2023: Stories from the field
By Milan Gijben, 2023.My name is Milan, I am 21 years old, and I am from the Netherlands. I just finished my Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology at Leiden University, and I am currently continuing my studies there, with a master in Archaeological Science. During my Bachelor. I was fortunate enough to be a part of the 2023 edition of the HMC-project in Euboea, Greece. This project and internship I still consider to be one of the best experiences of my archaeological career and let me tell you why!
In July of 2023, I travelled from Leiden towards the small city of Psachna, found on the Island of Euboea. Here the entire team stayed for the next couple of weeks. Important to mention about Psachna is its small, yet cozy city centre, containing the best terrace in the world, where me and the team would spend most of our afternoons. After a day of resting, my internship actually began. The HMC-project mainly consisted of three components: Intensive fieldwork, which involved surveying, documenting, and collecting materials from different sites; extensive fieldwork, which consisted of going through Euboea towards possible archaeological sites and areas to identify future sites for the HMC-project and beyond; and finally, the depot, in which all find processing would occur.
My favourite part of the project was the intensive fieldwork, as it allowed me to experience, learn, and practice many of my archaeological skills, while experiencing multiple beautiful sites. I enjoyed almost every single aspect, from measuring Medieval Church walls, to documenting ceramic sherds I trowelled out of an archaeological profile. The surrounding landscapes, towers, and early sunrise were only the icing on the cake for me! The depot itself was also very enjoyable and fun, as here I discovered my love of artefacts. Working at the depot allowed me to not only see a lot of different materials up-close, like ceramics, bone, metal, and more, but I also got to learn how to properly clean and document them from some amazing specialists. Sadly, I was able to only experience one day of extensive fieldwork. However, this was the only time in my life I actually felt like Indiana Jones. Going on an adventure with a few people, discovering old destroyed towers and a possible stone wall, and collecting different kinds of artefacts is something I will never forget.
It is important to note however that his project would not have been the same without the incredible students, staff members, and specialists. I was able to explore some Euboean cities, walk throughout the beautiful Greek landscape, and joined a few fun activities, while being surrounded by both old and new friends alike. The team supported, encouraged, and laughed with each other throughout the weeks, which really made the HMC-project a very special experience in my opinion.
The HMC-project was an amazing experience for me. It was the place where I not only learned new aspects of archaeology, and where I made new friends and memories, but also where I discovered a lot of new things about myself. I learned about my archaeological interests, my love for artefacts, and that you absolutely NEED to take care of yourself during fieldwork, otherwise you are going to miss out on some beautiful archaeology. Therefore, I will finish this piece with the following: Thank you to Professor Vroom and the HMC-project for allowing me to join this fieldschool, and don’t forget to drink some water! Cheers!
