, Belize, Honduras and Guatemala. From 1994 to 2000 he was the field director of the Rio Amarillo Archaeology Project, studying the ancient sociopolitical relationships between Maya cities.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/mec

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY March 2nd | Mexico City

We arrive in the vast metropolis of Mexico City and transfer to our first hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax after our flight, before coming together for dinner as a group.

Dinner included.

March 3rd | Mexico City

We spend the full day at Museo Nacional de Antropología, one of the finest museums of its type and the most visited in Mexico.

The Museum contains one of the world’s largest collections of archaeological and anthropological artifacts from pre-Hispanic Mayan civilizations to the Spanish conquest. The building itself is surrounded by a huge pond, a courtyard and a large concrete umbrella. The site demands more than a flying visit, so we take our time to explore its many halls before. We pause for lunch and afterwards, we see the famous Stone of the Sun, thought to be a 16thcentury Aztec calendar, or the colossal Olmec heads: giant prehistoric sculptures that easily dwarf those who come to see them.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 4th | Mexico City

An early start sees us driving north to the wonderfully preserved pyramid site of Tula, which reached its height as the capital of the Toltec Empire between the fall of Teotihuacán and the rise of Tenochtitlan. The feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl is linked to this city, whose worship was widespread from central Mexico to Central America. As we explore the Temple de Tlahuizcalpantecuhtli, atop which stand the giant basalt figures representing Quetzalcoatl dressed as a Toltec warrior, we will try to unravel the many legends that surround the city. We enjoy lunch in Tula, before returning to Mexico City to spend the afternoon in the city’s central square and surrounding streets. The Zocalo, the political and religious heart of the city, was once the site of an Aztec ceremonial center, and remains an exciting hub of activity and outstanding architecture.

All meals included.

March 5th | Mexico City

This morning we return to the Zócalo, for an in-depth look at

Toltec Warrior Sculptures, Tula

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Templo Mayor – a site considered to be the center of the Aztec universe. In its 15th-century opening ceremony alone, some 4,000 prisoners were offered to the gods as human sacrifices. The temple was destroyed by the Spanish in 1521 in order to pave the way for the new cathedral. We find further echoes of colonial destruction amid the tranquility of the nearby National Palace, where we view the vast murals of Diego Rivera’s highly-politicized series, The History of Mexico. Following lunch at the Zócalo, the afternoon is left free for us to wander the rest of the center at our leisure. Step into the city’s cathedral, explore the bustling shops and boutiques, or marvel at some of the lop-sided buildings which are slowly subsiding into the marshy ground beneath the capital.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 6th | Mexico City - Teotihuacán

We depart for Tlatelolco this morning, a ruined Aztec city at which a mass grave dating from the Spanish conquest was unearthed in 2009.

Around 50 bodies have so far been found here, with analysis and accompanying artifacts suggestive of a group of warriors.

Afterwards, we continue on to Teotihuacán, known as the “place of the gods.” Teotihuacán appeared between the years 200 and 150 BC and reached its highpoint of development between 300 and 600 AD, when it was the most influential political, religious and cultural power in Meso-America. We begin to take in its highlights before checking into our nearby hotel and catching up over dinner.

All meals included.

March 7th | Teotihuacán

Today is devoted to Teotihuacán, starting with visits to the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, Temple of the Sun, and Temple of the Moon – three world-renowned structures located alongside the intriguinglynamed Avenue of the Dead. In the afternoon our tour continues, and includes a stop at the Mural Museum, which showcases dazzling original murals which have been recovered over a period of more than a century, and it also includes reconstructions from the site.

Later we have free time to wander this ancient landscape at our leisure or relax at our hotel just outside of the site.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... *

March 8th | Teotihuacán - Poza Rica

Our day begins with a scenic drive east to El Tajín, the “sacred city of the god of thunder,” one of the most important in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. We explore the site in-depth, including the spectacular Pyramid of Niches. After exploring the amazing jungle ruins and touring the informative exhibits of the site’s modern museum, we round off our day by watching the Voladores de Papantla, poleflying Totonac dancers who will wow us with their gravity defying performances.

All meals included.

March 9th | Poza Rica - Xalapa

This morning we drive to Xalapa, home to the University of Veracruz, the city is renowned for Neoclassical buildings and lively cultural life. Here we visit the fabulous Museo de Antropologia de Xalapa, considered to be the second-best museum in Mexico, which houses 3,000 archaeological finds. The museum’s centerpiece is the 17 colossal Olmec heads from San Lorenzo and the museum itself is also home to a 40,000 square foot garden.

All meals included.

March 10th | Xalapa - Puebla

After breakfast we travel to Cantona, a breath-taking archaeological site and the largest city to be discovered in Mesoamerica. During our tour we discover multiple ball courts, a series of small pyramids, a network of cobbled roads, and residences. Pausing for a local lunch, we resume our journey with a drive down to Puebla City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site best known for its ornate colonial cathedral.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 11th | Puebla

This morning we head for Cacaxtla, famed for its intricate painted murals, most notably the “Battle Mural.” After lunch, we explore Museo Amparo, a superb historical museum charting the development of Mexico from the prehistoric. Later, we continue to Barrio del Artista and come across an ever-changing outdoor exhibition. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 12th | Puebla - Oaxaca

We leave Puebla this morning and drive to Oaxaca – a long but thrilling ride south, punctuated by stops along the way. Arriving in the afternoon, we begin with a visit to the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, a set of engaging exhibitions. We pay particular attention to the Miztec hoard retrieved from Tomb 7 in nearby Monte Albán, a dazzling royal display of jewels, carved bone and crystal goblets. The rest of our day is free to spend at our leisure, take the time to explore the city further, soak in the cultural atmosphere or relax at the hotel.

All meals included.

March 13th | Oaxaca

This morning we rise for a trip to the tombs of Yagul, one of only four attractions declared to be Natural Monuments by the Mexican government. At Yagul we find a verdant, sprawling site, occupied from around 500 BC until the time of the Spanish conquest. After lunch we proceed to Mitla, a location renowned for its elaborate mosaics and fretwork. Evidence suggests that Mitla was an important religious center for the Zapotec people and was home to a high priest.

Our day continues at Teotitlán del Valle, where we are privileged to view a demonstration of local weaving techniques. We return to Oaxaca later this afternoon.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 14th | Oaxaca

Our final morning begins with a trip to Monte Albán. For almost a thousand years, this site was the prosperous socio-political center of the Zapotecs. Today its impressive collection of ruins makes it one of the country’s top archaeological destinations. While here we also explore the site’s museum, which displays finds from the complex, including original stone carvings. Next we travel back to Oaxaca for a free afternoon. Dip into its lively local markets, discover the charms of its finest churches, or rest in a shady corner of the Zócalos. We reunite this evening for a farewell dinner at our hotel.

All meals included.

March 15th | Depart Oaxaca

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information

Pozo Rica

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

Teotihuacán Mexico City

Xalapa

Puebla

4 nights in Mexico City: 5*

2 nights in Puebla: 4*

2 nights in Teotihuacán: 4*

3 nights in Oaxaca: 4*

1 night in Poza Rica: 4* 1 night in Xalapa: 4* Oaxaca

A/C coach

Mexico

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/mec

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CLASSICAL CROSSROADS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN Sicily & Southern Italy $x,xxx (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $x,xxx

15 Days | March 10th - 24th 15 Days | October 13th - 27th Mar $7,250 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,300 Oct $7,750 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,650

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Greek Theater of Taormina

Mount Vesuvius through the ruins of Pompeii

PALERMO - MARSALA - AGRIGENTO - SYRACUSE - TAORMINA - PAESTUM - NAPLES Between them, the island of Sicily, just 190 miles north of Africa, and mainland Southern Italy are home to some of the Old World’s grandest, most beautiful and certainly best-preserved Classical archaeological sites. Their wealth of historic monuments, many built on a colossal scale, commemorate the turbulent sequences of discovery, conquest, colonization and decline that successive invaders brought to an area that is today one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating cultural melting-pots.

Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Saracens and Normans each left their mark in turn amid a legacy of columned temples, villas, aqueducts, theaters, castles and cathedrals. To this unique heritage later periods of French, Spanish and Austrian control have each added cultural influences of their own.

Under the guidance of our specialist leader the many world-class sites we will explore on our tour span Agrigento’s Greek temples, the Roman amphitheater at Syracuse, Casale’s late-Roman mosaics and (on the mainland) Paestum’s Doric temples, the especially compelling ruins of Pompeii – and many more. Our journey adds the enjoyment of travel through sunlit Mediterranean landscapes where vines and olives flourish, and enriched by the many pleasures of today’s Italy, its welcoming lifestyle and irresistible cuisine.

Tour Highlights

Expert Scholar

Gain intriguing insights into some of the Mediterranean’s most imposing Classical archaeological sites as well as others lesser-known but no less memorable Wander the haunting ruins of Pompeii & Herculaneum – destroyed by Mount Vesuvius 2,000 years ago and still eerily intact Relax amid the beautiful waterside settings of medieval Taormina and charming Cefalù Marvel at Reggio Calabria’s Riace Warriors – iconic life-sized Greek bronze statues rescued from the sea Enjoy scenic drives through some of Sicily’s most spectacular hill and massif scenery

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/sic

Prof. Caroline Malone is a professor of Prehistory at Queen’s University, Belfast and her interests include island archaeology.

Dr. Dirk Booms is curator of Roman archaeology at the British Museum, whose areas of specialty are Roman architecture,

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY March 10th or October 13th | Palermo

Upon arrival in beautiful Palermo, we will be greeted at the airport and transferred on to our hotel. This evening, we can enjoy our first dinner together as a group.

Dinner included.

March 11th or October 14th | Palermo

After a stop to see a Phoenician necropolis, we continue to picturesque Cefalù to visit its Cathedral and to stroll around its charming town before sitting down to a seaside lunch. The full afternoon is spent in Monreale, where we visit the single most important Norman monument on the island, the Cathedral and its cloisters. We then make our return to Palermo for dinner on our own in one of the city’s fantastic trattorias.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 12th or October 15th | Palermo

This morning, our visits begin at La Zisa, a Norman-Arab mansion housing the Museum of Islamic Art. We then continue to view Palermo Cathedral before sitting down to eat and rest at a local restaurant. After lunch, we view the magnificent Byzantine mosaics in the Cappella Palatina, one of the oldest Palermitan churches and a wonderful example of Norman-Saracenic art. Lastly, we visit the Archaeological Museum, where the Salone di Selinunte contains a fantastic array of architectural sculpture from the Greek temples of the Archaic period.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 13th or October 16th | Palermo - Marsala

A lovely drive through the countryside brings us to Segesta, where a pretty Doric temple and Greek theater are nestled between the mountains. Although unfinished, this temple’s 36 columns, entablature and pediment are all intact. In the afternoon, we visit the island of San Pantaleo to tour the Phoenician site of Motya. The museum houses an outstanding statue in charioteer dress dating to the 5th century BC. The day ends at the Marsala Museum, renowned for its reconstructed Phoenician ship.

All meals included.

Cappella Palatina, Palermo

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March 14th or October 17th | Marsala - Agrigento

Our first stop today is the Museo del Satiro in the church of Sant’Egidio. Here we view the bronze statue known as the Dancing Satyr of Mazara del Vallo. Although it is thought to date to the 3rd or 2nd century BC, many attribute it to Praxiteles. Our touring then continues at Cusa, site of stone quarries used in the construction of the temples of Selinunte. We next visit Selinunte, the westernmost of the Hellenic colonies and a bitter rival of Segesta. It was sacked by the Carthaginians and then completely destroyed by earthquakes.

Nevertheless, the temples of Selinunte are quite magnificent. After lunch, we complete our touring at the Western Acropolis and drive on to Agrigento (ancient Akragas), founded by colonists from nearby Gela in 581 BC. All meals included.

March 15th or October 18th | Agrigento

This wonderful day begins at the National Museum, with its reconstruction of the Atlas-like Telamones and outstanding collection of vases. We continue to the Oratory of Phalaris and the Hellenistic and Roman Quarters. Next we visit the temples of Akragas, a designated and deserving UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We begin with Hercules, the oldest and one of the most beautifully preserved temples of Concordia and Hera, which is dramatically set on the edge of the ridge. Crossing into the western zone of the site, we will view the remains of the largest known Doric temple, the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 16th or October 19th | Agrigento - Syracuse

Our day begins with a lovely drive into Sicily’s hilly interior to the Greek city of Morgantina, which was excavated by Princeton University. After lunch, we drive to the restored Roman Villa Imperiale at Casale, where fine mosaics of the Roman-African school date from the 4th century. This fabulous villa was the summer home of an important person, possibly Maximianus Herculeus, co-emperor with Diocletian. The many rooms of exquisite mosaic floors include a famous hunt scene; a scene of ten maidens in bikinis participating in gymnastics, and an array of mythological scenes. We then continue

This tour has a physical rating of... ** to Syracuse, settled by Corinthians in 733 BC. It was the island’s most powerful city for two hundred years until defeated by the Romans in 215 BC. All meals included.

March 17th or October 20th | Syracuse

the finest bronze statues from the Greek world. We then begin a spectacular drive through the Sila Massif, covered with Italy’s most extensive forest of pine, evergreen, oak and beech, which brings us to our hotel in Paestum.

Breakfast & dinner included.

March 21st or October 24th | Paestum - Naples

Touring this morning begins with a visit to the fine collection of Greek marbles at the Regional Museum. Afterwards, we will explore the Neapolis Archaeological Park, with its wealth of remains, including a Roman amphitheater, an enormous altar of the 3rd century BC known as the Altar of Hieron II, the “Ear of Dionysius” quarry, and a Greek theater, which once held around 15,000 people and is carved out of the living rock. Our touring continues with a walking tour in the Old City, visiting the temple of Athena, now incorporated into the Cathedral, and the Fountain of Arethuse, famed in Greek poetry.

Breakfast & lunch included.

This morning we drive to ancient Paestum to tour its well-preserved Doric temples and extensive ruins of the ancient city. We will also visit the excellent site museum, which displays an important group of tomb paintings, including the mural paintings from the “Tomb of the Diver.” This afternoon we continue north to visit Herculaneum, sister city to Pompeii, also buried by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.

Herculaneum was a small residential town; its villas and shops are better preserved than those at Pompeii. We will then make the short drive to Naples and our well-situated hotel.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 18th or October 21st | Syracuse - Taormina

March 22nd or October 25th | Naples

We explore the Euryalus Castle, the largest military construction in the Greek world. One could imagine Archimedes standing here with one of his fabulous devices defending the fort. After our visit, we drive along the coast to the charming medieval town of Taormina, arriving in time for lunch. This afternoon we will visit Taormina’s famous Greek theater. The panoramic views of the coastline and snow-capped Mt. Etna are magnificent from this beautiful 3rd century BC theater.

All meals included.

March 19th or October 22nd | Taormina

Today will be completely at leisure to take an excursion to Mt. Etna, relax at the beach or explore this beautiful resort town.

Breakfast included.

March 20th or October 23rd | Taormina - Paestum

We depart early for the Messina ferry to Reggio Calabria. A high point of the tour is our visit to the National Museum to view the spectacular “Riace Warriors,” found in the Ionian Sea and considered

We spend today touring Pompeii, an ancient city destroyed by Vesuvius in AD79. Over two thousand years later, the remarkably preserved villas and wall paintings are the most renowned to have survived from the Roman period. This evening we will gather for our farewell dinner.

Breakfast & dinner included.

March 23rd or October 26th | Naples

The tour ends with a visit to the National Museum. This excellent museum is home to the Farnes collection of antiquities including the imperial-era Farnese Bull; the Farnese Hercules from the Baths of Caracalla in Rome; and a collection of remarkably preserved mosaics.

We will see the wonderful wall paintings and mosaics from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Although one could spend the whole day here, we have planned for a full afternoon at leisure.

Breakfast included.

March 24th or October 27th | Depart Naples

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information Naples

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 3 nights in Palermo: 4*

2 nights in Taormina: 4*

1 night in Marsala: 5*

1 night in Paestum: 4*

2 nights in Agrigento: 4*

3 nights in Naples: 4*

Pompeii Paestum

2 nights in Syracuse: 4*

Palermo Taormina

Marsala Arigento

A/C coach, ferry

Italy

Syracuse

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/sic

29

TEMPLES, TREASURES & TRADITIONS Japan 16 Days | March 22nd - 6th April $9,270 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,600

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Kumanoto Castle, Japan

City skyline with Sakurajima Volcano, Kagoshima

TOKYO - FUKUOKA - BEPPU - MIYAZAKI - KAGOSHIMA - NAGASAKI - SAGA - OSAKA Still relatively little-known to Western travelers – a legacy of an isolationist society virtually closed to the outside world until the 19th century – Japan’s archaeological heritage today yields an excitingly ‘different’ perspective on the complex mosaic of mankind’s early history. The country’s many state-of-the-art museums and governmentsponsored excavations (including the huge Yoshinogari site dating back over 2,000 years) are testimony to the scale and diversity of Japan’s rich cultural inheritance.

After an introductory visit to Tokyo’s world-class National Museum on Honshu island, we focus upon the archaeology of mountainous Kyushu (meaning ‘nine provinces’), most south-westerly and third largest of the country’s four main islands and the closest to continental Asia. Volcanoes, lush forests, beaches and hot springs provide a vivid backdrop to a journey of discovery throughout which the Japanese people’s ancient origins, their flamboyant traditions and enigmatic religions are expertly interpreted for you by our specialist tour leader.

From Shinto shrines and Zen Buddhist temples to ruined castles and restored Dutch houses, serene Japanese gardens to lively moonlit night markets, this is a fulfilling itinerary on which even the everyday can bring its own fascination and surprises. It also provides the bonus of springtime travel in perhaps the most beautiful of Japan’s seasons.

Tour Highlights Visit Kyushu island’s beautiful ‘other-worldly’ forest temples and formidable medieval castles Travel back to the Japan of bygone eras at expertly preserved and reconstructed archaeological sites like Yoshinogari – and Uenohara Savor the sounds, smells, and tastes of Fukuoka’s evening Yatai street market with its open-air food stalls and local delicacies Learn how Japan first opened up to the outside world, viewing Dutch merchants’ houses and Chinese Buddhist temples Explore the intriguing historic quarters and the authentic Samurai warriors’ houses in Kitsuki

Expert Scholar Dr. Ilona Bausch is a Visiting Professor at Kokugakuin University, Tokyo. Ilona specializes in the archaeology of the Japanese Jomon period, particularly with regard to early trade, social interaction, rituals and worldview among prehistoric foraging peoples. Ilona is also researching the earliest use of jade in China, Korea, East Siberia and Japan, and its role in long-distance interaction between different communities.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/jap

31

YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY March 22nd | Tokyo

We arrive in Tokyo and transfer to our first hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax after our flight, before coming together for our welcome dinner.

Dinner included.

March 23rd | Tokyo

We begin our first full day of the tour with an opening lecture from our expert scholar. Following this we head out to the National Museum, where we spend the rest of the morning viewing some of the thousands of Japanese artworks and artifacts housed on site.

After pausing for lunch, we visit the Imperial Palace East Garden, an immaculate expanse of moats, lawns, ponds and plantings dating back to the 17th century, when this spot was the site of Edo Castle.

If we are lucky, we may even see the cherry blossom start to bloom.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 24th | Tokyo - Fukuoka

This morning we have a short flight to the island of Kyushu. Upon arrival we drive to the city of Dazaifu, a regional capital during the Nara period. After lunch, we explore Dazaifu Tenman-gū — a majestic Shinto shrine dedicated to the spirit of Sugawara no Michizane, a revered 10th-century poet and scholar. Our next stop is the Kanzeon-ji Temple, home to various artifacts. We round off the afternoon at the Kyushu Historical Museum, where we find numerous remains unearthed from local excavations.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 25th | Fukuoka

Our fourth day begins at Yoshinogari, a large Yayoi Period archaeological site dating from around 300 BC to 300 AD, featuring reconstructed prehistoric dwellings. Many fascinating objects have been found here, including ancient bronze mirrors and iron weapons.

After taking lunch on site, we continue to Onta, a village famed for its traditional pottery. Onta’s most famous export is still made here in the traditional fashion. Its mountainous clay is prepared by waterpowered hammers and baked in wood-fired kilns.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine, Fukuoka

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March 26th | Fukuoka

We start today at the Fukuoka City Museum, where permanent exhibits present the history of the city, and the people who have made their lives here. Next, we take a stroll in the scenic Ohori Park, and admire the nearby ruins of Fukuoka Castle. Following lunch, we continue on to the Asian Art Museum, where innovative exhibitions showcase modern and contemporary works from a number of Asian cultures. Our final visit is to the Shōfuku-ji Zen temple, a highly significant landmark. This evening we browse the city’s famous Yatai - open air food stalls selling a wide variety of local delicacies.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 27th | Fukuoka - Beppu

After breakfast we drive east to Usa Jingū, a prestigious and expansive Shinto shrine surrounded by primeval forest. Founded in the 8th century, the shrine has strong imperial links, and continues to attract a large number of pilgrims from all corners of the country.

We spend our afternoon touring the intriguing historic quarters of Kitsuki, a small castle town famed for its samurai districts, with authentic samurai houses still open to be explored. The town also contains a sake brewery, which dates from the Edo Period and continues to be used today.

All meals included.

March 28th | Beppu

Today we embark on a full and exciting day of temple visits, beginning with those on the Kunisaki Peninsula. As part of our tour we visit enigmatic Futago-ji, nestling in the forested slopes of Mount Futago; elegant Fuki-ji, the oldest wooden structure in Kyushu, dating from around 718 AD, and Kumano Magaibutsu, home to the largest stone carvings of Buddha in Japan. We also enter Makioto Temple, where we view a collection of precious wooden statues rescued from the fire which ravaged the original temple building some 700 years ago.

All meals included.

March 29th | Beppu - Miyazaki

We depart for Saitobaru Kofungun, a site in Saito city comprising of hundreds of tumuli (or kofun) – burial mounds for some of the area’s

This tour has a physical rating of... ** most prestigious figures. Thought to date from between the 4th and 7th centuries, this is one of the largest sites of its type in Japan and is well worth a detailed visit. Later we continue to the city of Miyazaki, where we spend our evening pleasantly located between the mountains and the coast.

All meals included.

Glover Garden, home to Japan’s oldest extant Western-style house.

This afternoon we enjoy some free time to spend in the city, choose to explore by yourself or join an optional visit to the fascinating Atomic Bomb Museum.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 30th | Miyazaki - Kagoshima

Today we head to Kyushu Ceramic Museum, enabling us to get up close to some of the finest 17th century Hizen porcelain. Next we make our way to Arita to visit the site of one of the oldest kilns in all of Japan. Moving on to Imari, we find Okawachiyama Pottery Village, where Japanese porcelain has its earliest roots – this being an area rich in kaolin, an essential material in the porcelain-making process.

We see many skilled craftsmen hard at work in the village, with over 30 traditional businesses still in operation. Tonight, we stay in Saga, a city bordering the lush Sefuri Mountains.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Today’s journey takes us east through mountain forests to Uenohara, where a series of Jōmon-era pit dwellings were discovered by construction workers in 1997. We continue to Kagoshima, a friendly seaside city overlooked by the majestic Sakurajima Volcano. Here we find Iso-teien, a formal garden originally created for Shimazu Mitsuhisa, the region’s ruler in the 17th century. Our final visit of the day is to Shoko Shudeikan, a 19th-century factory-turned-museum.

All meals included.

March 31st | Kagoshima - Nagasaki

We spend our morning in Kumamoto, a city that surrounds the imposing Kumamoto-jo Castle. Both sustained damage in the April 2016 earthquakes, but the castle remains one of Japan’s largest forts, there is much to admire whilst reconstruction continues. This afternoon we take a reviving ferry ride across the Ariake Sea to Nagasaki, to our next hotel, and our home for the next three nights.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 1st | Nagasaki

Our entire day is spent exploring the reconstructed site of Deshima Island. It was originally created in Nagasaki Bay in order to house and contain Portuguese traders. Deshima became redundant only when commercial relations with the Western world were relaxed. Here we view an assortment of restored Dutch houses and Chinese Buddhist temples – an extraordinary window on to Japan’s isolationist past.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 2nd | Nagasaki

We continue our exploration of Nagasaki today and our morning visits include the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture, and

April 3rd | Nagasaki - Saga

April 4th | Saga - Fukuoka

We travel to Yame for a visit to the Traditional Craftwork Center.

