Each summer, Mount Allison University offers students the opportunity to attend an archaeological field school in southern Italy led by Dr. Ilaria Battiloro, a professor in the Department of Classics and the Visual and Material Culture program. Participants gain invaluable hands-on experience that enhances their academic understanding of ancient cultures and historical research methods, all while immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of Italy.

Launched in 2023 in partnership with Princeton University’s Mattia D’Acri and supported by Italy’s cultural heritage authority, the field school focuses on Torre Mordillo (in the Spezzano Albanese municipality), an Indigenous site in Southern Italy occupied from the Bronze Age through the 3rd century BCE. Located near the ancient Greek colony of Sybaris, this settlement provides rich insights into the interactions between local communities, such as the Oenotrians and Brettians, and the Greek world.

In the summer of 2024, fourteen students (eleven from Mount Allison and three from Bishop’s University) joined the project, supported by generous funding from the Global Skills Opportunity program. Through daily hands-on experiences, students engaged with archaeological methods, including excavation, stratigraphy, and the processing of finds, all under the guidance of program directors and professional archaeologists.

Participants emphasized the academic enrichment provided by the program and the strong sense of community it fosters. For Mount Allison students, the Torre Mordillo Archaeological Field School represents more than just uncovering ancient sites, it plays a pivotal role in shaping their futures. Regardless of whether they pursue careers in archaeology, history, or other fields, the skills and insights they acquire are profoundly beneficial.

Anna Maria Bacalu, a third-year student double majoring in history and psychology, says, “This experience helped me grow both academically and personally. I learned so much — not just about archaeology, but about teamwork, problem-solving, and the value of working in a close-knit community. A piece of my heart will always be in Spezzano.”

According to Battiloro, the Torre Mordillo Archaeological Field School is not about studying history; it is about living it. Students gain firsthand experience in archaeological investigation methods, build lasting friendships, and embrace cultural diversity. As a result, they leave with more than just knowledge — they carry away memories, skills, and a broader perspective on the world.

“At Torre Mordillo, the past isn’t simply studied; it is brought vividly to life. For the students who participate, it is a narrative they will be sharing for years to come,” she says.

What makes this program unique is its emphasis on outreach. Students collaborate with local communities to highlight the cultural and historical significance of Torre Mordillo, advocate for its preservation, and demonstrate how archaeology connects us to the past in meaningful ways.

This experience is not just technical — it is personal. Students live together in a close-knit residential environment, collaborating with peers, faculty, and local experts. They explore nearby archaeological sites, visit museums, and delve deeply into the culture of Spezzano Albanese, an Arbëreshë (Italo-Albanian) town known for its unique blend of traditions.

Second-year classics student Charlotte Bergen reflected on her experience, saying, “This was my first time traveling internationally and I could not have asked for a better experience. I will never forget the places we explored, the friendships I made, or the things I learned, academically. From the perspective of a classics student, this experience allowed me to personally explore what the discipline has to offer and I have been distinctly more engaged in my courses this semester.”