Project PARK Find Phasis

This is a brief of the status in April 2000 of project "PARK Find Phasis", on the Georgian Black Sea coast. Volunteers are welcome for the fieldwork.

Preview of 2000:

After the exciting discovery of what appears to be the vanished city of Phasis, PARK will continue its cooperation with the Center for Archaeological Studies (CAS) in Tbilisi in the year 2000. Several unusual programs are offered for the months of June to August 2000. Participation is limited, so early application and booking is essential. Students are invited to review with their respective schools whether credit might be obtained for their participation in these projects. Registration is to take place exclusively through PARK.

Continuation from previous year:

Maritime archaeological survey of central Georgian Black Sea coast, Batumi to Poti, for shipwrecks of 1st mill B.C., in connection with port town of Phasis.
Extended underwater survey and begin of underwater excavation of suspected Phasis site in estuary of Paliastomi.
Trial excavation of a remaining tower suspected to be a Roman fort described by Arrian, previously part of Russian military airport.

After the exciting discovery of what appears to be the vanished city of Phasis, PARK will continue its cooperation with the Center for Archaeological Studies (CAS) in Tbilisi in the year 2000. Several unusual programs are offered for the months of July to August 2000. Participation is limited, so early application and booking is essential. Students are invited to review with their respective schools whether credit might be obtained for their participation in these projects. Registration is to take place exclusively through PARK, a not-for-profit organization of Texas, USA.

Program 2000-Phasis:

PHASIS - Extended underwater survey and beginning of underwater excavation of suspected Phasis site in estuary of Paliastomi.

Our expedition in 1999 revealed about two thousand cultural items including pottery, a coin, glass, bones and building material dating from 6th century B.C. to the 8th c. A.D. Can we find further evidence of the ancient city?

Early July until early September, depending on number of registrations, with a core time of July 10 until August 26.

Participants are recommended to spend at least ten days on site, with the hours and days of active participation variable; extendable; also extendable for private excursions before or after; can be combined with other programs. This program is, at this time, not limited to a specific number of participants. Participants must be good swimmers and enjoy working in wet and underwater environments. Scuba diving is not necessary though helpful in some places. Lodging with double or triple occupancy will be in a camp with double A-frame houses located directly at the Black Sea about three miles south of Poti, with private van service to Poti and the lake.

All meals will be provided. Private charter boats and rafts will be provided. Private scuba gear can be brought in by participant or made available through us. Particular regulations apply, in particular in regards to safety and professionalism. US$ (tbd, budget will be finalized by May 15) food, lodging, all program related domestic transport, full participation for ten days on site, two days in Tbilisi, two days sight seeing and transport (14 days total). Additional days at discounted rates depending on location.

Program 2000-Fort:

Fort Phasis? - trial excavation of a supposed tower structure suspected to be the Roman fort described by Arrian, previously off limits as part of a Russian military airport.

Limited to a maximum of ten participants for one week each.

Time to be set according to preference at time of registration.

A land site immediately adjacent to the Rioni River, no particular requirements. Food and lodging - same as in Program Phasis and Poti.

Time tbd, possibly as substitute for Phasis during bad weather situation. Ideal for extension of time.

US$(tbd, budget will be finalized by May 15) food, lodging, all program related domestic transport, full participation for six days on site, two days in Tbilisi, two days sight seeing and transport (10 days total). Additional days at discounted rates depending on location or add-on program.

Discount if 2000-Fort is chosen as an add-on program.

Program 2000-Poti:

Maritime archaeological survey of central Georgian Black Sea coast, around city and harbor of Poti, for shipwrecks 1st mill B.C., in connection with port town of Phasis. Continuation from previous year.

Numerous amphorae and other cultural finds were made in this area in recent years. We hope to locate the wrecks from which amphorae of the 4th century B.C. and 2nd c. A.D. were found in 1999.

Participants are recommended to spend at least fourteen days on site, with four days diving, one day off, four diving, one off, four diving, weather permitting; extendable; also extendable for private excursions before or after; can be combined with other programs.

Exchange with Program 2000-Batumi possible.

This program is limited to a maximum of twelve qualified scuba divers from around the world associated with an accredited institution such as the Institute of Nautical Archaeology of the Texas A&M University, or similar. References a must. Note: This program is only for experienced divers as there is a strong current in the area and the underwater visibility is often very limited due to silting. Lodging with double occupancy will be in a camp with double A-frame houses located directly at the Black Sea about three miles south of Poti, with private van service to Poti.

All meals will be provided. Private charter boat will be provided. Private scuba gear can be brought in by participant or made available through us. Particular regulations apply, in particular in regards to safety and professionalism. US$ (tbd, budget will be finalized by May 15) food, lodging, all program related domestic transport, charter boat, full participation for fourteen days on site, two days in Tbilisi, two days sight seeing and transport (18 days total). Additional days at discounted rates depending on location or add-on program.

Program 2000-Batumi:

Batumi to Kobuleti - Maritime archaeological survey of the southern Georgian Black Sea coast, possibly extending to Poti, for shipwrecks I mill B.C. and early A.D. and for evidence of early trade activities.