The attraction displays and sells traditional Yame City handicrafts, ranging from Buddhist altars to delicate paper lanterns. We return to Fukuoka, where there will be time to unwind and take things at our own pace. Visit the city’s exquisite boutiques, enter some of the local temples, or stroll through one of the traditional Japanese gardens.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 5th | Fukuoka - Osaka

Kitakyushu’s modern Municipal Museum of Art has been home to masterpieces of Japanese art since opening its doors in 1974, displaying them alongside certain pieces from Western artists. We explore its exhibits this morning before taking the bullet train, from Kokura Station. We head directly to Osaka, a city affectionately known as the “nation’s kitchen”, where we enjoy a farewell dinner.

All meals included.

April 6th | Depart Osaka

We transfer to Kansai airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tokyo

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

Osaka

2 nights in Tokyo: 4*

3 nights in Nagasaki: 3*

3 nights in Fukuoka: 4*

1 night in Saga: 4*

2 nights in Beppu: 4*

1 night in Fukuoka: 4*

1 night in Miyazaki: 4*

1 night in Osaka: 5*

1 night in Kagoshima: 4*

Fukuoka

Saga

Beppu

Nagasaki

A/C coach, ferry, bullet train.

Regional flight: Tokyo - Fukuoka

Miyazaki Kagoshima

Japan

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/jap

33

FROM THE PHOENICIANS TO THE BERBERS Tunisia & Morocco 15 Days | March 25th - 8th April $4,950 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $985

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The ancient Muslim cemetery across from the mosque in Kairouan, Tunisia

Courtyard at El Bahia Palace, Marrakech

TUNIS - KAIROUAN - TUNIS - RABAT - FES - MARRAKECH Although near-neighbors and unmistakably North African (albeit with an occasional Mediterranean twist), when it comes to culture and character Tunisia and Morocco share as many differences as resemblances. Both, though, have intricately tangled histories of conquest and colonization – and a rich heritage forged over millennia from epic events and a heady fusion of Phoenician, Carthaginian, Roman, Arab, Berber and European influences.

Embracing northern Tunisia’s major archaeological and historical sites and museums, our study tour includes a full day amid the splendors of ancient Carthage, founded by the Phoenicians in the 9th century BC and today a World Heritage Site - as is the Roman city of Dougga, also visited. Other tour highlights include the desert city of Kairouan, a holy pilgrimage center renowned for its magnificent Great Mosque and bustling medina, and the National Bardo Museum, a Tunisian heritage landmark.

Bounded by the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, the high Atlas Mountains and vast Sahara, Morocco’s dramatic landscapes and often remote kasbahs and ksour are the preserve of a vibrant 6,000-years-old legacy derived from Berber, Arab and European dynasties and cultures. We focus on medieval Islamic Morocco’s colorful Imperial Cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fes and Marrakech, as well as the excavations of Volubilis, the Roman Empire outpost at the heart of the ancient Roman-Berber kingdom of Mauretania.

Tour Highlights Travel back to the 9th century BC amid the imposing ruins of the Phoenicians’ capital city of Carthage, one of Africa’s most renowned World Heritage Sites Delve into Tunisia’s rich culture and history at the excellent National Bardo Museum, housing the country’s most important antiquities Be entertained in Marrakech by the musicians, jugglers, storytellers and snake charmers of famous Jemaa el Fna square Discover Morocco’s ancient links with Rome at the ruined site of Volubilis, a thriving city 2,000 years ago Enjoy opportunities to trial a host of delicious North African cuisines – and for shopping for handicraft items in ancient souks

Expert Scholar Dr. Caroline Goodson is University Senior Lecturer with the Faculty of History, University of Cambridge. She holds her degrees from Columbia University (Ph.D.), Istituto Internavionale di Studi Liguri, Bordighera, and the Rhode Island School of Design. Dr. Goodson is also a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/tum

35

YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY March 25th | Tunis

We arrive in Tunis and transfer to our first hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax after our flight, before enjoying our first group dinner together.

Dinner included.

March 26th | Tunis

Our day will be spent at the site of Carthage. We start on Byrsa Hill, once the military center of ancient Carthage and later destroyed by the Romans in 146 BC. We visit its museum, home to exhibits that showcase the area’s rich history, and also the nearby Punic houses.

The day continues with the Tophet (Punic burial ground), ancient harbors, ship sheds, the Punic fortifications in the “Quartier Magon”, and the Antonine Baths. At around 35,000 square meters, it is one of the three largest bath complexes in the entire Roman world.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 27th | Tunis

We start today at the Bardo Museum, a site that contains spectacular Roman mosaics, Punic stelae and jewelry. Housed in a former palace, it was built by Mhammed Bey between 1859 and 1864 in the Italo-Tunisian style. Next, we move on to the labyrinthine center of alleys and ancient streets, the Medina of Tunis. Colorful doorways, bustling souks and vibrant culture await. After lunch, we tour the Dar Ben Abdallah Museum, where exhibits explore the public life of city inhabitants. Later, we take a stroll through stunning Sidi Bou Said.

All meals included.

March 28th | Tunis - Kairouan

Passing west through the Andalusian town of Testour, we spend our day exploring the hilltop site of Dougga, which flourished in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. It also features a monumental Punic mausoleum, which dates back to the 2nd century BC. It is amazingly well-preserved and the glory of Imperial Rome is evoked by its temples, baths and arches. Once we’ve admired the many sights and structures here, our drive brings us to Kairouan, once the Muslim capital of North Africa and still a repository of Islamic culture.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia

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March 29th | Kairouan

Today we return to Imperial Rome with a visit to El Jem (Thysdrus) to view the amphitheater, which could hold up to 35,000 spectators and is built entirely from stone blocks without foundations. Its structure is supported by a system of arches and it is free-standing.

Though smaller than the Colosseum in Rome, it is in a better state of preservation and is also the largest colosseum in all of North Africa.

Later, we will pay a visit to the outstanding archaeological museum, which is filled with an outstanding collection of stunning mosaics.

After a stop at the colorful souks of Kairouan, we return to our hotel for dinner.

All meals included.

March 30th | Kairouan - Tunis

Another morning in Kairouan awaits and this time we visit the 9th-century Sidi Okba Mosque, with its columned prayer room, and the Mosque of the Berber, whose decorative tiling and carved ceilings rival those of the Alhambra. While we’re in the area, we stop at the Aghlabid Basins, 9th century cisterns that showcase the sophistication of ancient engineering. From here, we drive to Monastir for lunch and then we tour the historic Ribat monument.

Next, we drive to Sousse and enjoy a tour of the Archaeological Museum. Impressively, this museum contains the second largest collection of mosaics in the world after the Bardo Museum.

Breakfast & lunch included.

March 31st | Tunis

Today, we drive to Nabeul to visit the Archaeological Musuem, where we admire funerary furnishings, mosaic pavements and marble sculptures, among other artifacts. We also spend time at the ancient fish-processing pools at Nabeul (Neapolis) before stopping for lunch, and then it’s on to the Punic town of Kerkouane. Here, we take a walk around its archaeological museum and see collections of ceramic art and jewelry. Before our day comes to an end and we have to head back to Tunis, we visit the archaeological site, which reveals the plan of a Punic city. Houses are clearly outlined, mosaic pavements can be observed and rooms appear to have been equipped with facilities.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... **

April 1st | Tunis - Rabat

Our day is spent travelling as we transfer to Morocco, catching a flight from Tunis to Casablanca. From here, we drive a short distance to Rabat and check in to our hotel.

Breakfast & dinner included.

April 2nd | Rabat

Following a free morning, which allows us to explore Morocco’s enchanting capital city of Rabat independently, we begin our touring with a captivating afternoon visit to the local archaeological museum.

Opened in 1932, this museum contains a wealth of artifacts that tell the stories of Morocco’s past. From prehistoric and pre-Islamic collections, to Roman and Hellenistic exhibits, we can enjoy a range of history here. The city’s most important Islamic monuments are also ours to discover today and we see the walls and splendid gateway of Oudaias Kasbah, built in the reign of Yacoub el Mansour (1185– 99), the Royal Palace (Mechouar), the Mohammed V Mausoleum, Hassan’s Tower (originally the minaret of a large mosque) and the Chellah necropolis.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 3rd | Rabat - Fes

En route to Meknes, we visit Moulay Idriss, perched on top of a great massif. This little holy city is venerated as the burial place of the founder of Islam in Morocco and is the fifth holiest Muslim city. Our touring here includes Bab el Mansour Gate and El Hedim Square, the gateway of Berrima. Lastly, we visit Dar Jamai, home to traditional textiles and crafts. From here, we drive to the imperial city of Fes. All meals included.

April 4th | Fes

Fes, considered to be the intellectual, political and cultural center of the entire country, is where we begin. We spend the day exploring the medieval medina, with narrow streets and tiled fountains at every corner. It is divided into Fes el Bali, the original city, and Fes el Jdid, a 13th-century addition that houses the former Jewish quarter. Our touring takes us into both sections and includes Bab Bou Jeloud, the monumental gateway to the medina; the Attarine Madrassa, known

Tour Information

for its fine tiles; the restored 18th-century Fondouk Nejjarine; and Bou Inania Madrassa, built between 1350 and 1356. We also visit the Dar Batha Museums and the Roman city of Volubilis.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 5th | Fes - Marrakech

Another day of travelling is on the cards today and we catch a morning flight from Fes to Marrakech. Shortly after our arrival into the city, we can take a leisurely stroll around its medina. The architecture here is simply spellbinding and examples of the keyhole arch can be seen around every corner. A truly sensory experience, wandering around the medina will introduce us to eclectic modes of transport, delicious regional produce and incredibly vibrant colors.

Breakfast included.

April 6th | Marrakech

Today we tour the city’s historic sites, which offer prime examples of Moorish-Andalusian architecture. Touring includes the great Mosque of Koutoubia, which is also Marrakesh’s largest, and the tomb of the Saadian kings, one of Morocco’s best-preserved and elaborate resting places. Next, we visit Ben Youssef Madrassa, which was once an Islamic college for students with a keen interest in the sciences and theology. We also see the ruined Al-Badi Palace, the Dar Si Said Museum, the Almoravid Qubbah, and the Museum of Islamic Art. Tonight, we enjoy a farewell dinner in one of the city’s finest restaurants.

All meals included.

April 7th | Marrakech

We have the entire day at leisure. Perhaps take the opportunity to see the iconic Majorelle Garden. Created by the French Oriental artist, Jacques Majorelle, this two acre botanical masterpiece is not to be missed!

Breakfast included.

April 8th | Depart Marrakech

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Morocco

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 3 nights in Tunis: 5*

2 nights in Rabat: 4*

2 nights in Kairouan: 4*

2 nights in Fes: 5*

2 nights in Tunis: 5*

3 nights in Marrakech: 5*

Meknes Rabat

Volubilis Fès

Marrakech

Tunis

Carthage

Dougga

A/C coach Regional flights: Tunis - Rabat, Fes - Marrakech

Tunisia

Kairouan

El Djem

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/tum

37

AN ODYSSEY OF ISLANDS Malta, Sardinia & Corsica 15 Days | April 4th - 18th $8,295 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,200

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Scenic view of the historical town of Mdina, Malta

Grand Harbour of Valletta, Malta

VALLETTA - CAGLIARI - ORISTANO - ALGHERO - BONIFACIO - PROPRIANO - AJACCIO - NICE Though near-neighbors this trio of sunlit central Mediterranean islands off the Italian coast are as chalk to cheese when it comes to their contrasting history, heritage and dramatic landscapes. All three share inter-connections and influences originating with the early peoples of the Aegean - yet today each has developed its own colorful and distinctive culture.

Why and how these contrasts evolved is the rich thread linking this interest-filled odyssey. Its investigative approach will reward you with a knowledge of the ancient civilizations that conquered these islands in turn - a story stretching from the seafaring Sherden and Phoenicians to Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Crusader knights and Turks and to latter-day colonization by the Spanish, Italians, French and British. You will also gain an enhanced understanding of the ways in which the occupiers left their own indelible legacy upon the great landmarks of the islands and their differing modern-day cultures.

Among the tour’s memorable archaeological locations visited will be Malta’s prehistoric megalithic temples at Ggantija (a UNESCO World Heritage site, dating from 3600 BC); examples of the unique 7,000 towerfortress nuraghes of Sardinia (mere youngsters from the second millennium BC); and Corsica’s megalithic sites of Fontanaccia, Stantari and Renaghju, the island’s best-preserved dolmen.

Tour Highlights Explore the fascinatingly contrasted archaeology, scenery and eclectic origins of the cultural and political histories of three very different islands Discover the megalithic temples of Malta, the nuraghes of Sardinia and the open-air sanctuaries and cult sites of Corsica Travel through spectacular unspoilt scenery beneath spring skies - and enjoy delicious local cuisine and wines in the heart of the Mediterranean Visit the excellent Sartene Archaeological Museum, in the heart of Corsica’s most megalithic monument-rich region Experience the true delights that Malta has to offer, from the crystal clear waters to the welcoming charm of the locals

Expert Scholar Prof. Caroline Malone is a professor of Prehistory at Queen’s University, Belfast and Prinicpal Investigator of the European Research Council Advanced Research Project. Her research interests include fieldwork in mainland Italy, Malta, Sicily and Britain. Specific topics include island archaeology and cultural resource management.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/msc

39

YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY April 4th | Valletta

We arrive in Valletta, the capital of Malta, and transfer to our first hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax after our flight, before enjoying our first dinner together as a group.

Dinner included.

April 5th | Valletta

This full day will begin at the National Museum of Archaeology, which displays a wonderful collection of prehistoric material from the island. We then take a short walking tour in the old city, including a visit to St. John’s Cathedral, which houses Caravaggio’s The Beheading among its many other treasures. Our day concludes with a walking tour around the fortified city of Mdina. From antiquity to Medieval times, Mdina served at the island’s original capital. The historic streets and tiny plazas are now purely Maltese in character.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 6th | Valletta

April 8th | Valetta - Cagliari

Today, we fly from Malta to Sardinia. We arrive in Cagliari in time for dinner as a group.

Breakfast & dinner included.

April 9th | Cagliari

This morning, we discover Sardinia’s capital city, Cagliari. We then enjoy a walking tour of the old town, visiting a myriad of interesting sites, such as the impressive 13th century Romanesque Gothic Cathedral and Roman Amphitheater. There is an Italian feel to the palazzi, squares and domed churches that characterize Sardinia’s capital, which we will notice while wandering around here. This afternoon, we have free time to explore the city, time to spend shopping, further sightseeing, or simply relax in one of the many pavement cafés.

Breakfast included.

April 10th | Cagliari

Our tour starts at Hagar Qim and Mnajdra, a megalithic temple complex occupying a marvelous site above the sea and looking out over the islet of Fifla. These temples are unusual for their beautifully dressed stones and variety of altars. Our touring this afternoon continues at the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a vast rock-cut catacomb for multiple burials, and then the temples of Tarxien, which is a complex that is made up of four megalithic structures built at the height of the Temple Period.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Today’s itinerary takes us to a variety of Phoenician sites, beginning with a scenic coastal drive to the ancient city of Nora. This area was founded almost 3,000 years ago and had many phases of occupation, from the Phoenicians and the Carthaginians, to the Romans. We visit the city’s Punic temple along with its Roman theater and baths, and then we make our way to Monte Sirai, touring a Phoenician mining town and visit several Nuragic towers.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 7th | Valletta

Driving north this morning, we make our first stop at the megalithic cult center and cemetery of Pranu Muteddu, with its menhirs and tumuli. We then continue on to the largest nuraghic village in Sardinia, Su Nuraxi, which has 396 houses and a massive central structure. This is a UNESCO World Heritage and archaeological site, and the large Nuraghe here dominates the area – its purpose still widely debated by scholars. Our touring today will come to an end at the ancient Phoenician and Roman town of Tharros, which was also a former bishopric.

All meals included.

We travel to the far end of the island and take a ferry to the tiny island of Gozo. Here, we will visit the prehistoric temples of Ggantija, which date from 3600 BC and are archetypal of this phase. These well-preserved temples have massive walls, some of which still rise to a height of 17 feet. They are as enigmatic today as they must have been in prehistory. From here, we pay a visit to the Archaeological Museum as well as the Citadel in the old Norman town of Victoria before returning to Valletta for the remainder of the evening.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Ruins of Su Nuraxi, Sardinia

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April 11th | Cagliari - Oristano

This tour has a physical rating of... **

April 12th | Oristano - Alghero

April 15th| Bonifacio

We begin at the Nuragic complex of Losa and the sanctuary of Santa Cristina. Here, we find a hole in the ground - a well - that was built as a sacred site for an ancient civilization. After our tour here, we spend time at the rock-cut necropolis of Sant’Andrea Priu, which is dated to between 3500-2900 BC. We explore the site, including one of the largest tombs in the Mediterranean, with no fewer than eighteen rock-cut rooms. We continue to Alghero, a lovely port city, which still retains its Catalan atmosphere.

Breakfast & lunch included.

The hill village of Sartene is ours to discover this morning and we begin with an interesting walking tour of its center. Granite buildings, charming alleyways and great local wines make this a popular, yet still considerably little-visited, destination in France. Once we’ve seen all there is to see here, we drive on to Spina Cavallu for an afternoon visit. We return to Bonifacio for independent wandering, souvenir shopping or just relaxing among the glorious local surroundings.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 13th | Alghero - Arzachena

This morning, we will view Bonifacio’s old buildings remaining from the Pisan and Genoese periods, as well as its fortifications, built in 830 CE by a Tuscan margrave in order to repel a Saracen attack. The city is famous for its towers and churches, as well as its characteristic red-roofed, white-walled buildings. Later, we drive into the scenic Tizzano Valley to tour the megalithic sites of Fontanaccia, Stantari and Renaghju, the most well-preserved dolmens in Corsica.

All meals included.

A visit to the fascinating Neolithic site of Monte d’Accoddi, a huge megalithic altar set on a base of over ten meters, awaits our discovery this morning. The site was found by the Segni family back in 1954 and it makes for an interesting stop on our travels today. We will spend the rest of our morning in Sassari, a delightful medieval town nestled around its great cathedral. This is a vibrant location, which houses a university and boasts a charming historic center. We visit the fine prehistoric Punic and Roman collections at the National Museum and then drive to our next hotel in Arzachena.

All meals included.

April 14th | Arzachena - Bonifacio

We travel through mountain villages and along winding coastal roads until we reach La Prisgiona. Upon our arrival, we find the giants’ tombs of Li Loghi and Coddu Vecchiu, as well as the prehistoric cemetery of Li Muri, which dates back to the fourth millennium BC. Unusual for the period, the dead here were buried in single tombs, complete with rich grave goods. After lunch, we take a short ferry trip across to the beautiful island of Corsica, where we spend the night in the lovely port of Bonifacio. This fortified town, perched atop the chalk cliffs, appears on the Corsican horizon as we approach. We can expect to find quaint streets, interesting sites of historic significance (such as the house where Napoleon spent several months on Rue des Deux-Empereurs), and an array of great restaurants and cafés in this area. There will be time to relax before tomorrow’s adventures.

All meals included.

Tour Information

April 16th | Bonifacio - Propriano

April 17th | Propriano - Ajaccio

Our final full day of touring begins with a visit to Corsica’s picturesque commune of Sainte Lucie de Tallano. This particular area is known for its olive oil and the village itself is perched high above the Rizzanese Valley in the Alta Rocca region. Then, we will continue our day with a visit to the Bronze Age settlements and archaeological sites of Cucuruzzu and Capula.

All meals included.

April 18th | Depart Ajaccio via Nice

Today we fly from Ajaccio to Nice as a group and connect to our individual flights home or onward travel.

Ajaccio Propriano

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 4 nights in Valletta: 5*

1 night in Arzachena: 5*

3 nights in Cagliari: 4*

1 night in Bonifacio: 3*

1 night in Oristano: 4*

2 nights in Propriano: 5*

1 night in Alghero: 5*

1 night in Ajaccio: 5*

Bonifacio

Malta, Sardinia & Corsica

Arzachena

Alghero

Oristano

Valletta

A/C coach, ferry Flights; Valetta - Cagliara: Ajaccio - Nice

Cagliari Nora

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/msc

41

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF TRADERS Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan 19 Days | April 17th - 5th May $6,980 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,090

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Abandoned ruins of Ayaz Kala fortress, Uzbekistan

Сomplex Khast-Imom, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

ASHGABAT - MARY - ASHGABAT - NUKUS - KHIVA - BUKHARA - SAMARKAND - TASHKENT The Silk Road. A fabled name whose romantic mystique evokes images of desert caravanserais and merchant camel trains laden with precious silks and spices winding their way from China to the West – a distant era that has left a lasting imprint upon the commerce, history and religions it diffused through Central Asia.

Pride of place on our exploration of this crucible of cultural and ethnic diversity goes to Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, neighboring independent republics and former Khanate states whose lavish palaces and mosques were built with wealth derived from control of the treasures flowing through these lands. Today theirs is a timeless backdrop of snow-capped mountains, empty deserts, colorful markets, grazing camels and traditionally-garbed local people - in places fascinatingly juxtaposed with a 21st century veneer.

Our journey visiting no less than five UNESCO World Heritage Sites offers many inspirational rewards in the fields of archaeology and ethnography. Edged by the Caspian Sea and dominated by the Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan is best-known for its extensive archaeological ruins at Merv and Zoroastrian Gonur Tepe. Uzbekistan boasts a plethora of striking mosques, mausoleums and madrassas, the most magnificent at the Registan, a landmark of Islamic architecture in historic Samarkand – while perhaps Central Asia’s most complete example of a medieval city awaits at Bukara, long a center for Islamic theology and scholarship.

Tour Highlights Discover no fewer than 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including ancient Shahr-i and the stunning historic center of Samarkand Visit the impressively excavated and restored ancient fortress town of Gonur Tepe Enjoy Turkmenistan shopping in Ashgabad’s colorful open-air bazaar where the locals sell handicrafts, vegetables, Bukhara-style rugs & traditional costumes Wander among the architectural treasures of Uzbekistan’s atmospheric and wonderfully restored walled city of Khiva Immerse yourself in the culture these fascinating countries have to offer, and revel in the opportunity to sample the local cuisine

Expert Scholar Prof. Craig Benjamin is an Associate Professor in the History Department at Grand Valley State University in Michigan, where he teaches courses in ancient Central and East Asian history, and on the Silk Roads. Professor Benjamin received his PhD from Macquarie University in Sydney, where he studied nomadic confederations of ancient Central Asia.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/tsr

43

YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY April 17th | Ashgabat

We arrive in Turkmenistan and transfer to our hotel, where we rest.

After a lecture, we tour Ashgabat. The capital is in the center of the Akhal-Teke Oasis, surrounded on one side by the Kara-Kum Desert and on the other by the Kopet-Dag Mountains. It is home to lavish marble palaces, gold domes and beautifully manicured parkland.

All meals included.

April 18th | Ashgabat

Our day begins at the Kipchak Mosque, the largest in Central Asia.

We then visit the UNESCO Site of the Parthian Fortresses of Nissa, the capital of the Parthian Empire, located at important trade routes.

After lunch, we visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses a wealth of ancient drinking vessels, known as rhytons.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 19th | Ashgabat - Mary

We spend time in Ashgabat’s oriental bazaar, Altyn Asyr, which is known for being one of the largest markets in Central Asia.

There is a tall clock tower at its heart and the extensive market sells an impressive range of goods, from Turkmen carpets to local handicrafts. We continue to Anau, where traces of habitation date back to the 4th millennium BC. Later we fly to Mary where we check into our hotel before dinner.

All meals included.

April 20th | Mary

This morning, we visit the archaeological site of Gonur Tepe. Dated to 3000 BC, Gonur-Depe is one of the oldest Zoroastrian civilizations.

The largest ruins in the Morghab delta region are found here, with over 150 settlements dating to the early Bronze Age. Later, in Mary, we explore exhibits at the National History and Ethnology Museum.

All meals included.

April 21st | Mary - Ashgabat

Today, we explore the site of ancient Merv, an amazing historical treasure-house and capital of the Parthian province of Margiana. This is one of the most important cities along the Silk Road. Among its Ancient city of Merv, Turkmenistan

44

ruins are the tomb of Sultan Sanjar and the Erk-Kala, perhaps rebuilt

by Roman prisoners taken by the Parthians at the battle of Carrhae in 53 BC. Later, we fly to Ashgabat.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 22nd | Ashgabat - Nukus

We fly to DaĹ&#x;oguz and tour the monument-rich town of KunyaUrgench, capital of Khorezm and a major city on the northern caravan route until 1388. We visit the remaining monuments, including Turabeg Khanym Mausoleum; Najmuddin Kubra Mausoleum, and Kutluk Timur Minaret, which, at 62 meters, is the tallest in central Asia. We then cross the border into Uzbekistan.

All meals included.

