Minanha Regional Settlement Survey
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"Deep in the tropical rain forests of western Belize lies a Maya city only recently rediscovered by archaeologists. Atop the highest ridge, the city of Minanhá lorded over some of the densest Maya population and household settlement archaeologists have ever discovered. What were all these people doing living in such a rugged locale? This significant new research project, directed by a joint Canadian/U.S. team of scientists is searching for answers to these and many more questions."
   

Want to be part of the Minanhá Regional Survey team sponsored in part by the Social Archaeology Research Project (SARP) and the California State University, Northridge? Partake in a major archaeological research project while being trained in the basics of Maya archaeology.

The MRS field school lays the groundwork for understanding the links between archaeological method and theory. Connecting field research techniques with larger interpretations and themes of ancient Maya behavior, this important field school offers a clear vision of the archaeological process, from finding and mapping a 1500-year-old Maya family home to interpreting the economic, political, and spiritual behaviors of its ancient residents.

   
This is an intensive full-immersion archaeological experience. The student enrolls in a four-week program requiring short stays both in tropical rainforest camps and a Belizean village. This class is a field study program designed to not only expose the student to rigorous training in archaeological method such as survey, excavation, and laboratory analysis, bust also to immerse the student in local and ancient Belize Maya culture. Additionally, students will interact daily with modern day Maya villagers. Much of class discussion will focus on this question of connecting the past and present, such as becoming aware of what local villagers are doing to maintain ancient customs and practice despite influences of western society.

Contact Samuel Connell or Ted Neff
Co-Directors Minanha Regional Survey

Web Site Design by Linda Neff


Jointly sponsored by SARP and
College of Extended of Learning, CSU Northridge