April 23rd | Nukus - Khiva

This morning, we discover one of the best collections of Soviet art in the world at in the Nukus Museum. After our visit, we drive along the Amu Darya river to Khiva, stopping along the way to visit Chilpik Dakhma. This Zoroastrian tower of silence is thought to be the earliest example of the traditional funerary ritual, constructed somewhere between the 1st century BC and 1st century AD. Breakfast & lunch included.

April 24th | Khiva

We start our day by exploring Old Khiva. This was the first place in Uzbekistan to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Tash Khovli Palace, with its 18th-century harem, and the 9th-century Djuma Mosque, with its unusual wooden ceiling, are among the architectural treasures we see. We have the afternoon at leisure.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 25th | Khiva - Bukhara

We journey to Ayaz Kala this morning. The towering mud-brick walls of the three fortresses found here are truly a sight to behold, rising dramatically from the surrounding plains. Later, we travel by air or by train to Bukhara.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... ***

April 26th | Bukhara

April 30th | Samarkand

This morning we tour the historic center of Bukhara, including the museums and mosques of the Ark Citadel and the Samanid Mausoleum. Our visits continue at the Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum; Kalyan Minaret and Mosque; Bala-Hauz Mosque; and the Lab-i Hauz Fountain, surrounded by madrassas. We end the day leisurely by browsing through Bukhara’s famous bazaars.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Samarkand’s city monuments await and we begin with a visit to the Afrasiab Museum. We tour the Ulugh-Beg Observatory - one of the finest in the Islamic world - and later we explore the Regional Museum of Samarkand, located in an old merchant’s house. Our day ends at Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, Tamerlane’s tomb.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 27th | Bukhara

We continue our exploration of Samarkand at the Bibi-Khanum Mosque and the gorgeous lane of mosques and mausoleums known as Sha-i-Zhinda. The remainder of the day will be at leisure before an evening light show in Rajistan Square.

All meals included.

We spend the morning at the ruined town of Paykent. In its heyday, it was home to a citadel with a Zoroastrian fire temple and several residential quarters. On our return to Bukhara, we stop at the memorial complex of Chor-Bakr, a 16th-century necropolis. We will also visit the tomb of Baha-ud-Din Naqshband, the 14th-century founder of the Naqshbandis, a very ancient and important Sufi order. This is a highly revered place of pilgrimage and has two lovely restored mosques as well as a simple tomb and small museum.

Breakfast & lunch included.

April 28th | Bukhara

Our first stop today is the ancient city of Varaksha, one of the major towns of the Hephthalite civilization, and the final retreat for local kings when the Arab armies advanced. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to take in more of Bukhara and explore the local markets. This evening we will take in a show of ancient costumes at Nodir Devon Begi before enjoying dinner.

All meals included.

April 29th | Bukhara - Samarkand

We travel to Samarkand, stopping at Shahrisabz, known as one of the most ancient cities along the trade routes of Central Asia. Here Tamerlane, who was born in a nearby village, built the famous AkSarai (White Palace) to celebrate his victory against Khorezm. At last, we arrive in Samarkand, an historic town founded in the 7th century BC and revered for its mosques and many monuments.

All meals included.

May 1st | Samarkand

May 2nd | Samarkand - Tashkent

We enjoy a final morning in Samarkand and visit its main attraction: Registan Square, surrounded by Ulugbek, Sher-Dor and Tilla-Kori madrasahs. We travel by train to Tashkent.

All meals included.

May 3rd | Tashkent

A full day at your leisure to relax and unwind before tomorrow’s touring. There will be a final lecture before lunch to recap our tour.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 4th | Tashkent

We spend the whole day in Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital. Our touring begins with a walking tour in the Old Town, including Barak Khana Madrassa, Kukeldash Madrassa, and Chorsu bazaar.

We end the day visiting Tashkent’s fine State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, with its outstanding collection of archaeological material, and later enjoy a farewell dinner all together.

All meals included.

May 5th | Depart Tashkent

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

Uzbekistan

Nukus

2 nights in Ashgabat: 5*

2 nights in Khiva: 3*

Tashkent

Khiva

2 nights in Mary: 4*

4 nights in Bukhara: 4*

1 night in Ashgabat: 5*

3 nights in Samarkand: 4*

1 night in Nukus: 3*

3 nights in Tashkent: 5*

Bukhara Samarkand Ashgabat Mary

A/C coach, regional flights: Ashgabat - Mary Ashgabat - Daşoguz; Urgench - Bukhara

Turkmenistan

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/tsr

45

IBERIAN EMPIRES OF ANTIQUITY Portugal & Spain 17 Days | May 22nd - 7th June $8,995 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,750

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Patio de Banderas and the Giralda Tower, Seville, Andalusia, Spain

Alhambra palace, Granada, Spain

LISBON - ÉVORA - MÉRIDA - SEVILLE - CÓRDOBA - GRANADA - TOLEDO - MADRID The Iberian peninsula’s ancient heartlands of Portugal and Spain span a vast canvas of Western European history and cultures - on which the impact of successive eras of invasion and occupation through many centuries has imposed an enduring signature. While this eventful patrimony is readily apparent in their flamboyant architectural and artistic traditions, both countries can also boast an equally colorful spectrum of historic sites and monuments of special interest to the archaeologically-minded traveler.

First to arrive here were the Iberians - perhaps from Africa. While they and the Celts, Phoenicians, Greeks and Carthaginians who followed each left their own individual marks, it was from conquest and centuries-long domination by the Romans and later the Moors that the impressive archaeology of Spain and Portugal derived its richest and most influential inheritance.

Our far-ranging journey from picturesque Lisbon to lively Madrid travels first to medieval Évora before entering Spain’s dazzling Andalusia. Here we take time out in the historic cities of Seville, Cadiz, Cordoba and Granada (home of the legendary Alhambra Palace) and finally Toledo in Castilla-La Mancha. Visits also featured are to major Roman sites (including Mérida, Itálica and Gadir), the ruins of a vast Moorish palace-city, megalithic complexes, several outstanding archaeological museums – and much more.

Tour Highlights Enjoy a walking tour of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal’s most delightful medieval towns, with many Roman sites Explore magnificent Roman ruins in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mérida, including the Trajan Arch and the Puente Romano Discover Granada’s magical Alhambra Palace, an eternal love letter to Moorish culture Savor the exclusive world of Bodegas Lustau in Jerez de la Frontera with an afternoon sherry-tasting Wander through the monumental tombs of Carmona Necropolis, an intriguing complex of Iron Age and Roman tombs

Expert Scholar Prof. Ori Z. Soltes is a professor at Georgetown University and has also taught in the Classics department at John Hopkins and Cleveland State Universities. Professors Soltes’ areas of specialization include Jewish, Christian and Muslim art and religions, classical philosophy, linguistics, and IndoEuropean philology.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/spo

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY May 22nd | Lisbon

We arrive in Lisbon, Portugal’s historic and happening capital, and transfer directly to our hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax after our flight, before enjoying our first dinner as a group.

Dinner included.

May 23rd | Lisbon

We begin our journey with a walking tour of Lisbon. Our starting point is the Tower of Belém, a lasting legacy of the Portuguese age of discovery, used not only to fortify the harbor, but as a custom house for both visiting and returning vessels. We then make our way along the river to the city’s Archaeological Museum, and finally to the 15thcentury Jerónimos Monastery. After lunch, we visit the Millenium bcp Foundation and Lisbon’s Roman Theater Museum, where we view the traces and artifacts that remain of this 1st-century BC site.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 24th | Lisbon - Évora

This morning we leave Lisbon and travel to Tróia, a former Roman ‘factory’ in which fish was salted and made into garum, a popular fermented sauce. This is not just any Roman ruin, but the largest known facility of its type in the Roman world. We continue to the medieval town of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While here we embark on a walking tour of the town’s many Roman sites, including the colonnaded remains of the Templo Romano de Diana and the unusual 16th-century Chapel of Bones.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 25th | Évora - Mérida

We head out to the Almendres Cromlechs, a megalithic complex and the largest existing group of structured menhirs in the Iberian Peninsula. We then continue our exploration of Évora with a visit to the town’s museum, which contains some 20,000 pieces. Afterwards, we head to Elvas for a short stop at the 16th-century Amoreira Aqueduct, a marvellous construction spanning the length of the municipality. Our day ends at Mérida, a city first founded by veterans of Emperor Augustus’ army in around 25 BC. Breakfast & lunch included.

Great Mosque Mezquita, Córdoba

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May 26th | Mérida

We have a full day to admire the plentiful Roman sites of Mérida. Morning visits include the amphitheater, theater and the Archaeological Museum, home to a marvelous display of paintings, tombstones and sculptures. After lunch, we enjoy a walking tour of the city, including attractions such as the Trajan Arch and the Puente Romano, the longest of all the surviving Roman bridges, still standing and frequently used to this day.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 27th | Mérida - Seville

We start by heading out of the city to the Dolmen of Lacara, a megalithic complex set in beautiful natural surroundings. Our next stop is the burial site of Huerta Montero Tholos, a burial site remarkable for its exact alignment with the sun at the time of the winter solstice. This afternoon, we journey to the splendid city of Seville, where we enjoy free time to stroll the Andalusian streets.

Breakfast & dinner included.

May 28th | Seville

An early start takes us to Itálica, just a short drive from Seville. The remains here include elaborate mosaic floors and an amphitheater with space for up to 25,000 spectators. We return to Seville this afternoon for an excursion to the Archaeological Museum, home to the El Carambolo treasure. Later we take a leisurely walk through the park to view the Plaza de España, a magnificent landmark notable for its ceramic depiction of Spain’s various provinces.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 29th | Seville

Our first visit today is to the monumental Alcázar of Seville – a former royal palace of Moorish kings, with a rich blend of architecture that demonstrates a striking amalgamation of influences.

Next, we enter Seville Cathedral. As well as being the largest Gothic building in Europe, and the third largest church in the world, the Cathedral is also famous as the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. The afternoon is free for us to spend as we please.

Breakfast included.

This tour has a physical rating of... **

May 30th | Seville

We make our way to Cádiz for a visit to the Archaeological Museum, where we find evidence of the city’s past as the ancient Phoenician and Punic city of Gadir – one of the most important settlements in the Western Mediterranean. Next, we head to the Gadir archaeological site, where we learn even more about the Phoenician way of life by seeing streets, homes and tools dating back to the 9th-century BC. This afternoon we head to Cádiz’s Teatro Romano, a 1st-century attraction that features in the writings of Cicero.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 31st | Seville - Córdoba

Today we drive east to Carmona Necropolis, an intriguing complex of Iron Age and Roman tombs that contain such amazing monuments as the Tomb of the Elephant, and the Tomb of Servilia.

Following this, our journey leads on to Córdoba, where we spend time admiring the extraordinary Cathedral.

All meals included.

June 1st | Córdoba

of the Sierra Morena. This legendary UNESCO World Heritage site is certainly set to take our breaths away. A huge complex of carved ceilings, flawless courtyards and glorious gardens, it rightly draws in visitors from all corners of the globe. Afterwards, we relax during a drive to Toledo, also known as the “City of the Three Cultures” for the cultural influences of Christians, Muslims and Jews reflected in its history.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 4th | Toledo

After breakfast we explore Toledo on foot – a real feast for the senses.

We explore the ancient mosque of Cristo de la Luz, the synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca, arguably the oldest synagogue building in Europe still standing, as well as the ornate synagogue of El Transito.

After lunch we admire Toledo’s impressive Gothic cathedral, a 13th-century sanctuary streaming with natural light. We also enter the Church of Santo Tomé, home to El Greco’s stupendous 1580s masterpiece, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Our day starts with an excursion to Medina Azahara, the ruins of a vast Moorish palace-city which once served as the de facto capital of Muslim Spain. Returning to Córdoba, we have the afternoon free to spend as we wish. Feel the rhythms inside the Flamenco Museum, or simply watch the world go by at the Plaza de la Corredera.

Breakfast & dinner included.

June 5th | Toledo - Madrid

June 2nd | Córdoba - Granada

Our final full day starts with an enlightening tour of the National Archaeology Museum. Within its collections are gathered artifacts from all over the country, including the renowned Dama de Elche, the most famous piece of Iberian art in existence. The afternoon is free for us to explore Madrid at our leisure, leaving plenty of time to go wherever our curiosity takes us. We mark our last night with a delectable farewell dinner and drinks as a group.

Breakfast & dinner included.

We journey to gorgeous Granada today, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and visit the Cartuja Granada Monastery, a charterhouse, which contains a spectacularly-decorated tabernacle.

This afternoon, we move on to view the resplendent Granada Cathedral, before taking a gentle walk around the Albaicin.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 3rd | Granada - Toledo

We simply must devote the day to the peerless Alhambra Palace, a hilltop Moorish and Renaissance fantasy set against the backdrop

This morning we have a leisurely start before heading to Madrid.

Upon arrival in the buzzing capital, we have lunch and then visit the Museo del Prado, the country’s principle museum of art.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 6th | Madrid

June 7th | Depart Madrid

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: Madrid

2 nights in Lisbon: 4*

1 night in Granda: 4*

1 night in Évora: 4*

2 nights in Toledo: 4*

2 nights Mérida: 5*

2 nights in Madrid: 4*

4 nights in Seville: 4*

Toledo Mérida

Évora Lisbon

Seville Córdoba

2 nights in Córdoba: 4*

A/C coach

Granada

Portugal & Spain

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/spo

49

RELICS OF THE SILK ROAD Western China 19 Days | May 24th - 11th June $8,770 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,200

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Great Wall of China

Dunhuang Mingsha Crescent Moon

BEIJING - XI’AN - JIAYUGUAN - DUNHUANG - TURPAN - URUMQI HOTAN - KASHGAR - BEIJING Over 2,000 years ago, merchants first began to use the great artery of the Silk Road for the flow of goods between China, the trading centers of Persia, the Middle East and Europe. Thus was born the legendary 4,000 mile trail that began its arduous journey through western China’s challenging terrain via the ‘caravan city’ oases of Dunhuang, Tupanm Urumqi, Hotan and Kashgar, to which increased wealth inevitably flowed.

Today’s western China remains far less developed than the east, from which it can still seem surprisingly remote, with languages and traditions of its own. It’s a land characterized by swathes of empty and breathtakingly beautiful terrain, with vistas ranging from infinite prairie pastures to formidable tracts like Xinjang’s Taklamakan desert, and the peaks of some of Asia’s highest mountains.

Our journey through these fascinating unfamiliar landscapes and cultures, offers the curious traveler insight into the region’s ancient civilizations on visits to haunting ancient ruins of sites like Jiaohe, the citadel of Gaochang, Buddhist and Confucian temples, Islamic mosques and cultural museums. All this is in contrast to a chance to enjoy Kashgar’s famously colorful Grand Sunday Bazaar, and Hotan’s night market with local Uyghur dancers.

Tour Highlights Explore Bezeklik’s great Cave of 1,000 Buddhas - an amazing cave grotto complex dating from the 5th to the 14th centuries Wander the Mogao Cliff cave chapels near Dunhuang, a UNESCO world Heritage Site dating back to AD 366 Visit Jiayuguan Fort, the western starting point of the Ming Great Wall and a key pass on the ancient Silk Road Discover the archaeology among the historic ruins of Jiaohe and the citadel of Goachang near Turpan View the iconic Terracotta Warriors, a collection of sculptures depicting the armies of Qn Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China

Expert Scholar Prof. Craig Benjamin is an Associate Professor in the History Department at Grand Valley State University in Michigan, where he teaches courses in ancient Central and East Asian history, and on the Silk Roads. Professor Benjamin received his PhD from Macquarie University in Sydney, where he studied nomadic confederations of ancient Central Asia.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/chw

51

YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY May 24th | Beijing

We arrive into the city of Beijing and transfer to our first hotel where the group will meet for the first dinner of the tour.

Dinner included.

May 25th | Beijing

We start by visiting Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

Located in the heart of Beijing, here we will see various meeting rooms and walk through the Emperor’s garden to gain a greater appreciation of the nature of these structures. We have the afternoon to spend at leisure, opt to explore on your own, or to relax.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 26th | Beijing

Today we visit the iconic Great Wall of China, a sight to behold. After lunch, we will continue to the Summer Palace of the Qing Dynasty Empress Dowager Cixi and enjoy a short cruise on Lake Kunming.

We will also have the chance to see a Jade Carving Factory, offering us insight in how jade wares are created.

All meals included.

May 27th | Beijing - Xi’an

This morning we fly to Xi’an, the Chinese terminus of the Silk Road.

Xi’an was the capital of China during the Han and Tang dynasties, the two ages when the world came to China. Touring in Xi’an includes a visit to the Tang Walls. Some passes of the walls were built in its early years to protect the newly-founded dynasty from hostile nomads.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 28th | Xi’an

We start our day with a visit to the Terracotta Reproduction Center and the famous Terracotta warriors. The statues displayed here were originally crafted to guard the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. In the afternoon, we continue to Xi’an museum, home to an immense collection that spans over 130,000 pieces; 14,400 of which are rated at China’s highest level of cultural importance.

All meals included.

Terracotta Warrior, Xian

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May 29th | Xi’an - Jiayuguan

This morning, we catch a flight to Jiayuguan, known as the ‘mouth’ of China, and one of the Silk Road’s defining points. Upon our arrival we have lunch. In the afternoon, we pay a visit to the Jiayuguan fort, which was a vital area for defence along the Great Wall. There is also time to see the Gate as well as examine the exhibits housed within the nearby Great Wall Museum, which are divided into sections according to time periods and seasons.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 30th | Jiayuguan

After breakfast, we drive for around forty minutes to the fascinating Wei-Jin Tombs - often referred to as the largest subterranean art gallery in the world - and explore this site in depth. Here, we can stand before amazing murals and we will also discover artifacts at the accompanying museum. After a stop for lunch, we make our way to Yemawan Bao Yizhi, a former walled town with crumbling ruins.

Breakfast & lunch included.

May 31st | Jiayuguan - Dunhuang

Today we make our way to the city of Dunhuang, China’s front door during the period of the Silk Road. On the way, we stop to explore the Yulin Grottoes, a Buddhist cave temple site, home to 250 statues and wall paintings, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. We will also visit the ruined Tang Military Fortress. Upon arrival in Dunhuang, we visit the Shazhou night market. This is the perfect opportunity to taste some of China’s authentic delicacies, including yellow noodles, brewed bean jelly and Hu Lamb Pizza.

All meals included.

June 1st | Dunhuang

After a brief drive, we arrive at the Mogoa Caves - a stop that will undoubtedly be the highlight of our tour. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a complex of some 492 cave-chapels, which are home to magnificent sculptures and wall paintings. Time permitting, we will also explore the Singing Sand Dunes, where the desert meets the oasis. This area offers experiences such as Crescent Lake camel rides.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... ***

June 2nd | Dunhuang - Turpan

June 7th | Hotan - Kashgar

This morning we visit Duhuang Museum. On display are documents, unearthed cultural relics from ancient tombs and tools. Later, we travel to Turpan and upon arrival, we have the chance to explore the excellent regional museum, and the 18th century Emin Minaret. The Minaret was built within one year and is the tallest in China.

All meals included.

We drive out to Melikawat ruins this morning, an archaeological site which still contains the remains of its walls, glass and pottery.

We travel back to Hotan and explore the cultural museum. We will also have the opportunity to visit either a Silk or Carpet workshop.

Tonight we take a short flight to Kashgar.

All meals included.

June 3rd | Turpan

June 8th | Kashgar

Our touring today begins with a drive to Bezelik to explore the Cave of 1,000 Buddhas. Next, we visit the Flaming Cliffs and Toyuq village.

After lunch, we delve into the ancient citadel of Jiaohe and explore the ruins. Finally, we travel to the ruins of Gaochang, an ancient oasis city located on the edge of the Taklamakan Desert.

All meals included.

June 4th | Turpan - Urumqi

We start our day at the Turpan Karez Paradise, a museum featuring Turpan’s water management system. After, we board a train to Urumqi and upon arrival this afternoon, we tour the town and visit the Confucian Temple.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 5th | Urumqi

This morning we visit Xinjiang Autonomous Regional Museum, home to a large number of cultural relics which have been discovered in the region. After pausing for lunch, we venture through Shuimogou Park home to stunning water features, and the Erdaoqiao Grand Bazaar, the perfect place to pick up souvenirs.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 6th | Urumqi - Hotan

A late morning flight brings us to Hotan and our stay in this oasis will be a true adventure. Touring here will include the Imam Asim Tomb, a popular pilgrimage site. If there is time this afternoon, we will also visit Rawaq Pagoda and the White Jade River. Tonight, we wander the market on the main public square.

All meals included.

Today, Kashgar continues its role as a cultural crossroads, as traders still cross the borders with the former Soviet Republics and Pakistan, to trade in the local markets. We have the chance to visit the Afaq Khoja Mausoleum, one of the holiest Muslim sites in China. After, we venture through the old town of Kashgar and explore the Heytgah Mosque.

All meals included.

June 9th | Kashgar

We start our day with a drive to the Three Immortals Buddhist Caves and view them from across the river. After lunch, we visit the Grand Sunday’s Bazaar, one of the largest and more colorful markets in China. We will also visit the Shipton’s Arch and then visit the livestock market. Tonight, we will have dinner as a group in the style of a banquet, bringing out the local flavor of the region.

All meals included.

June 10th | Kashgar - Beijing

We leave Kashgar and catch a flight back to Beijing. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure. Perhaps take the time to revisit your favorite sites on your own, venture to places still on your bucket list, or to just relax and unwind at the hotel. Later we enjoy a farewell dinner together.

All meals included.

June 11th | Depart Beijing

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 3 nights in Beijing: 4*

2 nights in Urumqi: 5*

2 nights in Xi’an: 5*

1 night in Hotan: 4*

2 nights in Jiayuguan: 5*

3 nights in Kashgar: 5*

2 nights in Dunhuang: 5*

1 night in Beijing: 4*

Urumqi Kashgar

Turpan Dunhuang Bejing

Jiayuguan Hotan Xian

2 nights in Turpan: 4* A/C coach, train, regional flights: Xi’an - Jiayuguan, Urumqi - Hotan, Hotan - Kashgar, Kasghar - Beijing

China

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/chw

53

ALONG THE BALTIC SHORES Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia 14 Days | June 4th - 17th $5,230 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $995

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St. Nicholas’ Church, a Medieval former church in Tallinn, Estonia

Our Lady of the Sign Church, Vilnius, Lithuania

VILNIUS - PALANGA - LEIPAJA - RIGA - TALLINN A preconception that the adjoining Baltic States of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are essentially similar could not be wider of the mark. While one common characteristic may be their relatively modest size, in key respects - culture, language, traditions and temperament - each has its own identity and spotting the differences can definitely add to the enjoyment of our tour.

Their three ancient coastal capitals - Vilnius (Lithuania), Riga (Latvia) and Tallinn (Estonia) - are steeped in history and offer a feast of architectural appeal. Tallinn is the smallest and its picturesque Medieval Lower Town was named a UNESCO site; Riga is the largest and is notable for its array of Art Nouveau buildings; while the Baroque is preeminent in Vilnius, which also claims Europe’s oldest and most extensive Medieval town. In all three, labyrinths of old town lanes, cobbed stone squares and lofty church spires have been restored to new life in today’s post-Soviet era.

The Baltic States’ turbulent past of conquest and partition over the centuries is also explored on our tour through a balanced program of museum visits, ranging from Vilnius’ important Amber Museum, to the Araisi Archaeological Park in Tallinn. The Baltics also major in Medieval castles - both fairytale and ghostly - and castle connoisseurs are bound to appreciate the many examples featured throughout our vibrant and engaging itinerary.

Tour Highlights Explore Lithuania’s Kernave Medieval Complex, where hillforts, settlements and burial sites show activity from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages Visit the enchanting Medieval lake castle of Trakai, whose stunning island setting hides a long and surprisingly violent history Trace the captivating story of the Amber trade, which was so important to the Baltic economies throughout the years Compare the three great cathedrals of the Baltics as we visit Vilnius, Riga and finally Tallinn Discover Latvia’s picture-book little Medieval town of Kuldiga and its castle, and look at Grobinia Medieval castle, along with the nearby hillfort and settlement

Expert Scholar Prof. John Hines is a Professor in the School of History and Archaeology at Cardiff University, and is a specialist in the archaeology of the early medieval period. By combining research in literature, language and archaeology, he researches the relationship between texts and objects in Viking society.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/bal

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY June 4th | Vilnius

We arrive into Vilnius and transfer to our first hotel. We take the remainder of the day to just relax after traveling, and come together for an introductory lecture and welcome dinner later on.

Dinner included.

June 5th | Vilnius

Our day begins with a walking tour of Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, and we make our first stop at the university campus. From here, we go to the Amber Museum Gallery, which is a 17th century Baroque building that tells the history of the region’s amber. At the National Museum, we view collections from Prehistoric to postMedieval times. Next, we visit the Ducal Palace, built in the 15th century for the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and we also visit several Orthodox and Catholic churches.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 6th | Vilnius

This morning, we leave our hotel and drive to Trakai. Upon arrival, we visit the Karaite Ethnographic Museum, which houses an array of interesting artifacts in exhibitions that showcase the life, culture and history and the Karaite communities in the Ukraine, Lithuania and Poland. Next, we walk out to the picturesque Trakai Island Castle for a tour. If the weather is kind to us, we will enjoy an optional lake cruise in the afternoon, which lasts around an hour. Afterwards, we make our return to Vilnius.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 7th | Vilnius - Palanga

A trip to the Kernave Medieval Complex gets our day off to a great start. Located in the valley of the River Neris, the hillforts, settlements and burial sites here show activity from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages. From here, we travel on to Kaunas, a historic city located on the banks of the Nemunas River, where we explore the old town and visit the 14th century castle. The castle here was one of the first stone castles to be built in Lithuania, but it is the only one in the country with two rows of defensive walls. We continue to Palanga.

All meals included.

Riga Castle, Latvia

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June 8th | Palanga

This morning we visit Memel Castle. Built by the Teutonic Knights, this has been the focus of extensive excavations, which may still be in progress during our visit. We also see the theater balcony where Hitler gave his famous speech in 1939 when the Memel Land was annexed to Nazi Germany. From here, we pay a visit to the Fisherman’s Ethnographic Homestead in the quaint fishing village of Nida. This village is dramatically located on the amazing sliver of white sand that marks the westernmost point of Lithuania and, while we’re here, we also tour the Neringa Museum of History and Thomas Mann’s House before returning to Palanga.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 9th | Palanga - Liepaja

We explore the Baltic resort of Palanga this morning. Once the start of the amber trail, small pieces of this fossilized resin still regularly wash ashore here. Visit the hillfort and walk through the Botanic Garden to reach the Amber Museum, which is housed within a former palace. The museum boasts an impressive collection of amber - around 28,000 pieces - and 15,000 of these contain fragments of insects and plants. Artwork and jewelry are also on display here.

Following a stop for lunch, we cross into Latvia and spend time exploring Grobina Medieval castle, which was destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout history. We also see the hillfort and the accompanying settlement area. Later on, we visit the nearby barrow cemetery.

All meals included.

June 10th | Liepaja - Riga

Our day begins at the Liepaja Museum, where we admire the collections that showcase the history of this area. Archaeological artifacts and cultural objects can also be seen here. Afterwards, we drive to Kuldiga, an early member of the powerful Hanseatic League and an architectural gem whose historic buildings remain much unchanged since the 18th century. Here, we walk the narrow streets lined with well-preserved wooden buildings and visit the District Museum. In the afternoon, we journey to Riga.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... *

June 11th | Riga

Get to know the town of Riga with an informative and scenic walking tour this morning. We view the old town, museum, cathedral and Lutheran churches in Latvia’s charming capital. The foundation stone of Riga cathedral was laid in 1211 and the tower stands at around 140 meters. Founded in 1201, the old town is a World Heritage Site. After lunch, we have the afternoon to spend how we wish. Perhaps take this opportunity to explore Riga Castle or the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, which was established in 1993.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 12th | Riga - Tallinn

A fascinating morning awaits us today as we drive to the archaeological park, which is located at Araisi. Upon our arrival here, we spend some time exploring this fantastic site, which is home to an authentic replica of a 9th-10th century fortified dwelling site of the Latgallians as well as reconstructions of Stone and Bronze Age houses. We also discover the Medieval castle before making the drive to Estonia’s vibrant and surprising capital of Tallinn, which will be our next destination. This exciting European hub manages to remain peaceful, but feels lively as you wander its streets.

All meals included.

June 13th | Tallinn

The chance to get better acquainted with beautiful Tallinn is ours and we begin our first full day here with a walking tour of the city. This vibrant UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonderfully preserved Medieval city. Today we visit St. Nicholas Church, the Town Hall, the cathedral, and also the House of the Blackheads. Later on, we take a tour of Estonia’s State Maritime Museum, which was founded in 1935 and showcases the country’s strong maritime heritage and culture.

Breakfast & lunch included.

that sits on a hill in a central part of the city. Today, this castle houses the Parliament of Estonia and is considered the origin of the city.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 15th | Tallinn

This morning we travel to Varbola, a native Estonian hillfort. Its huge earthworks remain impressive after once defending a Prehistoric and early Medieval settlement. Next, we make our way to Koluvere Castle, a 13th century ecclesiasitcal fortress that was later owned by imperial Russia and built on artificial land. The checkered history of Lihula, which we visit next, involved the key players in Estonia’s history and was once a major center of the Teuonic Knight.

Breakfast & lunch included.

June 16th | Tallinn

Today, we travel to the Padise Cistercian Monastery, which was founded after 1283 and whose turbulent history mirrors that of Estonia. Created after inventions by the Teutonic Knights, and encouraged by Christianising Danish kings, it survived the native revolt of St. George’s Night and became a fortified manor following the Swedish conquest. Next, it’s on to Haapsalu, here we visit its Medieval castle of the Bishopric of Osel-Wiek. Afterwards, we return to Tallinn, stopping at the atmospheric 13th century church of Ridala en route. There will be free time to pack before we enjoy our final group dinner.

All meals included.

June 17th | Depart Tallinn

This morning, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

June 14th | Tallinn

In the morning, we head to the Estonia History Museum, which is housed within an old Great Guild Hall. Exhibits here share the stories of Estonia’s past and themes include wars and Medieval trade, for example. Later, we pay a visit to Toompea Castle, a sturdy structure

Tour Information

Tallinn

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

Estonia

3 nights in Vilnius: 5*

Araisi

2 nights in Palanga: 5*

Liepaja Riga

1 night in Liepaja: 5*

Latvia

2 nights in Riga: 4* 5 nights in Tallinn: 4*

Klaipeda

Palanga

Lithuania Kernave

A/C coach, lake boat

Trakai

Vilnius

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/bal

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CELTS, VIKINGS & SAINTS Ireland 15 Days | July 18th - 1st August $7,990 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,150

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Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin

Roundtower of Glendalough

DUBLIN - KILKENNY - KINSALE - KILLARNEY - GALWAY - SLIGO - BELFAST - DUBLIN Ireland’s serene and welcoming rural landscapes, fringed by one the most beautiful of Europe’s coastlines, are peppered with a plethora of prehistoric and historical sites, elegant country houses and unique cultural monuments. They all fuse into a remarkably fertile and much excavated 5,000-years-old hunting-ground for the archaeologically-minded traveler looking to acquire insights into an ancient civilization of a distinctly ‘different’ kind.

Although evidence exists of earlier influences from afar (such as megalithic passage-graves that may have originated in Brittany, Portugal or Spain), until invasion and settlement by seafaring Vikings in the 9th century Ireland’s relative remoteness had largely sheltered its societies from the ceaseless turmoil previously afflicting the rest of Europe.

A major surviving legacy imprint from the long pre-Viking era is that of the Iron Age Celts, whose tradition began a thousand years earlier in central Europe and whose ancient language is still preserved here. Ireland’s other dominant cultural legacy is owed to the arrival of St Patrick and other Christian missionaries in the early 5th century - when the old indigenous pagan practices were suffused into the new religion and the rich culture of Celtic monasticism and scholarship began to blossom.

Tour Highlights Follow the trail of Ireland’s past civilizations - Iron Age Celtic, Viking and early-Christian - on this all-encompassing exploration of the Emerald Isle Visit Dublin’s famous Trinity College library to admire the illuminated Book of Kells, created by Celtic monks and one of the great treasures of medieval Europe Witness breathtaking views around the Ring of Kerry, a circular tourist route located in south-west Ireland Relish in the opportunity to explore the iconic sites of Belfast, and cheers on our final night with a Guinness or two Experience the wealth of heritage and culture that Ireland has to offer on this unforgettable tour

Expert Scholar Prof. Charles Doherty recently retired as a senior lecturer in Early Irish History at University College, Dublin. He has written numerous articles on the cult of St. Patrick, the concept of the monastic town, the impact of Vikings upon Ireland and on the evolution of settlement in early Ireland. Professor Doherty is looking forward to introducing us to his Ireland.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/ire

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY July 18th | Dublin

We arrive into Dublin and transfer to our first hotel where we will meet for dinner.

Dinner included.

July 19th | Dublin

Our first morning will be dedicated to the spectacular finds exhibited in the National Museum. The museum houses artifacts from 7000 BC to the 20th century, including the largest collection of Bronze Age gold in the world. The centerpiece of the collection is the Ardagh Chalice, which dates back to 800 CE. After lunch, touring continues to some of the major monuments of the city, including Merrion Square, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the national cathedral of Ireland, and Trinity College to see the Book of Kells.

Breakfast & lunch included.

July 20th | Dublin

We visit the magnificent prehistoric sites of Newgrange and Knowth.

It is believed that the megalithic passage tomb of Newgrange, which boasts a white quartz facade, would have taken a workforce of about three hundred and twenty years to complete. Knowth is the largest passage grave of the Brú na Bóinne complex and consists of a large mound and 17 smaller satellite tombs. We also visit the Hill of Tara, one of the most important royal sites of early Ireland. Here we will discover the stories surrounding its Fort of the Kings, as well as the Stones of Destiny.

Breakfast & lunch included.

July 21st | Dublin - Kilkenny

Driving south, our touring begins at Glendalough, a 6th- century monastic settlement set in a lovely glaciated valley. The monastic remains include beehive huts, grave slabs, crosses and early churches.

Continuing south we stop at Old Kilkullen to view the remains of an Iron Age hill-fort, a round tower, and 9th-century crosses. At Brownshill, we find a dolmen with a capstone that is said to weigh 100 tons. If time allows, we will also see a finely sculptured 9thcentury high cross and a Franciscan abbey at Castledermot.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery

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July 22nd | Kilkenny - Cork

Touring begins at the imposing Jerpoint Abbey. Built in 1160 by the King of Ossory, the ruins are renowned for the 15th-century cloister and the unique carvings in the sculptured cloister arcade.

Our next stop is the famous Cathedral known as the Rock of Cashel, stunningly situated on a 200-foot high outcrop of limestone. Once the seat of the Kings of Munster, St. Patrick visited the rock in 450 and Brian Boru was crowned the first High King of Ireland here in the 10th century. Our day ends in Cork, a historic trading port situated on the River Lee. All meals included.

July 23rd | Cork - Killarney

We depart for Kinsale to enjoy a morning at leisure in this Medieval town. Later, we journey to Charles Fort, a massive star-shaped structure built by Sir William Robinson in 1677, that was in continuous use until 1921. The fort was constructed on the earlier stronghold of Ringcurran Castle, whose defenses were featured during the Siege of Kinsale in 1601. We then continue to the Drombeg Stone Circle, an impressive group of 14 stones dated to 100 BC and aligned to the midsummer sunset. We end our day in Killarney, which will be our home for the next two nights.

Breakfast & lunch included.

July 24th | Killarney

The most famous and panoramic route in Ireland can be found exploring the Ring of Kerry. En route, take in the mountains, peat bogs, lakes and magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean as we travel along the coastal road. During our drive, we explore Staigue Hillfort, one of the largest and finest of the stone forts in Ireland — and the Skelling Experience Heritage Center, dedicated to teaching visitors about the 6th - 12th century monastic sites and the renowned bird sanctuary which is situated on the small islands.

Breakfast & lunch included.

July 25th | Killarney - Galway

Today begins with a long drive to the Clonmacnoise Monastery and upon arrival, we explore the burial place of the Kings of Connaught

This tour has a physical rating of... * and Tara. The site includes the ruins of a cathedral, seven 10th-13th century churches, two round towers and Western Europe’s largest collection of Early Christian grave slabs. Most of the ruins here have undergone comprehensive conservation works.

All meals included.

July 26th | Galway

This morning we sail to the Aran Island of Inishmore, a magnificent island bearing a wealth of both pre-Christian and Christian features and monuments. Here we will visit some of the island’s spectacular sites beginning at Dun Aenghus, a dramatic dry-stone fort set on the very edge of a cliff 200 feet above the sea. Our next visit is na Seacht dTeampaill, Seven Churches complex. We have free time in Kilronan, capital of Inishmor, before boarding the ferry back to the mainland.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Grianan of Aileach. Built on the site of an older hill fort, in prehistory it was thought to be a place of sun worship, or the place of hibernation of Gráine, a Celtic sun-goddess. After lunch, we continue to Derry to enjoy a walking tour of one of the finest intact examples of a walled town in Europe. In AD 1613, the walls of Derry were built to protect the town from the Gaelic cheiftans in Donegal. Rising to a height of 8m and 9m wide in some areas. Today, these walls separate two communities, the Bogside — a Catholic ghetto with its famous murals — and the Waterside, a Protestant enclave.

Breakfast included.

July 30th | Belfast

Our day will be spent at Ceide Fields, Europe’s largest Neolithic land enclosure. Bog growth has covered most of the settlement over the last 5000 years, which has helped to preserve it. Recent excavations have revealed Stone Age pottery and a well-used primitive plough.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Our day today is devoted entirely to Belfast. We will enjoy a city tour and visits include the leaning Albert Memorial Clock Tower and the Opera House, which is one of Belfast’s great landmarks.

We will also see St. Anne’s Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral; the political murals of West Belfast; and the narrow alleys known as The Entries. After lunch we will venture a few miles out of Belfast to see the last prehistoric monument of our tour, the Giant’s Ring, an impressive earthwork, 600 feet in diameter, with a megalithic chamber in the center thought to date to 3000 BC. Breakfast & lunch included.

July 28th | Sligo

July 31st | Belfast - Dublin

July 27th | Galway - Sligo

We begin our day at the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, the largest megalithic cemetery in Ireland, with over 60 passagegraves, dolmen, a large cairn and stone circles. We then continue to Drumcliff where, in addition to viewing a high cross (AD 1000) showing fine sculptures of biblical scenes, we will take a literary break to visit W.B. Yeats’s grave. Then at Creevykeel, where artifacts dated to 2500 BC have been excavated, we will see one of the finest Court Cairns in Ireland. The oldest grave dates from 3200 BC. We return to Sligo for an independent evening, perhaps wonder its natural harbor which once saw trade from Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Our last day brings us back to Dublin, with time for an afternoon at leisure. You may like to explore its great galleries, green parks or even the old Guinness factory! We enjoy our farewell dinner at one of the city’s fine restaurants.

Breakfast & dinner included.

August 1st | Depart Dublin

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

July 29th | Sligo - Belfast

After breakfast, we drive to the reconstructed circular stone fort,

Tour Information

Derry Belfast

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 3 nights in Dublin: 4*

2 nights in Sligo: 3*

1 night in Kilkenny: 4*

2 nights in Belfast: 4*

1 night in Cork: 4*

1 night in Dublin: 4*

Sligo

Galway

Dublin

2 nights in Killarney: 3* Kilkenny

2 nights in Galway: 4* Killarney

A/C coach

Cork

Ireland

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/ire

61

LOST CITIES OF THE INCAS Peru 17 Days | August 23rd - 8th September $7,380 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,200

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Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu, Peru

Market on the street of Ollantaytambo

LIMA - CHICLAYO - TRUJILLO - CASMA - YUCAY - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO - LIMA With many of its Andes peaks soaring to over 20,000ft, Peru’s spectacular rooftop world, home of the condor and llama, makes a fitting stage for a journey of discovery into this colorful South American country’s dramatic and myth-wrapped past.

Its story is an absorbing one of ancient indigenous empires, both pre-Inca (some perhaps dating back 5,000 years) and Inca, and the handful of 16th century Spanish conquistadors who vanquished them. Peru’s eventful legacy will capture the imagination of even the most seasoned traveler when confronted here with the mysteries of its wealth of archaeological and anthropological treasures – some reluctant to this day to yield the secrets of an Inca culture that had no knowledge of the wheel and left no written language or documentation.

Our tour unravels some of these enduring enigmas as we travel to excavated sites of battles, fortresses, palaces and sacred Inca temples – and, as importantly, fascinating artifact-rich museums. We travel to Peru’s colonial capital of Lima; Cusco, one-time Inca capital and oldest inhabited city in the Americas; outstanding pre-Columbian sites that include Chan Chan, Caral, Tucume, Huaca Rajada – and, of course, to iconic mountain-top Machu Picchu, the stunning Inca redoubt that remains among the greatest and most haunting archaeological discoveries of modern times.

Tour Highlights Take the Vistadome train for a spectacular journey through the Urubamba River gorge to legendary Machu Picchu, discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 Wander among the Moche pyramids, and the compounds of Chan Chan, the nearby imperial city of the Chimú, and possibly the world’s largest adobe city Explore the Incas’ Sacred Valley of the Urubamba, Pisac’s lively handicrafts market and the vast site of Pisac Discover the recently excavated city known as Caral, believed to be 5,000 years old, making it the oldest city in the Americas Visit the striking Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum near Chiclayo, amongst the largest of its kind in South America

Expert Scholar Prof. John W. Rick is Associate Professor and Chair of Anthropological Sciences at Stanford University, Curator of Anthropological Collections, and past Director of Stanford’s Archaeology Center. His teaching concentrates on South American archaeology. For the last 13 years he has directed fieldwork at Chavín de Huántar.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/per

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY August 23rd | Lima

We arrive into Lima and transfer to our first hotel where we will meet for dinner.

Dinner included.

August 24th | Lima

After an orientation meeting with Professor Rick, touring begins at National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History of Peru. This superb collection houses more than 100,000 artifacts spanning the entire history of human occupation in Peru. It will give us an introduction to the sites we will be visiting throughout our tour.

After lunch, touring will continue to colonial Lima with visits to the area around the Plaza de Armas to see the Palacio de Gobierno, the Archbishop’s Palace and to visit the Cathedral.

Breakfast & lunch included.

August 25th | Lima - Chiclayo

Our touring this morning will be to pre-Inca archaeological site and complex of Pachacamac, which was once an important ceremonial center for the Lima culture beginning at around AD 100. Here, we will examine the 1,300-year-old remains of some of the temples, pyramids and stone palaces. We will also see the reconstructed House of the Mamaconas. We then transfer to the airport for a late afternoon flight to vibrant Chiclayo, known as being one of Peru’s fastestgrowing modern cities.

All meals included.

August 26th | Chiclayo

Touring today will include Bosque de Pomac, a desert-thorn forest of mesquite, where excavations have revealed a fascinating sanctuary of the middle Sicán period (900-1100 AD), known as Batán Grande.

The site consists of 50 adobe pyramids, from which many of the gold objects we have seen were excavated. Archaeologists have excavated Huaca Loro, one of the five temples that form the Great Plaza.

Touring continues at Túcume, which encompasses the remains of 26 pyramids as well as many smaller structures built around 1100 AD by the Lambayeque people.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Aden Mountain at Plaza de Armas, Cusco, Peru

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August 27th | Chiclayo

The day begins at the site where the Sipán tomb was discovered.

We then visit the wonderful Sicán National Museum in Ferreñafe, which documents the ancient Sicán culture. The remainder of the day will be spent at the new Royal Tombs Museum, where the fabulous artifacts from Sipán are on view.

Breakfast & lunch included.

August 28th | Chiclayo - Trujillo

Our drive today takes us south along the Pan American Highway to Trujillo. We will stop en route for lunch and visits to the excavations at El Brujo, a ceremonial center for several cultures, including the Moche, and, if time allows, to Huaca Prieta, one of the oldest middens in the world.

Breakfast & lunch included.

August 29th | Trujillo

Touring today will include the Moche pyramids, known as the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Moon, and the imperial city of the Chimú, Chan Chan. Considered to be the largest adobe city in the world, Chan Chan consists of nine compounds, each containing a platform burial mound built for the king and his treasures. They also held huge walk-in wells and rows of storerooms for the agricultural wealth of the kingdom. Within the city walls were palaces, temples, workshops, houses and gardens. Canals kept the city supplied with water. We also visit the nearby “Rainbow Temple,” known as the Huaca Dragón for its well-preserved dragon relief, and the Archaeological Museum.

Breakfast & lunch included.

August 30th | Trujillo - Casma

Our scenic drive to Casma passes through the Virú Valley, famous for the 1940s Virú Valley Project, and the fishing port of Chimbote, scene of José María Arguedas’s last novel. We will visit the small Max Uhle Museum and the Initial Period site of Cerro Sechín, renowned for its unique stone carvings. Our last stop will be the early templefortress of Chankillo. We will spend the night in the village of Casma.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... ***

August 31st | Casma - Lima

This exciting day takes us to the newly excavated city known as Caral. About 120 miles north of Lima in the Supe Valley, a team headed by Peruvian archaeologist Ruth Shady Solís unearthed a city they believe to be 5,000 years old, making it the oldest city in the Americas. It would have been a thriving city at the time that Egypt’s great pyramids were being built. The archaeologists were amazed at the size and complexity of the city as they uncovered a huge staircase, pyramids, a large sunken amphitheater, residential complexes and countless artifacts. After completing our touring, we return to Lima.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 1st | Lima - Yucay

After a flight to Cusco, a wonderful drive will take us into the Sacred Valley. Touring today will include the colorful Pisac market and the vast site of Pisac, which consists of three hill fortifications of exceptional masonry. It is surrounded by extensive and very wellpreserved terraces.

All meals included.

September 2nd | Yucay

Touring today begins with Ollantaytambo, a massive Inca fortress from which the advances of Hernando Pizarro were repelled in AD 1536. It provides us with good examples of canchas, corral enclosures, and an intact irrigation system. Here too we will see how the Inca used masonry to close the valley against attack and to channel the river. Our lunch will be at the Wayra Ranch and will be accompanied by a Peruvian Paso horse show. The day ends with a visit to the Center for Traditional Textiles. This center houses a weaving cooperative, school for young girls and a shelter for women in distress.

All meals included.

September 3rd | Yucay - Machu Picchu

This morning we will board the Vistadome train for our spectacular journey through the Urubamba River gorge to Machu Picchu.

Unknown to all but the local villagers until 1911, Machu Picchu remains a somewhat mysterious city. Its fine stonework and extensive ornamentation suggest an important ceremonial center. Why it was

abandoned may never be known. Our two days here will give us ample time to explore it thoroughly from our centrally located hotel.

All meals included.

September 4th | Machu Picchu - Cusco

We have the entire day at leisure to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu. The bus operates to the site at regular intervals, You may wish to spend the morning climbing the peak of Huayna Picchu. This must be booked in advance as limited number of people permitted each day. The Vistadome train departs for Cusco in the late afternoon.

Upon arrival, we check in to our next hotel.

Breakfast included

September 5th | Cusco

Today we will visit the fortress or sanctuary of Sacsayhuamán, built from enormous stones fitted together with absolute precision. We continue to the ruins of Qenko, translated as “zigzag,” so named for the large rock that is completely covered with carvings and zigzag channels. Lastly, we stop at Puca Pucara (red fortress). Built from irregular shaped stoned, the site is believed to have been used as a guard post that protected access to Cusco.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 6th | Cusco

We will tour the city’s highlights, including the new Museum of PreColumbian Art, which houses an excellent collection of material from the Larco Museum in Lima, as well as colonial paintings and wood sculpture. In the afternoon we enjoy a walking tour of the city. Our farewell dinner will be at one of Cusco’s fine new restaurants.

All meals included

September 7th | Cusco - Lima

After a morning spent at leisure, perhaps packing or just making the most of our final full day, we fly onward to Lima.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 8th | Depart Lima

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

Chiclayo

2 nights in Lima: 4*

2 nights in Yucay: 4*

3 nights in Chiclayo: 4*

1 night in Machu Picchu: 5*

2 nights in Trujillo: 5*

3 nights in Cusco: 4*

1 night in Casma: 3*

1 night in Lima: 4*

Trujillo

Casma

Lima

1 night in Lima: 4* A/C coach, regional flights: Lima - Chiclayo, Lima - Cusco, Cusco - Lima

Yucay

Peru

Machu Pichu

Cusco

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/per

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IN THE SHADOWS OF ANCIENT ARTISTS Spain & France 15 Days | September 15th - 29th $9,890 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,750

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Incredible cave art in Lascaux

Medieval stone bridge at Cahors, France

MADRID - BURGOS - SANTILLANA DEL MAR - HONDARRIBIA - PLAT GIRON - CAHORS LES EYEZIES DE TAYAC - BARJAC - MARSEILLES Memorably complemented by a trans-Pyrenean journey through the splendid scenery of northeast Spain and across southwest France, this innovative itinerary is themed around a variety of opportunities to study at first hand some of Europe’s finest cave art and, with the aid of expert interpretation, to gain a true understanding of its uniquely important cultural and historical significance.

Across their long time-span of up to some 30,000 years, these images and the methods used to create them have revealed to anthropologists many important clues into the evolution of the early human mind. The ancient subterranean caverns housing them also hold keys to other practices from an even earlier past before Neanderthals gave way to modern humans. The Castillo cave complex in Spanish Cantabria can even boast archaeological levels 130,000 years old.

Our route through France encompasses wider time horizons on occasion as we fast-forward through encounters with eventful chapters of this region’s tumultuous history - from Viking invasions, Albigensian crusades and Santiago pilgrimages to the Hundred Years’ War and church schisms. None of these will trouble us today though, especially during a relaxing visit to the beautiful Dordogne, an area widely renowned for its outstanding cuisine and wines.

Tour Highlights Discover amazing examples of the earliest forms of human creativity and expression through cave art created originating as long as 30,000 years ago View the accomplished Chauvet cave replica, the most spectacular early Homo sapiens imagery ever uncovered Explore the famous Niaux cave and the paintings of the cathedral-like Black Salon with a prehistory scholar as your guide Enjoy delicious regional cuisines and local wines - and enjoy luxurious stays in beautiful hotels See the incredible grand ceiling at the Rouffignac cave and wander the newly opened replica center, Lascaux VI

Expert Scholar Dr. Roy Larick has worked in southwest France for more than 10 years as Associate of the Direction des Antiquités Préhistoriques d’Aquitaine.

His research has focused mainly on the role of artists during the European Upper Palaeolithic period. He is currently a Professor of Anthropology at the University of Iowa.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/cav

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY September 15th | Madrid

We arrive into Madrid and transfer to our first hotel where we will meet for dinner.

Dinner included.

September 16th | Madrid - Burgos

This morning, we enjoy a welcome lecture where our scholar introduces us to the multifaceted, millennia-old history and archaeology of this region. Afterwards, we drive to visit the ruins of Burgos Castle, the history of which stretches from Roman times to the Peninsular War. Archaeological explorations of the area around the castle have also found evidence of ancient prehistoric settlements on the hill which the ruins of the castle now sit. This evening, we enjoy a welcome lecture, where our scholar introduces us to the multifaceted, millennia-old history and archaeology of this region.

Breakfast & dinner included.

September 17th | Burgos - Santillana Del Mar

We begin at Atapuerca. The caves here hold some of the earliest evidence of Homo sapiens in Europe, with fossil and skeletal remains dating back almost one million years. A combination of archaeological excavation, DNA analysis and other scientific techniques have revealed incredible detail about the way of life of our most remote ancestors. We then head north to Cantabria, stopping for lunch at El Convento, a former Cluniac monastery. This afternoon we visit the Monte Castillo cave complex, with archaeological levels 130,000 years old. Inside we come face-to-face with painted bison and mammoth. Our hotel for the next two nights is in the lovely town of Santillana de Mar with cobbled streets and medieval-houses aplenty.

All meals included.

September 18th | Santillana Del Mar

We visit the amazing World Heritage Site of El Pindal this morning, where a beautiful horse is perfectly depicted in the cave, and both fish and mammoth representations can be seen. These are particularly notable pieces because fish are infrequently found in the Palaeolithic art of this region. From here, we continue on to Ribadesella to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tito Bustillo, a vast alcove-rich Les Eyzies, France

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cave and one of the most important Palaeolithic art sites in the entire world. There is also a striking new museum located in this site, which we take time to visit, too. Sealed away for millennia, ancient works of art depicting deer, moose, and horses are remarkably preserved, despite dating from up to 40,000 years ago.

All meals included.

September 19th | Santillana Del Mar - Hondarribia

We enjoy a visit to the Altamira II replica cave and museum, which has excellent interpretive materials. Dating suggests that Altamira’s Great Ceiling animal assemblage was decorated 35,000 to 14,000 years ago. Farther back in deep alcoves, we see anthropomorphic masks. We then drive east along the Cantabrian coast, known for its mountain-ringed estuaries. Entering the Basque country, we visit the replica cave of Ekain. Declared a World Heritage Site in 2008, the original cave is home to engravings up to 14,000 years old.

The animals depicted include horse, bison, goats and deer – often depicted in an exceptionally realistic style. We continue to our hotel, built inside a medieval fortress, which itself dates to the 10th century, complete with thick stone walls, vaulted ceilings and courtyards.

All meals included.

September 20th | Hondarribia - St. Girons

We begin our ascent into the foothills of the Pyrénées, a land of cave art and striking Cathar castles. Our first stop here is Saint-Bertrand de-Comminges, which was founded on an important Gallo-Roman city of the Pyrénées. The hilltop town is best known for its Gothic cathedral, which dominates the landscape. After lunch, we continue on to the evocative Gargas cave, which is world-famous for its stenciled hand-print alcoves and fissures, drenched in red ochre. The Gargas cave has also shown evidence of occupation as bones and stone tools have been recovered there, along with the engravings of bison, ibex and aurochs.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 21st | St Girons

In Niaux’s cathedral-like Black Salon, we find alcoves painted with horse, bison and ibex. Visits are conducted by flashlight, the

This tour has a physical rating of... *** dim light gives an even greater feeling of connection with the people who first painted these walls over 13,000 years ago and the atmosphere created will make for a memorable visit. We move onto the incomparable site of Mas-d’Azil: Carolingian abbey and crucial Protestant stronghold. As our bus tracks along the Arize River, we explore the Mas-d’Azil cave. We return to St Girons have free time to explore this charming town on the Sarlat river.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 22nd | St Girons - Cahors

September 24th, 25th & 26th | Les Eyzies De Tayac

The following three days focus mainly on Paleolithic caves, important medieval fortifications and, of course, the most beautiful countryside.

Our program includes Abri Cro-Magnon, discovered in 1868 by Louis Lartet, where famous burial finds date back some 27,000 years.

We also spend time at the Upper Paleolithic rock shelter at Abri Pataud, where human remains and stone tools were recovered, and archaeologists’ techniques can be explored. During these three days, we will pay a visit to the rock shelters at La Roque-Saint Christophe, France’s most amazing example of a medieval stronghold. We enjoy a miniature train ride to view drawings of mammoth and rhino, as well as admire the incomparable Grand Ceiling at Rouffignac Cave.

We also get close to Neanderthal skeletons and grave goods at the incredible National Museum of Prehistory and most excitingly, we will have an opportunity to visit the exciting new Lascaux IV replica.

Breakfast & lunch included, and dinner on 26th.

We head northward across the Garonne Valley to Quercy – the land of spectacular caves. In Cahors, the Pont Valentré is a pilgrimage route and engineering marvel; the bridge was built in the 14th century and has no fewer than six gothic arches and three fortified towers. After lunch, we explore the immense, flowstone-laden galleries and famous decorated alcoves of Peche Merle, including the Spotted Horses and evocative human hand-prints. Described by Teyssédou as “an art gallery in a palace of nature,” Peche Merle was lost until 1922, when it was discovered (and explored in some detail) by two local teenage boys, aided and abetted by the local priest-comearchaeologist, Father Amedee Lemozi. This particular cave has been open to the public since 1926, but groups that enter have to be limited in size so as not to endanger the precious artworks with carbon dioxide produced by breathing, heat or humidity.

Breakfast & lunch included.

We leave Dordogne for a long but scenic drive east, through central France to Vallon-Pont-d’Arc. The Pont d’Arc is a natural stone arch or bridge, crossing the river Ardéche. It stands over 50m high and the river is also a very popular location among the locals for canoeing and kayaking. We make several stops en route at Figeac, Severac-leChateau, and Gorge du Tarn.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 23rd | Cahors - Les Eyzies De Tayac

September 28th | Barjac - Marseilles

We continue northward to the Santiago pilgrimage way-stop of Rocamadour. Here, cliffside chapels preserve Cluniac frescoes and the village itself can only be described as a balancing act. It is noted for its sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which attracts religious visitors. In Souillac, the Byzantine Romanesque Eglise St. Marie has a rare Cluniac sculpture of Isaiah. In Cougnac, we find a small gallery boasting alcoves painted with Irish elk. We end the day at Les-Eyziesde-Tayac, our base for the next four nights. Perched on the Vézère River cliffs, this market town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1979 and lies at the Périgord region’s center.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 27th | Les Eyzies De Tayac - Barjac

Our tour concludes with a visit to the Chauvet replica cave and museum. Chauvet revealed the most spectacular Paleolithic imagery, hundreds of animals of at least 13 different species including lions and hyenas. The paintings are at least 25,000 years old. After this wonderful visit, we drive to Marseilles to enjoy some free time relaxing and reminiscing about our experiences on the tour.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 29th | Depart Marseilles

We transfer to the airport for our individual flights back home or connect for onward travel.

Spain & France

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 1 night in Madrid: 4*

1 night in Cahors: 4*

1 night in Burgos: 4*

4 nights in Les Eyzies: 3*

2 nights in Santillana del Mar: 2*

1 night in Barjac: 4*

1 night in Hondarribia: 5*

1 night in Marseilles: 4*

Les Eyzies

Barjac

Cahors Santillana del Mar

Hondarribia

St Girons

Marseille

Burgos

2 nights in St Girons: 3* Madrid

A/C coach

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/cav

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MEGALITHS & MYTHOLOGIES Scotland & its Islands 17 Days | September 23rd - 9th October $7,980 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $970

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The Callanish Stones during sunrise

Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeen

STORNAWAY - SKYE - OBAN - EDINBURGH - ABERDEEN - INVERNESS KIRKWALL - LERWICK - GLASGOW Amid Scotland’s highlands and islands, framed by dramatic settings of blue-hazed mountains, emerald green valleys and rugged shores, some of Europe’s most ancient standing stones, dating from the Neolithic New Stone Age and Bronze Age, continue to broadcast their voiceless message from millennia long past. One Ancient Greek philosopher even claimed they were the work of a race of giants living on the northern edge of the world. Their purpose (religious or ceremonial perhaps?) largely remains a mystery on which archaeologists can only speculate.

Our wide-ranging tour guides us through the glorious scenery of the Scottish mainland and beyond to the islands of the Hebrides, Orkneys and Shetlands in pursuit of a deeper insight into the origins and purpose of these monumental prehistoric landmarks and their historical context. We’ll encounter stone circles and megalithic tombs; remote and intricately decorated Pictish stelae; towering brochs; stone-built villages; and wild landscapes of peat-covered moors and swift-flowing burns. Equally intriguing are Iron Age remains whose warrior-like creators might feature in later Celtic mythology.

We’ll also visit excellent museums showcasing artifacts of these ancient cultures and those of the Picts, Romans and Vikings, as well as learning about Scotland’s early church and the eventful story of its clans.

Tour Highlights Marvel at the impressive site of Skara Brae’s excavated stone-age village where artifacts 5,000 years old have been uncovered Pay an indulgent visit to a great Oban distillery, where we can learn how single malt whisky is produced - and, of course, we can sample a dram or two Sail the ferry to the legendary Isle of Skye, one of the most scenic and romantic of the Hebridean Islands Visit the fabled Iona island and its abbey, which is thought to be the first Christian site in all of Scotland Take the short boat trip to the Shetlands’ Mousa Island to see the most complete of Scotland’s 500 ancient drystone roundhouses, known as brochs

Expert Scholar Peter Yeoman was the Head of Cultural Heritage at Historic Scotland, with responsibility for the archaeology and the knowledge base for the estate of 345 properties in their care. He has written guidebooks for Iona Abbey, Stirling Castle and Edinburgh Castle, and contributed to Lonely Planet’s guide to Scotland.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/sco

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY September 23rd | Stornaway

We arrive in Stornaway, on the Isle of Lewis, and transfer to our first hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax, before coming together for an introductory lecture and a welcome dinner as a group.

Dinner included.

September 24th | Stornaway

Our stay here gives us an opportunity to explore some of the heathercovered moors and brightly painted villages. However, we have traveled this distance primarily to see the Stones of Callanish, which are among the most important megalithic monuments of the British Isles. The site dates from the Late Stone Age and Early Bronze Age (3000-1500 BC) and has a central cairn, which was a later addition.

We will also visit Dun Carloway Broch, the Museum Nan Eilean, and other ancient and historic monuments.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 25th | Stornaway - Skye

Today we take a leisurely drive to the Isle of Harris, unique in its unspoilt atmosphere and an unusual lunar landscape indented with hundreds of tiny lochs. Here, we visit St. Clement’s Church before boarding our ferry from Tarbert to Uig, located on one of the most scenic islands in the Hebrides – the Isle of Skye.

All meals included.

September 26th | Skye - Oban

Our visits today include the brochs of Dun Telve and Dun Troddan.

Dun Telve, at 10 meters, and Dun Troddan are two of the bestpreserved and informative brochs in Scotland. Built by the Picts 2000 years ago, they demonstrate the defensive nature of these structures.

We then travel through a landscape of craggy hills and glacial lochs on a trip considered to be one of the most scenic journeys in Scotland. We cross the Skye Bridge and continue our touring with a visit to the local Oban Distillery. Here we will learn how single malt is made and taste their smoky, peaty whiskey.

Breakfast & lunch included.

View of the Loch Coruisk Isle of Skye

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September 27th | Oban

We begin with a ferry from Oban via the Island of Mull to the historically important Island of Iona, where St. Columba exiled from Ireland, established a monastic community in AD 563. The Columban Church had a key role in the establishment of Christianity in Scotland until Viking raids caused most of the community to move to Kells, in Ireland. We will visit the Early Christian remains and the medieval abbey and nunnery before returning to Oban.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 28th | Oban - Edinburgh

An early morning drive brings us to Cairnpapple Hill. Here five phases of occupation can be seen, the earliest of the Late Neolithic period, a large burial cairn from the Bronze Age and lastly, four graves probably of the Early Iron Age. We will then visit two forts along the Roman Antonine Wall: the well-preserved Rough Castle and Kinneil, a fortlet that has been excavated and partially reconstructed. We then continue to Edinburgh for two nights at our centrally located hotel.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 29th | Edinburgh

After a morning lecture, our city tour begins with Edinburgh Castle and a walk down the Royal Mile past wonderfully restored 15th- and 17th-century buildings, such as the John Knox House, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the Holyrood Abbey and Palace, official residence of the Queen when she is in town. These sites are imbued with the spirit of Mary Queen of Scots and brings the history of that period to life.

We continues at the National Museum of Scotland, where we will see the fine archaeological collection, illustrating Scottish life and culture.

The rest of the day will be at leisure to visit the city’s landmarks.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 30th | Edinburgh - Aberdeen

Driving north, we enter the center of the Pictish kingdoms, haunted by hill forts and mysterious stone circles. Our first stop is Dunning Church, one of Scotland’s earliest surviving churches, where we see the Dupplin Cross, a 9th century monument dedicated to King

This tour has a physical rating of... ** Constantine found at Forteviot, a Pictish royal site and prehistoric ritual center. En route to Aberlemno, we see four Pictish stones. At Meigle, burial place of faithless Guinevere, we see a collection of early Christian monuments. Our last stop is Dunnottar Castle, steeped in history including William Wallace and the battle against Cromwell’s army that saved the Scottish Crown Jewels and the honor of Scotland.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 1st | Aberdeen - Inverness

We travel through the land of Buchan, stopping to inspect the Maiden Stone en route. At Rhynie, we see the Craw Stane as well as three other Pictish symbol stones. We continue to Inverness, stopping to visit Burghead, a Pictish fort and well with bull carvings, and at Sueno’s Stone, which is covered with mysterious symbols. Our final visit will be at Clava Cairns, built between 2500 and 2000 BC. Breakfast & lunch included.

October 2nd | Inverness - Kirkwall

We drive north along the coast to the ferry at Scrabster, visiting prehistoric sites en route, including the Trabat Discovery Center, a series of Pictish cross slabs at Hilton and Shandwick, The Hill o’Many Stanes - often compared to Brittany’s Carnac - and the Grey Cairns of Camster. An overnight ferry brings us over to the Orkney Islands and its quiet capital, Kirkwall, one of the earliest Norse trading centers.

All meals included.

October 3rd | Kirkwall

Today begins with a visit to the Iron Age settlement of Broch of Gurness, strikingly positioned beside Eynhallow Sound with views across to the island of Rousay. We then take a ferry to the island to see Midhowe, a fabulous broch and cairn with a coastal walk, known as the Westness Walk, visits several archaeological sites. We will enjoy a picnic at the beach with gray seals providing our entertainment.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 4th | Kirkwall

Touring continues today with the Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of War during WWII. We will also visit Scapa Flow, Maes

Howe — the most outstanding Stone Age burial cairn in Britain — and the Kirkwall museum. We have the after to spend at leisure.

Breakfast included.

October 5th | Kirkwall - Sea Ferry

Today we visit the Stone Age settlement of Skara Brae, where excavations revealed houses with stone furnishings, tools and implements after 5,000 years of burial. We then continue to the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stennes and Barnhouse. In Brough of Birsay, we see the remains of Pictish and Norse settlements, where Norse longhouses give a picture of early 12th century life on the islands. Overnight, a ferry takes us to the Shetland Islands.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 6th | Sea Ferry - Lerwick

Upon arrival on the Shetland Islands, we see Old Scatness, an Early Iron Age broch and village built between 400 and 200 BC. Next, we visit Jarlshof and its museum, which has a small collection of finds from the site. Later, a short boat trip brings us to the uninhabited and atmospheric island of Mousa, where we see the most complete of Scotland’s more than 500 brochs.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 7th | Lerwick

Morning visits include Clickimin Broch and the prehistoric sites of Staneydale “Neolithic temple” and nearby standing stones (weather permitting). The Shetland Museum completes our touring.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 8th | Glasgow

Today we fly to Glasgow where we have time at leisure to explore the city on our own. This evening we gather for our farewell dinner.

Breakfast & dinner included.

October 9th | Depart Glasgow

We transfer to the Airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Scotland

Tour Information

Lerwick

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 2 nights in Stornaway: 2*

1 night in Inverness: 4*

1 night in Skye: 3*

3 nights in Kirkwall: 3*

2 nights in Oban: 3*

1 night on the Sea Ferry

2 nights in Edinburgh: 4*

2 nights in Lerwick: 3*

1 night in Aberdeen: 4*

1 night in Glasgow: 4*

Kirkwall

Stornoway

Skye Inverness Aberdeen Oban

A/C coach, ferry Regional flight: Lerwick - Glasgow

Glasgow

Edinburgh

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/sco

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MYTHS & MONUMENTS Greece 15 Days | September 23rd - 7th October $5,995 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,300

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Meteora, Greece

Ancient theater of Epidaurus, Peloponnese, Greece

ATHENS - NAFPLIO - SPARTA - OLYMPIA - DELPHI - KALAMBAKA - THESSALONIKI In perhaps no other nation of the world does the heritage of history confront the traveler as powerfully as in Greece.

Itself heir to the great achievements of the Minoan and Mycenaean peoples of the Aegean Bronze Age, the Classical Greece of 2,500 years ago is acknowledged as the birthplace of modern Western civilization - its cultural legacy still resonant today in the fields of architecture, philosophy, science and government.

The magnificent span of its archaeology, architecture, art and antiquities is the unifying theme of this invitation to our far-ranging and insightful journey into Greece’s ancient roots.

From the iconic Acropolis, eternal symbol of Classical Athens, we travel via Corinth into the Peloponnese to the great healing center and theater at Epidaurus, dedicated to the ancient Greek God of medicine, Asclepius. We explore the Bronze Age sites of fabled Mycenae and Tiryns with their echoes of Greece’s epic ‘heroic age’. At medieval Mystras we view the remains of resplendent Byzantine churches and Frankish castles and, a ‘modern’ contrast with the awesome Panhellenic sanctuaries of Olympia and Delphi to follow. We also have the incredible opportunity to learn about of Alexander the Great’s impact on the eastern Mediterranean at Pella, Vergina and Aigai, while Thessaloniki traces the fascinating transition from the pagan late-Roman era to the world of Byzantium. Rest assured, this 15-day tour will be one to remember.

Tour Highlights Explore Epidaurus, home to the original Olympic Games of the Ancient World, as well as its stadium, gymnasium, wrestling school, temples and hippodrome Marvel at monasteries built atop huge columns of ancient rock pinnacles: Meteora is one of Greece’s most extraordinary sights Enjoy the many flavors of authentic traditional Greek cuisine – try rich and hearty moussaka or fragrant grilled lamb with tzatziki yoghurt sauce Discover the mountainous Peloponnese, Greece’s great southern peninsula, and land of Homer’s heroes and the great Bronze Age citadels from which they came Gaze upon the Statue of Zeus at Olympia, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

Expert Scholar Prof. Gerald Schaus is a retired professor of archaeology and classical studies from Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada. He has a MA from Dalhousie University in Halifax, and a PhD in classical archaeology from the University of Pennsylvania, with a dissertation on the Archaic pottery from Cyrene, Libya. Prof. Schaus has lectured for Archaeological tours in Algeria, Sicily and Greece since 2005.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/gre

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY September 23rd | Athens

We arrive in Athens and transfer to our first hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax after our flight, before enjoying our first dinner as a group.

Dinner included.

September 24th | Athens

The Acropolis is the lasting symbol of classical Athens and the Age of Pericles. Our all-day exploration of this famous site will include the Theater of Dionysus on the south slope, the Acropolis proper, with its Propylaia, Temple of the Wingless Victory, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Acropolis Museum. After a break for a typical Greek lunch, touring continues at the Areopagus and concludes with the Agora, containing the Theseion and Stoa of Attalos.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 25th | Athens

Our art history lessons continue with a full morning in the National Archaeological Museum, with its unsurpassed collection of marbles and its unrivaled Mycenaean collection, including the “Gold of Mycenae,” discovered by Heinrich Schliemann. After lunch, we will tour the Kerameikos Cemetery. Of particular interest here is the Street of Tombs, begun in 394 BC and evidencing the various styles of funerary monuments used in the 4th century. Lastly, we will complete our city tour the Temple of Zeus, Arch of Hadrian and the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 26th | Athens - Nafplio

We begin our tour of the Peloponnese, stopping first at Corinth, an important Greek and Roman mercantile center. This nearly impregnable acropolis is strategically situated at the crossroads that linked the ancient sea and land routes. The afternoon will be spent at Epidaurus, one of ancient Greece’s most renowned medical centers.

Its theater, which seats 14,000 spectators, is considered the best preserved in the Greek world. Our next two nights are in the seaside town of Nafplio, selected as the first capital of modern Greece.

Breakfast & lunch included.

View of Acropolis from the Areopagus Hill, Athens, Greece

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September 27th | Nafplio

Today’s visits begin at the Mycenaean citadel of Tiryns, where we will explore its interesting system of fortification walls. We continue to fabled Mycenae, home of Agamemnon, leader of the Greeks against Troy, and his treacherous wife Clytemnestra. It was in the royal tombs near its famous Lion Gate that Schliemann found the treasure trove that we saw in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.

This afternoon we will have leisure time to explore Nafplio’s lovely squares, or perhaps take the time to relax at a seaside café.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 28th | Nafplio - Sparta

We continue to ancient Lerna, the scene for one of the “Labors of Hercules.” Our visit will be to the “House of Tiles,” which dates from about 2200 BC. We then stop at Tegea to see its very interesting museum close to the 4th century temple of Athena Alea and continue to Mystras, a medieval city rising up along the slopes of Mt. Taygetos.

We will begin our visit from the top of the mountain, stopping at the remains of Frankish castles and lavishly decorated Byzantine churches. As we stroll slowly along a lovely windings paths we will discover wonderful views at every turn.

Breakfast & lunch included.

September 29th | Sparta - Olympia

Finally freed from their Spartan masters, the ancient Messenians constructed a magnificent city in the 4th century BC, which has now been impressively restored by archaeologists with a well-preserved theater, grand city fountain, market area, Sanctuary of Asclepius and stadium/gymnasium. After a leisurely tour, we continue to Olympia.

All meals included.

September 30th | Olympia - Delphi

Today’s touring is devoted to the Panhellenic sanctuary of Olympia, where every four years from 776 BC to 393 CE Greeks from the world over came to participate in the Olympic Games. We will visit the entire site, including the workshop of Pheidias, in which he created the Zeus, numbered as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. We conclude with a visit to the museum. Among its wonderful treasures

This tour has a physical rating of... *** is the famous Hermes by Praxiteles and the magnificent sculptures from the Temple of Zeus. Late in the day we will cross the Gulf of Corinth and continue to Delphi.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 1st | Delphi

This wonderful day will be spent exploring Delphi, the “center” of the Greek world. The ancient sanctuary is divided into three sections: Marmaria, at the lowest level, site of an iconic marble round building (Tholos), the oracular sanctuary of Apollo proper on the slopes of Mt. Parnassos and the stadium on the heights above. After visiting each in turn, we study the rich collection of art from the site in the museum, including the renowned bronze Charioteer of Delphi and a life-size silver image of a bull.

All meals included.

October 2nd | Delphi - Kalambaka

A lovely mountain drive brings us to Kalambaka, from which we will visit Meteora. Its spectacular monasteries are perched precariously atop huge columns of conglomerate rock. Although hermits have occupied the caves of Meteora since the 11th century, it wasn’t until Serbs invaded in the 14th century that the first monastery was built,

by St. Athanasius. Of the twenty-four known monasteries, only four are in use today and alternate their access to tourists.

All meals included.

October 3rd | Kalambaka - Thessaloniki

We drive north, through the Vale of Tempe, a renowned ancient beauty spot, stopping en route at the foot of Mount Olympus to visit the ancient city of Dion and its museum. Here, Philip II celebrated his triumph after the capture of Olynthos, and Alexander made a sacrifice at the great temple before invading Persia. We then continue to Thessaloniki, Macedonia’s most important port in ancient times.

Strategically located on the Via Egnatia, Thessaloniki was one of four capital cities of the late Roman Empire, and site of Galerius’ planned tomb building, the Rotunda. The re-built 20th century city now has a modern European layout.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 4th | Thessaloniki

This morning we proceed to the ancient city of Philippi, a mainland colony of Thassos occupied by Philip II in 356 BC. Here we shall walk on the ancient Via Egnatia, one of the great highways of the Roman Empire. It was here at Philippi that the apostle Paul founded Europe’s first Christian group and spent a tumultuous night in the city’s prison. Afterwards, we will tour the quaint Old Town of Kavala, with its Ottoman houses, ramparts and aqueducts built in the 16th century under Suleiman the Magnificent. After visiting the museum, we return to Thessaloniki with a stop at the great Lion of Amphipolis, a 4th century tomb sculpture.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 5th | Thessaloniki

Today is devoted to Alexander the Great and his father, Philip. We begin by visiting the museum and site of Pella, where large pebble mosaics decorated houses. We will see floor mosaics that once embellished a spacious Hellenistic house a short distance from the royal residence of Philip of Macedon. It was here in the still inaccessible palace, where Alexander was born, that the conquest of Asia was conceived. We then continue to Vergina to visit the royal tombs of the Macedonians and their magnificent treasures displayed at the museum.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 6th | Thessaloniki

Our last morning of touring begins with a leisurely visit to the city’s Archaeological Museum, which numbers among its many treasures an array of luxury vessels in precious metals, including the unparalleled Dherveni Krater. After visiting the Church of Saint Demetrius, a landmark in Byzantine art, the breath-taking Rotunda of Galerius, once a church of Ayios Georgios, and a stroll to the magnificent Roman forum area, the remainder of the day will be at leisure. This evening we will gather for our farewell dinner.

Breakfast & dinner included.

October 7th | Depart Thessaloniki

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information

Thessaloniki

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: Kalamaka

3 nights in Athens: 4*

2 nights in Delphi: 4*

2 nights in Nafplio: 4*

1 night in Kalambaka: 4*

1 night in Sparta: 4*

4 nights in Thessaloniki: 4*

Delphi Athens

1 night in Olympia: 4* Olympia

Nafplio Mystras Sparta

A/C Coach

Greece

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/gre

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COLORS & CONTRASTS OF THE CAUCASUS Armenia & Georgia 15 Days | September 30th - 14th October $4,950 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $950

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The Hellenic temple of Garni, Armenia

Old quarter in Tbilisi, Georgia

YEREVAN - DILIJAN - TBILISI - BORJOMI - KUTAISI - BATUMI Suspended between the Black and Caspian Seas, where Europe meets Asia, are the spectacular mountain and steppe landscapes of the South Causcasus, home to Georgia and land-locked Armenia. From the towering snow-capped peak of Mount Ararat in Armenia to Georgia’s lush valley lowlands carpeted with ancient vineyards, their scenery alone presents drama and contrasts enough to justify a first visit to this ancient, but largely still-to-be discovered realm of the Silk Road.

For the traveler with a keen interest in antiquity and archaeology, there are even more compelling reasons to be tempted by the cultural and historical treasures offered by both countries — especially their exquisitely beautiful monasteries, cathedrals and churches. Armenia formerly adopted Christianity as the state religion in 301 (earlier than even Rome) and preserves countless monuments and masterpieces of its ancient religions past. Our tour also visits a number of the region’s most notable archaeological locations, and museums, as well as several religious UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Appealing interludes of a different kind will be offered on this tour as we visit vineyards in Georgia, one of the world’s oldest wine-making regions, and we will have the opportunity to sample their produce.

Tour Highlights Admire Armenia’s delicate Graeco-Roman Temple of Garni, a unique masterpiece that is nearly 2,000 years old Enjoy the pleasure and friendly mood of Tbilisi - Georgia’s ‘city of light’ and capital, with a lively café culture Marvel at the extensive ancient rock-carved settlement of Uplistsikhe, uncovered by archaeologists and once a town of cave-houses, churches and pagan sacrifices Venture down the quaint cobbled streets of Kutaisi and explore the medieval complex of Gelati Spend an afternoon free in the relaxing resort town of Batumi, located beside the pebbled beaches of the Black Sea

Expert Scholar Dr. Ian Colvin is a historian and researcher at the University of Cambridge, working on the South Caucasus, Byzantium and Sasanian Iran. Alongside work for the School Classics Project, Ian is the Director of the Anglo-Georgian Archaeological Expedition, to the important site of Nokalakevi in Samegrelo.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/gaa

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY September 30th | Yerevan

Upon arrival in Yerevan, we transfer to our hotel in the midst of the busting city and have time to relax after our flight. This evening we have a welcome dinner.

Dinner included.

October 1st | Yerevan

This morning we take a short drive west to Echmiadzin, otherwise known as the country’s spiritual capital. Here we find the ruins of Zvarnots Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed during the Byzantine era. On site is a romantic assortment of columns and elaborate carvings, as well as remnants of structures dating back to the 7th century BC. Our next stop is Echmiadzin Cathedral, thought to have been built in AD 300 by Armenia’s patron saint, Gregory the Illuminator. The well-preserved interiors have endured a colorful, and sometimes turbulent past. Following lunch, we return to Yerevan and visit the Matenadaran, a magnificent building housing thousands of priceless books and manuscripts.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 2nd | Yerevan

Our first destination this morning is Geghard, a fairytale monastery rising out of the Azat River Gorge. It is home to a fascinating reliquary, within which is the spear allegedly used to wound Christ within his crucifixion. Next, we proceed down the river to the Temple of Garni. Constructed in the 1st century AD, it is believed that the temple was later converted to a summer house, only to be destroyed by an earthquake some centuries later. This afternoon we explore Yerevan’s History Museum, a national treasure boasting a vast collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 3rd | Yerevan

We begin at Shengavit, an enigmatic archaeological site near Lake Yerevan. We continue on to the hilltop ruins of Erebuni Fortress, home to a long line of Urartian kings, and an important stronghold against the northern territories. Returning to Yerevan, we have free time to explore the city, or join the optional excursion to the very Narikala fortress, Tbilisi

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moving Genocide Museum, which has been open since 1995.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 4th | Yerevan - Dilijan

We make our way to Khor Virap this morning, a 7th century monastery stunningly located on the open plains near Mount Ararat.

Khor Virap, began life as a prison and is now used for religious ceremonies. Our next stop is Areni Cave, an early Bronze Age site beside the Arpa River, at which the oldest shoe, earliest winery, and even the oldest brain tissue have so far been discovered. After lunch, our journey takes us to Noravank. This 13th century monastery contains the ornately-carved tomb of Prince Tarsayich Orbelian.

Later today we arrive in Dilijan, an alpine spa town known to the locals as ‘Little Switzerland’.

All meals included.

October 5th | Dilijan - Tbilisi

After breakfast we set out to discover the sights of Dilijan, taking in its gorgeous old town streets with their workshops and museum.

We then head for Haghartsin, a popular complex of 10th - 13th century churches. This afternoon we visit the monasteries of Sanahin and Hagpat, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, both cherished as important centers for religious learning. Travelling across the border, we end our day in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia.

All meals included.

October 6th | Tbilisi

Our seventh day is devoted to the sights of Tbilisi, beginning at the heights of Metekhi Church, which looms over the city from the cliffs.

We continue to Sioni Cathedral, a Georgian Orthodox building dating back as far as the 5th century, with exceptionally rich medieval frescoes and interiors. The Great Synagogue welcomes us next, a 19th century building designed by Georgian Jewish migrants. We round off the morning at Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest extant church in the city, beloved for its weathered interiors and antique naves.

We pause for lunch at a local restaurant before entering the Georgian National Museum, home to many archaeological delights.

Breakfast & lunch included.

This tour has a physical rating of... **

October 7th | Tbilisi

We drive north to Ikalto Monastery, a complex of monastic buildings founded in the late 6th century, including churches, living quarters and the 12th century academy. We take our lunch at a winery east of Tbilisi, for a chance to sample local vintages from one of the oldest wine-making regions in the world.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 8th | Tbilisi

We start our day with a visit to the Open Air Museum of Ethnology, which will provide us with an introduction to the country’s ethnic diversity. After, we make our way to the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the country’s foremost galleries. Here we will admire works dating from the Bronze Age to the present day. This is a spectacular encounter with the skills of the Georgian masters, as well as the finds from nearby ancient burial grounds. Following lunch, we have the afternoon to spend at leisure.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 9th | Tbilisi - Borjomi

This morning we discover the regal Iberian remains at ArmaztsikheBagineti, as well as an array of important religious buildings, including the hilltop Jvari Monastery. We also take in the impressive Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a site famed as the burial place of Christ’s mantle. Next, we journey to the incredible rock-carved settlement of Uplishtsikhe, a unique, expansive town of abandoned cave-houses.

Rising to prominence as a home of Kartlian kings after the Arab conquest, much of Uplishtsikhe was destroyed by Mongol invaders.

All meals included.

October 10th | Borjomi

Today we visit Vardzia, an unusual cave monastery on the banks of the Kura River, within which we find a set of wall paintings dating back to the Christian Orient. In use during the Bronze Age, the caves are thought to have been abandoned during the 16th century.

Next, we journey to Rabati Castle, a fortress located in Akhaltsikhe.

All meals included.

October 11th | Borjomi - Kutaisi

This morning we drive to Kutaisi, a city located in west Georgia and is home to the Bagrati Cathedral. Upon our arrival, we visit the medieval monastic complex of Gelati, a relic of Georgia’s Golden Age, and one of the first monasterys to be built in the country. In its heydey, Gelati was a celebrated center of learning and today, dazzling frescoes grab our full attention, as does the tomb of King David himself. Later, we explore Prometheus Cave. Discovered in 1984, this neon-lit cave boast a wonderful array of stalactites, stalagmites, petrified waterfalls, underground rivers and lakes.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 12th | Kutaisi - Batumi

We begin with a drive east to Nokalakevi, where we spend the morning exploring this active archaeological site and its fortifications. Excavations here have so far revealed extensive walls and towers, burial grounds, jewelry and weapons, indicating evidence of human habitation as long ago as the 8th century. Next, we travel along the Black Sea coast to the resort town of Batumi, one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations, and our base for the last section of our trip.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 13th | Batumi

The final full day of our holidays gets going at a leisurely pace, as we take in the Roman fort of Gonio-Apsaros, an archaeological site on the Chorokhi River, just north of the Turkish border. The earliest mention of Gonio comes from the writings of Pliny the Elder, and excavations continue to unearth traces if its prosperous past. We return to Batumi and have the afternoon to explore as we wish.

Tonight, we come back together as a group for our last dinner; the perfect chance to toast the success of our adventures, and relive our favorite moments.

All meals included.

October 14th | Depart Batumi

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 4 nights in Yerevan: 4*

1 night in Kutaisi: 4*

1 night in Dilijan: 4*

2 nights in Batumi: 4*

Kutaisi Borjomi Batumi

Tbilisi

4 nights in Tbilisi: 4* Dilijan

2 nights in Borjomi: 5* Yerevan

A/C coach, 4x4

Armenia & Georgia

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/gaa

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ANCIENT AEGEAN KINGDOMS Cyprus, Crete & Santorini 15 Days | October 7th - 21st $6,995 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,400

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Oia Village, Santorini,

Knossos Palace in Crete

LARNACA - PAPHOS - HERAKLION - FIRA The sparkling Mediterranean waters of the Aegean, dividing mainland Greece from Turkey, were the genesis for the evolution of ancient maritime civilizations whose questing seafarers first linked ancient Greek and Roman cultures with the eastern civilizations of Anatolia and Levantine centers in Egypt and Mesopotamia.

Spending 6, 5 and 3 nights in Cyprus, Crete and Santorini respectively, our three-island odyssey unravels the complex story of these historic Aegean Kingdoms – a narrative telling of 9,000 years of history, from Neolithic villages to the Bronze Age cultures of the Minoans, Mycenaeans and Cypriotes, then on to Classical, Greco-Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic eras.

It’s a journey embracing a sequence of exceptional archaeological sites and museums, eloquently illuminating the enigmas and myths of these long-lost worlds. Of special note will be a trio of ancient Cypriote city-kingdoms (Kition, Amathous and Kourion), the Painted Churches in the Troödos Mountains Region (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) – and Knossos, setting of Crete’s greatest archaeological excavations and the ruins of a huge Minoan palace, possible inspiration for the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur. We end on the picturesque Cyclades island of Santorini, with time to relax between visits to classical Thera and Akrotiri, the ‘Minoan Pompeii’ still emerging from its ashes.

Tour Highlights Discover Gortyn and its famous 5th century stone blocks, inscribed with the laws of Classical Greece Separate history from mythology as we explore the fascinating Minoan palace complexes of Knossos and Malia Wander amid Cyprus’s Tombs of Kings at Paphos, a grand necropolis carved from the solid rock Explore Heraklion Archaeological Museum, housing the world’s greatest exhibition of Minoan artifacts - and also Nicosia’s Cyprus Museum Enjoy the Mediterranean’s friendly skies, inviting beaches and delicious local cuisines – all will enhance our quest for the secrets of these ancient civilizations

Expert Scholar Dr. Christina Hatzimichael Whitley is a Tutor in Greek Archaeology at the Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning (LEARN). Christina specializes in Minoan Crete and is also the co-director of the Praisos survey and excavation Project (Crete). She was born in Greece but currently lives with her family in Cardiff, and is also fluent in English.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/ccs

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY October 7th | Larnaca

We arrive in Larnaca and transfer to our first hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax after our flight, before enjoying dinner as a group.

Dinner included.

October 8th | Larnaca

After an opening lecture, our touring begins with the site of Kition.

Originating in the Mycenaean period, Kition became a place of commercial importance for its rich metal trade. In about 900 BC, the Phoenicians established a colony here, and it later became a way station for pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Touring includes the mosque of Umm Haram, tomb of the maternal aunt of the Prophet Muhammad, one of the holiest shrines of Islam, the superb Byzantine mosaics in Kiti Church, St. Lazarus Church and Pierides Museum.

All meals included.

October 9th | Larnaca

All day is spent in the Cypriot capital of Nicosia. A settlement since the Bronze Age, the city has been continuously inhabited for almost 5,000 years. Here, we visit the Cyprus Archaeological Museum, which houses the world’s most extensive collections of Cypriot archaeology.

This afternoon we have free time to walk around the old town, including the well-preserved Venetian walls, built in an attempt to defend the city from Ottoman invasion.

All meals included.

October 10th | Larnaca - Paphos

We begin our tour at the site of Khirokitia, an exceptionally preserved Neolithic walled village with over 60 stone roundhouses. Afterwards, we visit Amathous’s celebrated classical city. During its long history, it served as a harbor to the Phoenicians, while under the Romans it was the capital of one of the four districts of the island. This afternoon, we drive to Kourion, one of the most important ancient sites in Cyprus.

The sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, theater and baths of the acropolis command a spectacular panoramic sea view from its heights. We continue on to Petra tou Romiou, legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, before a visit to Kouklia with its famous Sanctuary of Aphrodite.

All meals included.

Mosque of Umm Haram, Cyprus

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October 11th | Paphos

We drive into the beautiful Troodos Mountains to visit a wonderful series of frescoed Byzantine churches including Agios Ioannis Lampadistis, which houses a fine Pantokrator in the dome, and Panagia tou Moutoulla, one of the oldest of the Troodos churches (AD 1279). Here we will see rare frescoes of St. George and St. Christopher, both dressed in Byzantine armor.

All meals included.

October 12th | Paphos

Our visit today is to the World Heritage Site of Paphos. We explore the elaborate rock-cut, so-called ‘Tombs of the Kings’ which dates from the 3rd century BC. We spend lunch within Paphos Harbor before continuing to the Archaeological Park to see the well-preserved mosaics of mythological subjects at Villa of Theseus and the nearby Roman remains of the House of Dionysos.

All meals included.

October 13th | Paphos - Heraklion

After a morning at leisure, we depart for our flight to Crete.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 14th | Heraklion

Our full morning will be spent at the Heraklion Museum, which houses the world’s greatest collection of Minoan artifacts from the island’s palaces, towns and villas. The rest of the day will be at leisure to explore Heraklion on our own.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 15th | Heraklion

Touring begins with a trip to the world-renowned Palace of Knossos, a majestic complex erected in Greece’s Bronze Age era, and the largest Bronze Age site in the country. The intricate, multi-storeyed layout of the palace has led to its connection with numerous myths and legends, including that of the Minotaur and the labyrinth. We take in the royal quarters, with their decorated Throne Room, as well as noting the axe stands within the House of the High Priest.

We continue on to the Minoan manor house and outbuildings of

This tour has a physical rating of... ** Vathypetro, the surviving remnants of a settlement that stretched across three hills. Here we observe an elaborate shrine as well as a wonderfully preserved wine press – one of the oldest in the world.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 16th | Heraklion

We enjoy a morning at the important Greco-Roman site of Gortyn in the verdant Messara Valley, a gem of the archaeological world since its discovery in 1884. Thought to have once been populated by over 300,000 people, the site is best-known for its collection of 5th century stone blocks, inscribed with the law codes of classical Greece – the oldest and most complete example of coded ancient Greek laws ever found. We resume our adventures with the Minoans at the magnificent Palace of Phaistos. Famous finds here include thousands of documents, some inscribed with the earliest known occurrence of the still undeciphered writing of the Minoans – a script also known as ‘Linear A’. We leave the columns and courtyards of Phaistos to visit Ayia Triada, a grand but ruinous Bronze Age villa that has yielded more examples of Linear A tablets than any other site of its kind.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 17th | Heraklion

Our day starts with a trip to the Palace of Malia, a huge Minoan complex just north of the Lasithi Mountains, significant not only for its size, but also its strategic port, skylights and grand facades. We then proceed to the well-preserved late Minoan town of Gournia, one of the few sites in the region to have been fully excavated. The remains of Gournia cluster around cobbled streets on the side of a hill and are crowned by the now-ruined palace. Traces of some 50 houses are in evidence here, as well as a court and cemetery. This afternoon we are treated to the picturesque ruins of Chamaizi, best known for the unique oval-shaped Middle Minoan building which is located on the summit of the hill here – the only one of its type discovered to date. The evening is free to spend at leisure, perhaps take a walk around the harbor and check out one of the local restaurants.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

October 18th | Heraklion - Fira

A ferry brings us to Santorini, the southernmost island of the Cyclades. Our two nights here offer time to explore the maze of picturesque narrow streets.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 19th | Fira

After breakfast, we journey up winding roads to the ancient city of Thera, located on a ridge of Messavouno Mountain, some 360 meters above sea level. The site has been under excavation since 1904, and findings from the city have contributed immensely to our understanding of Minoan culture and history. We imagine the people whose lives were centered around Thera’s 800-meter long main street; who attended performances in the city’s enormous theater; and who worshipped Hermes and Heracles within the walls of the sacred grotto. We spend the afternoon in the new Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the old Archaeological Museum of Thera. Both house a selection of dazzling wall paintings from the Minoan buildings at Akrotiri, as well as a large number of artifacts found in various island excavations. Don’t miss jugs depicting elegant birds, dating from the Middle Cycladic period of 1800 to 2000 BC, and the statue of the golden goat, discovered in Akrotiri in 1999.

Breakfast & lunch included.

October 20th | Fira

This morning is consumed by a visit to Akrotiri. Destroyed by a catastrophic volcanic eruption in around 1500 BC and buried in ash, the city is reminiscent of Pompeii, and has retained some impressively well-preserved houses. The drainage systems, complex buildings, and magnificent wall paintings still in place indicate a once prosperous society, with many successful trade links. We admire the delightful ‘Fresco of the Monkeys’ and the ‘House of the Ladies’, with its striking central light well. This evening we gather for a special farewell dinner as a group.

All meals included.

October 21st | Depart Fira

We transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

Santorini Cyprus

Fira Santorini

3 nights in Larnaca: 4* Paphos

3 nights in Paphos: 4*

Larnaca

5 nights in Herakloin: 4* 3 nights in Fira: 4* Heraklion

A/C coach, ferry Flight: Paphos - Heraklion via Athens

Crete

Gortyn

Gournia

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/ccs

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BURMESE EMPIRES & KHMER KINGDOMS Myanmar & Cambodia 16 Days | November 9th - 24th $7,680 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,450

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Horse carriage at Daw Gyan Pagoda complex, Ava, Myanmar

Ta Prohm Khmer ancient Buddhist temple, Cambodia

YANGON - MANDALAY - BAGAN - INLE LAKE - PHNOM PENH - SIEM REAP Myanmar and Cambodia, the former kingdoms of Mon and Khmer, embody two of South East Asia’s most ancient and intriguing cultures. Throughout their long histories, Buddhism has been a major creative source of artistic and intellectual inspiration - and still finds powerful expression today in a wealth of exotic architecture, iconography and rituals. Our interest-filled tour focuses on the cultures that laid the early building blocks of Burmese civilization and the core role of Buddhism here in historic lands newly engaging with the outside world.

Former capital Yangon (Rangoon of old) offers a lively introduction to Myanmar’s many colors and contrasts to come in a dazzling spectrum of saffron-robed monks, resplendent pagodas, golden temples and ancient royal sites as we visit Bagan, capital of the first Burmese kingdom, and Mandalay, the last royal capital - and explore beautiful Inle Lake with its traditional stilt-houses and temples rising from the water.

Equally striking contrasts are the keynote in Cambodia en route to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap through scenes of active Buddhist monasteries, vibrant markets and spectacular palaces - culminating in the Khmer temple complex at Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. As we travel there’s every opportunity to enjoy traditional music and dance, and to discover local cuisines and unique handicrafts.

Tour Highlights Uncover the historical, ethnographic and religious influences that have shaped the history of these ancient lands Marvel at the ethereal beauty of Yangon’s glorious Shwedagon Pagoda, the most important religious building in Myanmar Take a horse and cart across verdant rice fields at the deserted royal city of Ava to visit a traditional wooden monastery Spend an afternoon on Inle Lake observing the famous Intha ‘leg rowers’ and floating gardens bursting with vegetables and flowers Enjoy two wonderful days of in-depth exploration amid the huge Angkor temple and sanctuary complex

Expert Scholar Miranda Bruce-Mitford specializes in social anthropology, Burmese language and literature, Buddhist Art and Architecture of South and Southeast Asia, and Oriental religious studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies, London University. Miranda has lectured and given gallery talks at the British Museum, Sothebys and the Victoria & Albert Museum.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/khm

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY November 9th | Yangon

We arrive in Yangon and transfer to our first hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax after our flight, before enjoying our first group dinner.

Dinner included.

November 10th | Yangon

We begin our touring of Yangon, viewing the colonial buildings, and a stop at the golden chedi at Sule Pagoda. We also experience the spiritual atmosphere surrounding the glorious Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar’s most important religious building. After lunch, choose to have free time or to join an optional walking tour of the city streets.

All meals included.

November 11th | Yangon - Mandalay

A morning flight brings us to Mandalay. We begin with a comprehensive tour of the city, which includes the Mahamuni Pagoda and the Shwe-im-bin, a wooden monastery known for its lovely carving. This afternoon, we visit Kuthodaw Pagoda, where a large Buddha statue has been carved out of a single block of local marble.

Next, we visit Shwenandaw Monastery, the only Royal Palace building to survive a WWII bombing, and finally Mandalay Hill.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 12th | Mandalay

We drive south towards the former royal capital of Innwa and take a local ferry across the river to Ava, where a horse cart and driver await.

Pass through the ancient city walls to visit the monastery of Maha Aungmye Bonzan and the impressive wooden monastery of Bagaya Kyaung. We spend the afternoon visiting Mandalay Palace and then Shwe Kywe Kyin Monastery in time to witness the evening prayer.

All meals included.

November 13th | Mandalay - Mingun

Today we embark on a cruise on the Aywerwaddy to Bagan. We stop in Mingun to visit the impressive unfinished pagoda, and the largest working bell in the world. This afternoon, we stop in a typical river village before returning to the ship for dinner.

All meals included.

Traditional fishermen at Inle Lake, Myanmar

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November 14th | Mingun - Sagaing - Yandabo

During our cruise downstream, we admire the natural beauty of the river and the life of its banks. After breakfast, those who wish to go to Sagaing can go ashore. In the afternoon, we stop at Yandabo, a village specializing in pottery making, and where the peace treaty of the First-Anglo Burmese war was signed in 1826.

All meals included.

November 15th | Bagan

We enjoy the sunrise near Bagan before disembarking at Ye Kin jetty this morning. Today we visit a diverse selection of the most important pagodas and temples in Bagan. There include the Shewzigon Pagoda, a huge gilded temple built by King Anawrata in the early 11th century, and Gubyaukhyi, a 13th century temple with exquisite murals of the “Jataka Tales’. This afternoon, we visit four very different 11th century Mon-style temples: Nanpaya, Manuha, Nagayon and Abeyadana, with its beautifully restored Mahayana wall paintings.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 16th | Bagan

After an early morning carriage ride to one of the pagodas where we witness the sunrise. We then depart for Myinkaba, a village that predates the founding of Bagan. Here we visit the first of two transitional temples, the Gubyaukgyi Myinkaba Temple, built in traditional Indian style, and then the Ananda Temple, famous for its 3,000 images. We stop to see the lacquer-ware being made and engraved by four different processes. Lastly, we visit the Archaeological Museum.

All meals included.

November 17th | Bagan - Inle Lake

This morning we fly to Heho, from which we will journey to our next hotel on the shores of Inle Lake. Our first afternoon will be spent boating on the lake, where we will see the renowned Intha people, who row their boats standing with one leg wrapped around an oar, and floating gardens bursting with an abundance of vegetables and flowers. We will stop to visit the wooden Phe Kyaung Monastery, famous for its “jumping cats,” and Phaung Daw U Pagoda.

Breakfast & lunch included.

This tour has a physical rating of... **

November 18th | Inle Lake

November 22nd | Siem Reap

Our touring continues by boat to Nyaung Shwe, where we proceed by bus through pine forests to the former hill station and capital of Southern Shan State, Taunggyi. En route we will visit Shweyanpyay Monastery and Sulamani Pagoda before continuing (providing the road is passable) to the ancient ruins of Kak Ku Pagoda, completely surrounded by dozens of small pagodas. Later, we visit the Aythaya Estate Wine Garden. When we arrive, we have the chance to enjoy a wine-tasting with food.

Breakfast & lunch included.

We have ample time to allow us an in-depth exploration of the extraordinary Angkor Complex. We spend our first day touring the older temples of the Roluos Group. We will visit the city of Angkor Thom, with the many-towered Bayon Temple at its center; the adjacent city square and elephant terrace; the cremation platform; and the royal palace compound. We will also visit Prasat Kravan, with unique brick sculptures, and Eastern Mebon, guarded by elephants.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 19th | Inle Lake - Phnom Penh

We start our day at Banteay Srei temple, regarded as the jewel in the crown of classical Khmer art. In the afternoon, we visit the most famous of all temples on the plain of Angor — Angkor Wat. The temple complex covers 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Its distinctive five towers are emblazoned on the Cambodian flag and the 12th century masterpiece is considered by art historians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. Angkor Wat’s five towers symbolize Meru’s five peaks — the enclosed wall represents the mountains at the edge of the world, and the surrounding moat — the ocean beyond.

All meals included.

We fly from Heho to Yangon. Upon arrival, we leave the airport for a rejuvenating lunch. Later, we transfer back to Yangon International Airport for our evening flight to Phnom Penh.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 20th | Phnom Penh

This morning we take an intriguing tour of Phnom Penh’s must-see sites, beginning with a visit to The Royal Palace. This structure was constructed on the site of the Banteay Kev, a citadel built in 1813.

We venture inside the Palace’s Silver Pagoda and its surrounding compound. We continue to visit the Russian Market, also known as Psah Tuol Tom Pong. The market is very popular with the locals and has stalls selling drinks and cooked food as well as everyday household goods. The remainder of the day will be at leisure.

Breakfast included.

November 21st | Phnom Penh - Siem Reap

A full morning will be spent at the National Museum, of Khmer Art and Archaeology, otherwise known as ‘Musee des Beaux-Arts’ or ‘Musee Albert Sarraut’. This museum is considered to be one of the finest museums of classical Cambodian art. After lunch we will fly to Siem Reap and transfer to our well- located hotel for the next four nights. Nestled between rice paddies and stretched along the Siem Reap River, the small provincial town of Siem Reap serves as the gateway to the ancient temple ruins of the Khmer Empire.

Breakfast included.

November 23rd | Siem Reap

November 24th | Depart Siem Reap

This morning we visit Ta Prohm, a beautiful temple that appears to have been claimed by nature thanks to the strangler figs and kapok trees that have entwined themselves around the ruins. Next, we head out to explore the ruins of Preah Khan, before visiting the Angkor National Museum this afternoon. We end our day by transferring to the airport for our evening flights home or onward travel.

Mandalay

Tour Information

Bagan Inle Lake

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 2 nights in Yangon: 5*

2 nights in Bagan: 4*

2 nights in Mandalay: 4*

2 nights in Inle Lake: 4*

2 nights on board Aywerwaddy Cruiser: 4*

2 nights in Phnom Penh: 4*

Yangon

3 nights in Siem Reap: 4*

A/C coach, Aywerwaddy cruiser Flights: Yangon - Mandalay, Heho - Bagan, Heho - Yangon - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap

Myanmar & Cambodia

Siem Reap

Phnom Penh

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/khm

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SANCTUARIES & SPICES South India 20 Days | November 9th - 28th $8,250 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,880

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Stone chariot in Vittala Temple, India

Traditional fishing nets in Fort Kochi

MUMBAI - AURANGABAD - CHENNAI - TANJORE - MADURAI - PERIYA - KOCHI - MYSORE CHIKMAGALUR - HAMPI - BADAMI - BENGALURU Spanning 2,000 miles from top to bottom, Asia’s second-largest nation does nothing by halves, whether it be the colorful contrasts of its landscapes and lifestyles or the countless treasures of its historical, cultural and architectural heritage. To travel through the south of the country is to find yourself caught in the embrace of India at its most dazzlingly exotic: a tropical India of fertile green coastlands, the craggy Deccan plateau and its rolling hills, serene coconut groves and spice plantations, lush forests and cool backwaters - and game reserves that are a haven for elephant and tiger.

Our journey explores an India enriched by the unique cultural fusion of the different dynasties, faiths and civilisations that have made their home here over two millennia. Today’s inhabitants are largely descended from indigenous Dravidians driven south by Aryan invaders of old. To them especially, beguiling South India now owes much of its flamboyant flavor – and a spectacular array of centuries-old Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and Jain temple complexes, rock sculptures, monuments and haunting ruins.

To all these our tour will add opportunities to savor South India’s speciality regional cuisines, enjoy classical dance performances and discover something of the exuberant mood of modern India in the cities of Mumbai, Chennai and Mysore.

Tour Highlights Explore the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site at Ellora, where over 30 ancient cave temples are carved out of solid rock Spend a relaxing afternoon at peaceful Periyar National Park – a superb spot for viewing elephants up close Go behind the scenes at a private Kathakali dance performance, one of the major forms of Indian classical dance Enjoy a day admiring the world-famous rock-cut shrines and shore temples of Mamallapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Stand before the world’s largest monolithic statue at the ancient Jain pilgrimage site of Sravanabelagola

Expert Scholar Dr. Mehreen Chida-Razvi completed her PhD in the History of Art & Archaeology at SOAS, University of London.

Her primary research examines the history of architecture and the built environment, and she has carried out extensive fieldwork in Pakistan & India. Mehreen also specializes in the history of Islamic art, architecture and material culture.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/ins

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY November 9th | Mumbai

We arrive in Mumbai and transfer directly to our hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax, before enjoying our first dinner as a group.

Dinner included.

November 10th | Mumbai - Aurangabad

We spend our morning visiting the Gateway of India, Prince of Whales Museum and Dhobi Ghat. This afternoon we transfer to the airport for our flight to Aurangabad, a city founded in 1610 by the popular prime minister Malik Ambar. We check in to our hotel and prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 11th | Aurangabad

Today we drive to Ellora, a famed UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we find some 34 cave temples carved out of solid rock, dating from between the 5th and 13th centuries. Created by monks chiselling out over 3 million cubic feet of stone, and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Kailasa is the world’s largest single monolithic rock excavation. We have the afternoon at leisure.

Breakfast included.

November 14th | Chennai

We drive south to Mahabalipuram, the second capital of the Pallava Kings. We spend the day visiting Pancha Rathas, a World Heritage site of rock-cut shrines and shore temples. Afterwards, we return back to our hotel in Chennai.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 15th | Chennai - Tanjore

A morning flight takes us down to Tiruchirappalli. Once the seat of power in southern India, Tiruchirappalli’s recorded history goes back as far as the 3rd century BC when it was ruled by the culture-rich Chola dynasty. After lunch, we proceed to tour Tiruchirapalli Rock Fort and Srirangam temple. Even after many invasions by Mughal Kings, this temple still stands without losing its beauty and fame. We will then continue our drive to Tanjore and check into our hotel.

All meals included.

November 16th | Tanjore - Madurai

November 12th | Aurangabad - Chennai

Today we visit the famous Brihadeeswarar Temple. Completed in 1010 AD, it is an outstanding example of the Chola architecture. It is one of the largest temples in the country and is distinguished by its truly immense stone-carved tower. We will also visit the Raja Museum & Art Gallery, where we see its excellent collection of Chola bronzes. After lunch, we drive to Madurai where we visit the Meenakshi Temple to witness the nightly prayer ceremony.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 13th | Chennai

Our day starts with a visit toThirumalai Nayak Palace, a visual feast of column-flanked courtyards, cloistered archways and tranquil gardens.

We then have the opportunity to revisit Meenakshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi. We have a free afternoon and then enjoy a Bharat Natyam dance performance this evening.

Breakfast included.

This morning we visit the Ajanta Caves. There are thirty caves, including some unfinished ones. Of the Ajanta caves, five are prayer halls and the rest are monasteries. The paintings within the cave delineate the life and teachings of Buddha, his early life as a prince surrounded by women, and the splendour of court life. In the late afternoon we fly to Mumbai and then on to Chennai.

Breakfast & lunch included.

We enjoy a morning at leisure and continue touring in the afternoon with a visit to the Government Museum, a site rich in archaeological material including the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside of Europe. We also visit Fort St George and St Mary’s Church, the oldest British building in India.

Breakfast & lunch included.

Ancient cave with animal column in Mamallapuram, India

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November 17th | Madurai

November 18th | Madurai - Periyar

We drive to Periyar where we experience a boat ride on the Periyar Lake. The cool surroundings and panorama of tropical jungles spread

This tour has a physical rating of... ** across an area of 777 Sq. This wildlife sanctuary lies at an elevation of 914 to 1828 meters above sea level in the hills of Western Ghats.

Breakfast & dinner included.

November 19th | Periyar - Kochi

After breakfast we continue our journey with a visit to the spice gardens around Periyar Lake – a chance to learn more about the area’s indigenous plants. We embark on a house boat for a cruise with lunch. Here we will be awed at the vast expanse of the paddy fields that surround these beautiful backwaters. After we disembark at Alleppey we drive to Kochi and check in to our hotel.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 20th | Kochi

We tour Kochi this morning, getting to know the country’s first ever European settlement. As part of our tour we visit Mattancherry Palace and St Francis Church. We are on our own for an afternoon at leisure, before regrouping to watch a Kathakali dance performance.

Kathakali is the second major dance form originated in Kerala and is exclusively danced by men.

Breakfast included.

November 21st | Kochi - Mysore

We fly to Bengaluru and drive to Mysore, stopping at Somnathpur to visit a 13th century Hoysala temple. The exterior walls of the temple are frescoed with iconography of Hinduism and display extensive friezes of Hindu texts such as the Ramayana, the Mahabharata and the Bhagavata Purana. We continue to Mysore, the cultural capital of the state of Karnataka.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 22nd | Mysore

We start the day by visiting the Srirangapatnam Fort, former summer palace of Tipu Sultan. After lunch we continue to the Maharajah’s Palace, one of the largest and most splendid royal residences in India.

We also visit Chamundi Hills, which houses a temple to Durga.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 23rd | Mysore - Chikmagalur

This morning we head towards Shravanabelagola, one of the most important Jain pilgramge centes in India. After lunch, we explore Belur, Chennakshava Temple and then continue to Halebid to visit the Hoysaleswara Temple. We end the day at Chikmagalur.

All meals included.

November 24th | Chikmagalur - Hampi

Our journey take us further north to the temple town of Hampi, our base for exploring the extraordinary Vijayanagara ruins. We enjoy a free afternoon after checking in to our hotel.

All meals included.

November 25th | Hampi

We continue to tour the sites of Hampi throughout the day – seeing all that we can of this treasure trove of handsome temples, majestic artwork and stunning Medieval architecture – before returning to our comfortable hotel.

All meals included.

November 26th | Hampi

We proceed with a visit to the richly decorated Aihole Hindu Temples. We also visit the archaeologically significant Temples of Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is also protected under Indian law, and is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. We check in to our hotel and enjoy our final afternoon at leisure. Tonight, we reunite for an unforgettable farewell dinner with the group.

All meals included.

November 27th | Hampi - Bengaluru

We end our tour with a drive to Bengaluru. Here we spend the night at an airport hotel.

Breakfast & lunch included.

November 28th | Depart Bengaluru

Today we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information

Aurangabad

We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available:

Mumbai

1 night in Mumbai: 4*

2 nights in Kochi: 4*

2 nights in Aurangabad: 4*

2 nights in Mysore: 4*

3 nights in Chennai: 5*

1 night in Chikmagalur: 4*

1 night in Tanjore: 4*

3 nights in Hampi: 4*

2 nights in Madurai: 4*

1 night in Bengaluru: 4*

Chennai Hampi Chikmagalur Mysore

Bengaluru Thanjavur

1 night in Periyar: 4* A/C coach, backwater cruise, regional flights: Mumbai -Aurangabad - Mumbai - Chennai - Tanjore, Kochi - Bengaluru, Hubli - Bengaluru

Madurai

Kochi

India

Periyar

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/ins

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MAHARAJAHS & MUGHALS North India 18 Days | December 6th - 23rd $6,745 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,600

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Udaipur City Palace

Taj Mahal, Agra

DELHI - VARANASI - KHAJURAHO - ORCHHA - GWALIOR - AGRA - JAIPUR JODHPUR - UDAIPUR - DELHI How to encompass in one journey the complexities of the turbulent history and spectacular cultural heritage of a sub-continent’s whose exotic traditions, architecture and art all have an immensity of appeal that could justify a lifetime’s exploration?

Impossible, of course – but by its structured focus on the ancient cultures and divisions of northern India’s tumultuous past, our tour will build for you a clear picture of the infinitely diverse strands that have shaped the exotic fabric of this vast country. Carefully planned visits to many world-famous sites, monuments and leading museums bring a comprehensive understanding of the intricate cultural synthesis that has evolved between the country’s primary religious civilizations - Jain, Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim.

Highlights as we travel from Delhi through Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Agra and Rajasthan’s ‘Land of Kings’ include Sanchi’s fabulous stupa, the monastic excavations at Sarnath and the elaborately carved temples at Ranakpur - all illustrating the vigor of Buddhist and Jain offshoots from early Hinduism. Fascinating facets of later Hindu civilization are on display amid Khajuraho’s elaborate temples, the teeming pilgrimage center at Varanasi and, most beautiful of all, the Rajput’s fortified palaces of Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaipur, in striking counterpoint to Agra’s legendary Mughal masterpiece, the Taj Mahal.

Tour Highlights Discover no fewer than 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the majestic Taj Mahal and Jaipur’s Amber Palace Enjoy an early morning boat trip along the sacred ‘ghats’ of the Ganges at Varanasi Explore the great palaces and fortresses of the ancient Rajasthani cities of Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaipur View Khajuraho’s amazing sculptures and some of the world’s finest temple carvings, known for portraying women Stay at the magical Lake Palace Hotel in Udaipur, originally built as the pleasure palace of Maharajah Jagat Singh II

Expert Scholar Dr. Mehreen Chida-Razvi completed her PhD in the History of Art & Archaeology at SOAS, University of London.

Her primary research examines the history of architecture and the built environment, and she has carried out extensive fieldwork in Pakistan & India. Mehreen also specializes in the history of Islamic art, architecture and material culture.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/inn

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY December 6th | Delhi

We arrive in Delhi and transfer to our hotel. We take the rest of the day to relax, before enjoying our first dinner as a group.

Dinner included.

December 7th | Delhi

After a relaxing morning to recover from our flight, we will begin our touring with Delhi’s major Mughal sites including the exquisitely carved minaret of Qutb Minar, built by Aibak in 1199 and Humayun’s Tomb, the first tomb of the great Mughals.

Breakfast included.

December 8th | Delhi

Today’s touring continues at the lovely Jama-i Masjid, decorated with polychrome stonework, and the recently restored water system, as well as the grand Lal Qila, known as the Red Fort, and Birla House, a museum dedicated to Gandi. We will spend the afternoon at the National Museum. Rich with archaeological artifacts and art from the last 5,000 years, the museum also houses Sir Aurel Stein’s collection from his travels along the Silk Road.

Breakfast & lunch included.

December 9th | Delhi - Varanasi

We fly to Varanasi and begin our touring at the remains of the monastic center at Sarnath. It was here, around 528 BC, that Buddha preached his first sermon after he had received enlightenment. We will also explore the site and its small museum, which houses India’s official symbol, the Ashoka pillar, carved with back-to-back lions.

Breakfast included.

December 10th | Varanasi - Khajuraho

Our day begins with a morning boat trip on the Ganges as Hindu pilgrims flock to the ghats to perform their ablutions. Next we fly to Khajuraho, where the temples of this region celebrate the joy of life and love, portraying women in all their sensuality and are considered to be the epitome of Hindu sculpture. We will also spend time at the Southern Temple Group and the Archaeological Museum.

Breakfast & dinner included.

Ellora caves, India

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December 11th | Khajuraho

We continue our touring to the Eastern Temple group, including the architectural masterpiece Parsvanatha Jain temple. Its charming sculptures include a scene of a woman applying eye makeup and another removing a thorn from her foot, giving us the sense of being present at an intimate moment in their lives. After visiting the Western Temple Group, we will have an afternoon at leisure to revisit our favorite sites or relax at the swimming pool.

Breakfast & dinner included.

December 12th | Khajuraho - Orchha

This morning we make our way to Orchha, which was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela king, Rudhra Pratap. This medieval city is frozen in time and space, existing even today as it must have done in the 16th and 17th centuries when it was built. In the afternoon, we visit the Jehangir Mahal, the most grandiose structure in Orchha; the Raja Mahal, another monument of historical importance and the Rai Praveen Mahal.

Breakfast & dinner included.

December 13th | Orchha - Gwalior

After breakfast, we head to Gwalior, visiting Bir Singh Palace in Datia en route. This palace is one of the finest examples of domestic architecture in India. The summit is ornamented by numerous chhatris crowned with ribbed domes, while many of the ceilings are finely carved. We continue to Gwalior, established in the 8th century and named after Saint Gwalipa. Formally the capital of Madhya Bharat it was ruled by Tomar kings, the Mughals and the Marathas.

Breakfast & dinner included.

December 14th | Gwalior - Agra

We proceed with a city tour of Gwalior. The city is dominated by its hill-top fort, one of the most redoubtable in the world. After lunch we board a train to Agra, the quintessence of the grand Mughal era.

Agra is globally renowned as the city of the Taj Mahal, but this royal Mughal city has many monuments that epitomize the high point of Mughal architecture.

Breakfast & lunch included.

This tour has a physical rating of... **

December 15th | Agra

December 19th | Jodhpur

Referred to as one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is the epitome of tourism in India and is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. A symphony in white marble, a tribute to eternal love, it was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. There are tombs of Mumtaz and Shahjahan within the mausoleum. Today’s visits also includes a visit to the Red Fort, the elegant garden mausoleum of Itimad-ud-Daulah as well as other buildings of interest for their Mughal architecture.

Breakfast included.

Today we will explore some of the very colorful villages inhabited by the Bishnoi people. These interesting people are potters and weavers and are followers of a 15th-century sage whose creed focused on protecting every living thing. After lunch, we proceed with a city tour visiting Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada. Mehrangarh Fort, is set on a sandstone hill built by Rao Jodha in 1459. From the top of the fort, one can get a bird’s eye view of the old city to the Jaswant Thada.

Breakfast & lunch included.

December 16th | Agra - Jaipur

A fascinating drive brings us to the exquisite temples of Ranakpur, which lie buried in a shady glen and cover a vast area. The central temple is called Chaumukha (four-faced) and is the most complex and extensive of Jain temples in India. Its 29 halls are supported by 1,444 pillars, none of which are alike. Subsidiary shrines in the shape of side altars throng around in all directions, including a temple dedicated to the Sun God which displays erotic carvings. We continue to the romantic city of Udaipur for a two-night stay.

Breakfast & lunch included.

This morning we journey to Jaipur, the capital of India’s Rajasthan state and home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. En route, we stop to visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar as his capital in the late 16th century to commemorate the birth of his son. After using 10,000 artisans to create this Hindu-Persian masterpiece, Akbar utilized the city as his principal capital for only 15 years and eventually moved to Lahore.

Breakfast & lunch included.

December 17th | Jaipur

A short drive brings us to Amber and the magnificent fort-palace that nestles on the rocky hill rising above Maota Lake. We then return to Jaipur. Our touring begins with the intricately carved marble Old City Palace built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1728, now home to the Textiles and Costumes Museum We will also visit the Jantar Mantar, and the Palace of the Winds, renowned for its delicate lattice screens.

Breakfast & lunch included.

December 18th | Jaipur - Jodhpur

We drive to Jodhpur, a sandy, colorful town lying at the edge of the Thar Desert. Jodhpur is known as the “Blue City” due to the vivid blue-painted houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. The old city circles the fort and is bounded by a wall with several gates, however, the city has expanded greatly over the past several decades. This evening we enjoy a walking tour of the bustling market of Old Jodhpur.

Breakfast included.

December 20th | Jodhpur - Udaipur

December 21th | Udaipur

We complete our touring this morning with an excursion to Nagda to visit the exquisitely carved 10th-century Hindu temples and Eklingji, a complex of 108 living temples dedicated to Shiva, patron deity of the Udaipur royal house. We then return to Udaipur to visit the palace of the Maharana Udai Singh, Jagdish Temple, heavily carved with figures of Vishnu. The remainder of the day will be at leisure.

This evening we will meet for our farewell dinner.

All meals included.

December 22nd | Udaipur - Delhi

We enjoy our final morning at leisure and later, we transfer to Delhi airport.

Breakfast & dinner included.

December 23rd | Depart Delhi

We embark on our individual flights home or onward travel.

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 3 nights in Delhi: 5*

2 nights in Agra: 4*

1 night in Varnasi: 4*

2 nights in Jaipur: 4*

2 nights in Khajuraho: 4*

2 nights in Jodhpur: 4*

1 night in Orchha: 4*

2 nights in Udaipur: 5*

Delhi Jaipur Jodhpur

Agra Gwalior Varanasi

Orchha Udaipur

Khajuraho

1 night in Gwalior: 4*

A/C coach, domestic flights: Delhi - Varanasi Khajuraho, Udaipur - Delhi

India

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/inn

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SECRETS OF THE YUCATAN Maya Mexico 14 Days | December 7th - 20th $5,890 (exc. international airfare) Single Supp: $1,150

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Chichen Itzรก

View of the cathedral in Campeche, Mexico

CANCÚN - CHICHÉN - UXMAL - CAMPECHE - CALAKMUL - PALENQUE SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LAS CASAS - TUXTLA GUTIÉRREZ Why, after reaching the peak of their power in the 6th century AD (the ‘Classic’ period), did the great Maya citystates of Mesoamerica fade into dramatic decline, leaving most of their huge stone cities abandoned by AD 900?

A definitive answer remains elusive, despite extensive excavations that have exposed the sites of towering Maya ruins whose temples and palaces (many in distinctive stepped pyramid shape and enhanced by elaborate reliefs and inscriptions) bear evidence of ritual human sacrifice. Although the unique Maya civilization is long gone, its pervasive influence remains embedded here in the landscapes and lifestyles of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.

With extensive exploration of the forested northern lowlands our tour will attempt to unravel some of these many enigmas, introducing you to the Maya skills in hieroglyphic writing, architecture, mathematics, astronomy - and more! We’ll discover some of the Classic period’s finest architecture at Palenque and Yaxchilán (perhaps the grandest cities of the era), Uxmal and Chichén Itzá (among the last to suffer decline), as well as visiting other lesser-known but equally impressive sites. We end in the southern highland town of San Cristóbal de las Casas, renowned for its lovely colonial buildings, poignant reminders of the impact of Spanish invasion upon the Maya world.

Tour Highlights Wander through atmospheric ancient ruins, including those of vast Calakmul, lost in thick jungle and known as the ‘Kingdom of the Snake’ Relax on a memorable river trip on the Río Usumacinta, amid tree-forest draped with vines and orchids Discover amazing Uxmal, the Yucatan peninsula’s most spectacular ancient Maya city Look out for colorful parrots and macaws flying overhead and monkeys scampering through the trees of the nature reserves through which we pass Explore the archaeological site of Chichén Itzá, one of the largest Maya cities and one of the most visited in Mexico today

Expert Scholar Dr. Franco D. Rossi is an archaeologist and epigrapher specializing in the pre-Columbian Americas, with a focus on politics of literacy, architecture and art of the Ancient Maya. His most recent projects draw from fieldwork he conducted at the site of the Xultan in Northeastern Guatemala as part of the Bartolo/ Xultuan Regional Archaeological Project.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com/mex

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YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY December 7th | Cancún

We arrive in the seaside city of Cancún, a place known to its Mayan inhabitants as Nizuc – a word which translates to “promontory” or “point of grass”. These days the area is famed for its sandy beaches and azure seas. There is time to explore or relax in the city this afternoon.

Tonight, we will come together as a group for our first night’s dinner, the perfect opportunity to get to know each other.

Dinner included.

December 8th | Cancún - Chichén

Our second day begins with a trip to the Museo Maya de Cancún.

This brilliant museum holds a priceless collection of Yucatán artifacts, including ceramics and jewelry, as well as exhibits on the modernday Maya community. From here we head to the ruins of Ek Balam, a once flourishing Maya kingdom swathed in jungle, where we find a selection of stelae and reliefs, as well as a towering acropolis. As the day draws to a close we arrive at our hotel near Chichén Itzá where we have dinner.

All meals included.

December 9th | Chichén - Uxmal

We divide one of the world’s greatest wonders into New Chichén and Old Chichén today, for a fully immersive encounter with this remarkably well-preserved Mayan complex. This morning it’s in with the new, as we tour buildings dating from the Toltec period of AD 1000-1200, while the afternoon sees us exploring the older Classic structures. Together we wander skull-carved platforms, admire iconic pyramids, peer into the sacred cenote, and listen to tales of Chichén Itzá’s thrilling, extensive, and sometimes bloody past.

All meals included.

December 10th | Uxmal

Following breakfast we venture into the jungle for a full day’s encounter with Uxmal, a late-Mayan World Heritage site famed for its Temple of the Magician, an imposing yet graceful structure with an origin story shrouded in mystery. At the height of its influence, Uxmal was home to around 25,000 inhabitants. It was also allied with Chichén Itzá, making it the most powerful site in all of western Palace of the Masks, Kabah

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Yucatán. Here we discover a host of pre-Hispanic ruins, carefully laid out in accordance with astronomical phenomena. Don’t miss the House of Turtles or the beautifully-carved Governor’s Palace.

All meals included.

December 11th | Uxmal - Campeche

This morning we pay a visit to Kabah, best known for its Palace of the Masks, a structure decorated with masks of the rain god Chaac.

Though the site was inhabited as far back as the 3rd century BC, the buildings here date mainly from the 9th century AD. After lunch we make our way to Labna, a Mesoamerican ceremonial center situated in the forests of the Puuc hills. More carvings of the hook-nosed god Chaac can be found here, along with the remains of both a two-storey palace and a decorated archway. Later today we drive to Campeche, a city founded by the Spanish in AD 1540.

All meals included.

December 12th | Campeche - Calakmul

We spend the morning at Campeche’s Archaeological Museum.

Located in an 18th-century fortress beside the Gulf of Mexico, within the museum’s majestic walls we discover an array of discoveries from regional excavations, and relics from Calakmul, including two impressive jade death masks. We bid farewell to the city and make the long but scenic drive inland to Calakmul itself. Tomorrow we explore all that this exceptional site has to offer.

All meals included.

December 13th | Calakmul

This morning we take in the ruins of Calakmul, also known as the “Kingdom of the Snake”. Situated in thick jungle near the Guatemalan border, Calakmul was once one of the largest Maya lowland cities in Mexico and covered an area of around 27 square miles. Highlights include Yucatán’s tallest pyramid, and an amazing array of stelae and murals. Following lunch, we go wild on a tour of the Calakmul Reserve, one of Mexico’s largest swathes of protected land. This is our chance to spot native fauna such as toucans and howler monkeys.

All meals included.

This tour has a physical rating of... *

December 14th | Calakmul

Our first destination today is Becán. Occupied from around 550 BC until the 1200s AD, Becán has a long history as a ceremonial center and holds some of the oldest defenses in Mexico. The nearby Xpuhil is our second and final stop of the day. Though less well-known than Becán and Calakmul, it too enjoyed a long period of occupation, and features ruins of elaborate structures. Xpuhil is also another great place to look for some of this area’s protected animal species.

All meals included.

Palenque Museum, which displays statues, reliefs, an ancient throne, and a copy of the lid of King Pacal’s sarcophagus.

All meals included.

December 18th | Palenque - San Cristóbal De Las Casas

We begin this morning at Balamkú, a small site which contains the longest surviving Maya frieze in the world: over 16 meters of painted stone reliefs depicting the surface of the earth. This epic sight dates back as far as the 6th century and lay undiscovered until the 1990s.

We depart the area and drive south to Palenque in preparation for our next two days of archaeological adventures.

All meals included.

We leave Palenque this morning, embarking on a journey to the Central Highlands, and San Cristóbal de Las Casas. En route we stop at the Classical period site of Toniná, where we admire groupings of pyramids and monuments bearing evidence of the city’s previous status as a rival to Palenque. Its tallest structure – a complex of temples and staircases – easily dwarves the majority of its contemporaries, and peaks at an astonishing 74 meters. In the afternoon we arrive at the gleaming colonial city of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, and enjoy a leisurely walking tour of its historic center.

San Cristóbal is a gathering place for the region’s many indigenous cultures, and there is much here to keep us all wandering in wonder.

Later we come together for a lively farewell dinner as a group.

All meals included.

December 16th | Palenque

December 19th | San Cristóbal De Las Casas

December 15th | Calakmul - Palenque

Our busy day begins at Bonampak, an Early Classic site famed for the richly-decorated interiors of its temple. View vibrant murals showing ritual scenes, performances, and gory representations of death. From here we make our way to Frontera, where we board a boat to take us up the Usumacinta River, once an important trade route for the Mayan civilization. Cruising through the tropical forest, we arrive at Yaxchilan, the ancient city which once dominated this region, and dealt in dyes and resin.

All meals included.

December 17th | Palenque

Today is all about Palenque, one of the most outstanding ceremonial centers we will see during our trip. Rising out of the jungle, Palenque’s fine set of ruins includes a stately observation tower, as well as the tomb of King Pacal the Great, who ruled these lands for an incredible 68 years from the start of the 7th century AD. What has so far been revealed serves as a jaw-dropping testament to the former might of the Maya. The site yields more to us this afternoon by way of the

Tour Information We stay in selection of hotels, hand-picked by our experts, ensuring they are the best available: 1 night in Cancún: 4*

3 nights in Calakmul: 4*

1 nights in Chichén Itzá: 4*

3 nights in Palenque: 4*

2 nights in Uxmal: 5*

2 nights in San Cristóbal de Las Casas: 4*

1 night in Campeche: 4*

The final full day of our tour sees us traveling to San Juan Chamula, a Tzotzil Maya town famed for its unusual church: a place carpeted with pine needles, that glows in the light of hundreds of colorful candles. Animal sacrifices take place here to this day. We also pay a visit to the charming town of Zinacantán, another modern-day indigenous settlement, where Catholic and Mayan traditions both show their influence. We return to San Cristóbal de Las Casas in the afternoon, where we use our free time to explore the city at our own pace. Peruse local handicrafts at the market, marvel at the 18th-century cathedral, or delve into the Maya Medicine Museum, to learn more about the history and practice of its healers.

Breakfast & lunch included.

December 20th | Depart Tuxtla Gutiérrez

We transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Mexico

Chichén Cancún

Uxmal

Campeche

Calakmul Palenque San Cristóbal De Las Casas Tuxtla Gutiérrez

A/C Coach

If you have any questions about this tour, please contact a member of our team today:

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130

www.archaeological-tours.com/mex

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Guests admiring architecture in Perugia

MEET OUR EXPERT SCHOLARS....

Introducing our full roster of archaeologists, academics, writers, historians and experts. We are proud to work with our expert scholars, who bring unique and specialized insight to every tour they lead. Join noted professors from renowned institutions and respected archaeologists alike for the journey of a lifetime.

Dr. Caroline Goodson

Dr. Caroline Hebron

University Senior Lecturer with the Faculty of History, University of Cambridge, Caroline earned her PhD at Columbia University.

In 2016, she was awarded a Leverhulme Trust Research Fellowship for her project, “Urban gardening in early Medieval Italy: Cultivating the City�, and she is Field Director at the site of Villa Magna in Italy. She has also published extensively on medieval documentary and historical texts, such as hagiography, diplomata & charters.

An archaeologist who specializes in ancient Egypt, Caroline currently works on a freelance basis on a variety of projects throughout the Near East, including excavations in Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Qatar and Turkey. She earned her PhD from University College London back in 2005 and is particularly interested in ancient Egyptian disease and medicine. You can join Caroline on our captivating Pharaohs & Pyramids tour.

Join Caroline on the following tour: From the Phoenicians to the Berbers....... page 34

Join Caroline on the following tour: Pharaohs & Pyramids....... page 14

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Dr. Christina Hatzimichael Whitley

Prof. Charles Doherty He recently retired from his post as Senior Lecturer in Early Irish History at University College Dublin, and in 2012 he gave the keynote address at the International Congress of Celtic Studies in Dublin.

Charles has been President of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland since 2009, and has written numerous articles on the cult of St. Patrick, the impact of Vikings upon Ireland and the concept of the monastic town.

An experienced tutor at the Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning in Greek Archaeology (known as LEARN), Christina specializes in Minoan Crete and is co-director of the Praisos survey and excavation project in Crete. She is Greek, but currently lives with her family in Cardiff, so speaks English very fluently.

If Greek history and archaeology interests you, why not join Christina on tour.

Join Charles on the following tour: Celts, Vikings & Saints....... page 58

Join Christina on the following tour: Ancient Aegean Kingdoms....... page 82

Prof. Craig Benjamin

Prof. Caroline Malone After earning her BA, MA and PhD in Archaeology from the University of Cambridge, she went on to work as a Professor of Prehistory at Queen’s University, Belfast.

Caroline’s research interests include fieldwork in mainland Italy, Malta, Sicily and Britain. Specific topics include archaeological theory and practice, Neolithic and Copper Age societies of Britain, Europe and the Mediterranean, and landscape and settlement archaeology.

He received his PhD from Macquarie University in Sydney, where he studied nomadic confederations of ancient Central Asia and their impact upon the Chinese Han dynasty and Greco-Bacrtia.

Craig has also published numerous articles, chapters and books, and he is currently under contract to co-author three new world history textbooks for McGraw Hill and Facts on File, including the first ever “Big History” textbook.

Join Caroline on the following tours: Classical Crossroads of the Mediterranean....... page 26 An Odyssey of Islands....... page 38

Join Craig on the following tours: In the Footsteps of Traders....... page 42 Relics of the Silk Road....... page 50

Dr. Dirk Booms

Prof. Gerry Schaus

Working as the curator of Roman archaeology at the British Museum, Dirk’s areas of specialty range from Roman architecture and sculpture, to glass and even inscriptions. He has excavated for many years across the Roman world, from Belgium to Tunisia. Dirk has most recently been involved in the excavation and partial reconstruction of Villa Magna, the luxurious villa retreat of emperor Marcus Aurelius. He studied Classical Archaeology at Leuven and did his doctoral research at Cambridge.

A former excavator at Cyrene in Libya, as well as at various sites throughout Greece and Italy, Gerry recently retired as the Professor of Archaeology and Classical Studies at Wilfred Laurier University in Canada, where he had taught since 1978. He is currently the President of the Canadian Archaeological Institute in Athens. Gerry has been leading tours in Europe for Archaeological Tours since 2016, and previously directed projects in Lesbos and at the Sanctuary of Athena.

Join Dirk on the following tour: Classical Crossroads of the Mediterranean....... page 26

Join Gerry on the following tour: Myths & Monuments....... page 74

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com

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Dr. Franco Rossi

Dr. Ian Colvin

An archaeologist and epigrapher specializing in pre-Colombian Americas, with a focus on politics of literacy, architecture and art of the ancient Maya.

His most recent project draws from fieldwork he conducted at the site of Xultan in North-east Guatemala, as part of the San Bartolo/ Xultan Regional Archaeological Project - examining the archaeology of the Los Sabios complex and its rare murals.

A historian specializing in the late Roman and Byzantine history of the Caucasus regions. He studied classical and modern Georgia after receiving his MST in Byzantine studies, and has devoted himself to excavations at the site of Nokalakevi. Ian trained at Oxford and is now a researcher at the University of Cambridge, England. Ian also speaks and reads Georgian fluently.

Join Franco on the following tour: Secrets of the Yucatan....... page 98

Join Ian on the following tour: Colors & Contrasts of the Caucasus....... page 78

Dr. Ilona Bausch

Prof. John Hines

A Visiting Professor at Kokugakuin University in Tokyo, Japan. Ilona specializes in the archaeology of the Japanese Jomon period, particularly with regard to trade, social interaction, rituals and worldview among prehistoric foraging peoples. She is also researching the earliest use of jade in China, Korea, East Siberia and Japan.

Ilona speaks fluent Japanese.

Professor in the School of History and Archaeology at Cardiff University, and is a specialist in the archaeology of the early medieval period, particularly the material culture and literature of the Vikings. By combining research in literature, language and archaeology, he researches the relationship between texts and objects in Viking society.

Join Ilona on the following tour: Temples, Treasures & Traditions....... page 30

Join John on the following tour: Along the Baltic Shores....... page 54

Prof. John Rick

Dr. Luigi Prada

Associate Professor and Chair of Anthropological Sciences at Stanford University, Curator of Anthropological Collections, and past Director of Standford’s Archaeology Center.

His teaching concentrates on South American archaeology. For the last 13 years, John has directed fieldwork at Chavin de HuĂĄntar, a monumental World Heritage Site dating to around 10,000 BC.

A member of staff at the Egyptology Department of the University of Oxford, England. Luigi gained his degrees in Egyptology and Classics at the University of Milan and Oxford. He is a member of archaeological expeditions to Egypt and Sudan and has published on many aspects of the ancient Egyptian civilization. His research focuses on the investigation of ancient Egyptian text and language.

Join John on the following tour: Lost Cities of the Incas....... page 62

Join Luigi on the following tour: Pharaohs & Pyramids....... page 14

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Dr. Mehreen ChidaRazvi

Miranda Bruce-Mitford

A Research Associate in the Department of the History of Art at SOAS, and Assistant Editor for the International Journal of Islamic Architecture.

Mehreen specializes in the history of Islamic art, architecture and material culture in the early modern era, with a particular emphasis on the Persianate regions of Mughal South Asia, Central Asia and Iran.

A specialist in social anthropology, Burmese language and literature, Buddhist art and architecture of South and South-east Asia, and Oriental religious studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies, London. For years, Miranda has been a tutor for the Post-Graduate Diploma in Asian Arts at SOAS. She has also lectured and given gallery talks at the British Museum, Sothebys and the V&A Museum in London.

Join Mehreen on the following tours: Shrines & Serendipity....... page 18 Sanctuaries & Spices....... page 90 Maharajahs & Mugals....... page 94

Join Miranda on the following tour: Burmese Empires & Khmer Kingdoms...... page 86

Prof. Ori Soltes

Peter Yeoman

Ori is a professional lecturer at Georgetown University, and has also taught in the Classics department at John Hopkins and Cleveland State Universities. His area of specialization include Jewish, Christian and Muslim art and religions, classical philosophy, linguistics and Indo-European philology, as well as Greek and Roman art. Professor Soltes regularly leads tours throughout the Mediterranean basin.

Until recently, Peter was Head of Cultural Heritage at Historic Scotland, with responsibility for the archaeology and the knowledge base for the estate of 345 properties in their care. He wrote the new official guidebooks for Iona Abbey, Stirling Castle and Edinburgh Castle, and contributed to the Lonely Planet guide to Scotland. He has also travelled extensively in Italy, studying the history and archaeology.

Join Ori on the following tour: Iberian Empires of Antiquity....... page 46

Join Peter on the following tour: Megaliths & Mythologies....... page 70

Dr. Roy Larick

Dr. William Saturno

Roy has worked in Périgord region of South-west France for more than 10 years as Associate of the Direction des Antiquités Préhistoriques d’Aquitaine.

He is currently Adjunct Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Iowa. Roy has carried out research among contemporary herding and hunting societies of East Africa, related to arts and crafts. He is currently exploring early sites in East Asia.

William Saturno received his BA from the University of Arizona and his PhD from Harvard University.

In 2001, he discovered the remote archaeological site of San Bartolo, home to the oldest intact Maya murals to be found to date. He has since directed the San Bartolo Regional Archaeological Project, which is dedicated to understanding this area’s role in the period when Maya civilization was first forming.

Join Roy on the following tour: In the Shadow of Ancient Artists....... page 66

Join William on the following tour: Mesoamerican Mysteries....... page 22

You can see the complete biographies of our expert scholars on our website: www.archaeological-tours.com

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Booking Conditions Bookings with Archaeological Tours are accepted only in accordance with the terms and conditions detailed below.

Your Holiday Contract

When you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. Once you have received your confirmation invoice, it is your responsibility to check that the information and booking details, including the spelling of all passenger names, as stated on your invoice are correct and match the passport details. If any of the details on the confirmation invoice are incorrect, you must notify us immediately. We will pass on any additional charges incurred as a result of these details not being correct. We reserve the right to refuse to accept and/or not proceed with any booking at any time at our sole discretion.

How to Book

You can book now on any of the tours listed on our website or in our brochure, after enquiring either by telephone (866740-5130) or email (info@archaeologicaltrs.com). We are happy to hold bookings on our tours without commitment for seven days. After this, we require a deposit to confirm your place. Payment can be made by card, bank transfer, or check (payable to Archaeological Tours). We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express. There is no credit card fee for guests.

We do not accept post-dated checks, nor do we keep your card details. For overseas bank transfers, all fees must be paid by the guest(s).

Deposits & Payments

A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your place (the amount is subject to change during periods when promotional offers are in place). Final payment for all tours is due 12 weeks prior to departure.

Our Price Promise

It is our principle that the earlier you book, the lower the price you pay. When we launch our new tours, our lowest prices are made available to give you the very best value for money; prices can increase as the departure date approaches.

Program changes

For the majority of our tours, the program will remain exactly as described in the brochure. If we do have to make alterations, for instance due to changes in opening hours, we will do our utmost to ensure that these are for the benefit for our guests. We will inform guests in advance of any changes.

Insurance

We strongly recommend that all travelers are covered by comprehensive travel insurance and do not travel against medical advice. You should organize insurance immediately when you book, to ensure you have coverage against possible cancellation charges, medical treatment and repatriation.

Cancellation by you

In the event you must cancel a tour, we must receive your intent in writing, either by email or letter. The amount retained by Archaeological Tours will vary dependent on the amount of time between Archaeological Tours receiving your notice and the beginning of the tour, as detailed here.

Retained by Archeological Tours: • Expert Guide Lecturer • Tour Manager • Transportation as indicated in the itinerary.

• Arrival and departure transfers between the nearest international airport and first and last group hotels • 4*–5* accommodation or best available • Meals as specified in the itinerary • Entrances to all sites listed • Recommended reading list, study book, participant list, hotel list, country information, joining instructions, luggage labels, baggage straps • One checked suitcase and one carry-on bag that will fit under your seat. Size and weight allowances can vary dependent on destination • All appropriate gratuities to site guides, drivers, waiters and porters

Cancellation by us

In the event that we cancel your tour prior to the date of departure, occurring either due to low passenger numbers or major logistical barriers to operation, you will have the option to transfer to an alternative tour (and pay/receive a refund/credit in respect of any price difference) or accept a full refund of all monies paid.

The Tour Rate Includes

• Expert Guide Lecturer • Tour Manager • Transportation as indicated in the itinerary.

• Arrival and departure transfers between the nearest international airport and first and last group hotels • 4*–5* accommodation or best available • Meals as specified in the itinerary

Not Included in the Tour Rate

• International airfare and airport taxes • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond tour completion and/or visa fees • Travel insurance • Personal expenses such as room service, meals not specified in the itinerary, beverages not on menus or not indicated by tour staff, room service, excess baggage charges, and other optional incidentals • Extra hotel nights pre- and/or post-tour • Guide Lecturer and Tour Manager gratuities are not included and should be extended on a voluntary, individual basis.

Single Rooms

For those traveling alone but who prefer to share with another, we will endeavor to work out congenial rooming arrangements.

If a single room must be assigned due to the roommate’s canceling or incompatibility, or for any other reason, even if at the last moment or while on tour, the single supplement or prorate thereof must be collected.

212-986-3054 | Toll-free 866-740-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com

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IT’S TIME TO PLAN 2019...

What do you hope to experience in 2019? Do you want to stand before a monumental statue of Buddha in Sri Lanka? Or do you dream of discovering Maya ruins in Central Mexico? Let us make your wish a reality.

February

Egypt: Pharaohs & Pyramids

2nd - 17th with Dr. Luigi Prada

Sri Lanka: Shrines & Serendipity

5th - 20th with Dr. Mehreen Chida-Razvi

Central Mexico: Mesoamerican Mysteries

2nd - 15th with Dr. William Saturno

Italy: Classical Crossroads of the Mediterranean

10th - 24th with Prof. Caroline Malone

Japan: Temples, Treasures & Traditions

22nd - April 6th with Dr. Ilona Bausch

Tunisia & Morocco: From the Phoenicians to the Berbers

25th - April 8th with Dr. Caroline Goodson

Malta, Sardinia & Corsica: An Odyssey of Islands

4th - 18th April with Prof. Caroline Malone

Turkmenistan & Morocco: In the Footsteps of Traders

17th - 5th May with Prof. Craig Benjimn

Portugal & Spain: Iberian Empires of Antiquity

22nd - 7th June with Prof. Ori Soltes

Western China: Relics of the Silk Road

24th - June 11th with Prof. Craig Benjiman

June

Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia: Along the Baltic Shores

4th - 17th with Prof. John Hines

July

Ireland: Celts, Vikings & Saints

18th - August 1st with Prof. Charles Doherty

August

Peru: Lost Cities of the Incas

23rd - September 8th with Prof. John Rick

September

Spain & France: In the Shadows of Ancient Artists

15th - 29th with Dr. Roy Larick

Greece: Myths & Monuments

23rd - October 7th with Prof. Gerry Schaus

Scotland & Islands: Megaliths & Mythologies

3rd - 18th with Peter Yeoman

Armenia & Georgia: Colors & Contrasts of the Caucasus

30th - October 14th with Dr. Ian Colvin

Cyprus, Crete & Santorini: Ancient Aegean Kingdoms

7th - 21st with Dr. Christina Hatzmichael Whitley

Italy: Classical Crossroads of the Mediterranean

13th - 27th with Dr. Dirk Booms

Egypt: Pharaohs & Pyramids

9th - 24th with Dr. Caroline Hebron

Myanmar & Cambodia: Burmese Empires & Khmer Kingdoms

9th - 24th with Miranda Bruce-Mitford

South India: Sanctuaries & Spices

9th - 28th with Dr. Mehreen Chida-Razvi

North India: Maharajahs & Mughals

6th - 23rd with Dr. Mehreen Chida-Razvi

Mexico: Secrets of the Yucatan

7th - 20th with Dr. Franco Rossi

March

April

May

October

November

December

Contact us on 212-986-3054 | toll free: (866) 7440-5130 | www.archaeological-tours.com