Numerous amphorae finds and other cultural items were made in recent years. We hope to identify several possible sites containing ancient shipwrecks, and possibly focus on one of them for more detailed exploration.

Lodging with multiple occupancy will be in a separate house located directly at the Black Sea near Ciricikhe, between Batumi and Kobuleti, with regular scheduled bus service and private van service to Batumi and Poti.

All meals will be provided. Private charter boat will be provided.

Private scuba gear can be brought in by participant or made available through us. Particular details apply, in particular in regards to safety and professionalism. US$ (tbd, budget will be finalized by May 15) food, lodging, all program related domestic transport, full participation for fourteen days on site, two days in Tbilisi, two days sight seeing and transport (18 days total). Additional days at discounted rates depending on location or add-on program.

OTHER PROGRAMS in Georgia

Program 2000-Sites – Surveys of selected sites:

Depending on availability of sites threatened or disturbed by ongoing industrial development and pipeline construction, participants may choose to participate in ad hoc expeditions in lieu of time spent on other programs.

Same conditions as other programs. No additional cost if a) participant is otherwise enrolled in another program, b) site is within commuting distance (2 hours) of base lodging, otherwise minimal additional charge possible to cover additional cost of transport, lodging. Limited enrollment depending on requirements. This program may not be offered if no particular sites become available; however, all attempts will be made to enable at least some surveys or visits to other sites.

May also be used on R&R days or during bad weather; great for excursions.

This program does NOT include excursions to Svaneti, Atskuri, or Trialeti due to the distance from the base of Poti.

Program Svaneti 2000-MINE:

Survey and minimal excavation of an early bronze age mine, beginning of II millennium B.C. Otherwise same stipulations as Svaneti 2000-church.

Program Svaneti 2000-CHURCH:

Excavation of an 8 - 14 c A.D. church believed to be resting on an older Christian foundation and all that, in turn, possibly on a pre-Christian pagan sanctuary. Limited participation. No particular requirements. Time to be determined, best in July and August. Minimum of seven days in Svaneti including travel; can be used as extension to another program. Note: access to and exit from Svaneti by Jeep takes at least one day each way, weather permitting. Due to the difficulties in traveling in that region, only well bonded, small groups will be allowed to participate in these programs. Live within the extended family structure of the ancient Chartolani family who have resided in the same ancient structures for more than 1,200 years and who own two of the legendary towers of Svaneti. Visit century old buildings, meeting rooms, and churches, climb and hike the mountains, and enjoy one of the most remote and unspoiled corners of the world where the people speak a language which seems to not have changed much in some 2600 years. Not many people speak Georgian, few speak Russian, almost none speak English - you are in for a great adventure among the highest settlements in all of Europe! Some linguists have found affinity to the ancient language of Sumer, others find no relationship at all. Fiercely independent, the eastern Svans have never been conquered by any nation, and proudly call themselves Free Svaneti. The western Svans once submitted to a single leading family, the Dadeshkiliani, but when they became too bothersome they killed the leader and most of his family. This nation within a nation is based on a solid hierarchical family structure with one representative speaking for all. Svaneti is possibly the oldest surviving and functioning democracy in the world, yet one of the least studied regions, languages, and cultures.

US$( tbd, budget will be finalized by May 15) food, lodging, all program related domestic transport, full participation for seven days in Svaneti (7 days total). Possible only as add on to another program.

Program 2000 years Christianity:

The Footsteps of St. Andrew - test excavation of the interior court yard of Atskuri castle, presumed site of a fortress visited by Apostle St. Andrew, from which he is said to have seen a pagan sanctuary which he then destroyed. He is said to have entered Georgia through Phasis. The traditional date of the introduction of Christianity to Georgia, early 4th century, has recently been questioned based on archaeological finds which may indicate an earlier time. Limited participation. No particular requirements. Limited to one week; can be used as extension to another program. Location is on the Mkvari (Kura) River west of Borjomi in one of the most beautiful mountain regions of Georgia.

Time and number of participants to be determined, based on interest of participants. The site is relatively easily accessible.

US$(tbd, budget will be finalized by May 15) food, lodging, all program related domestic transport, full participation for seven days on site, two days in Tbilisi, two days sight seeing and transport (11 days total). Additional days at discounted rates depending on location or add on program.

Ideal combination with Svaneti 2000-church, for a total of 18 days.

Program 2000-Trialeti:

Survey and exploratory excavation of a megalithic fortress of the beginning of the II millennium B.C. and possibly also of a kurgan of the same era. Located in the highlands to the southwest of Tbilisi, this area is extremely fertile because of volcanic ash deposits of more than 4000 years of age. Very limited previous excavations have concluded this as of yet undefined culture to possibly be the mother culture of the Hittite or Urartrian kingdoms, or both. At this time, there are more questions than answers, and every day may bring new evidence.

Limited participation of one week for each group of five participants. No particular requirements.

Food and lodging in a CAS owned house.

US$ (tbd, budget will be finalized by May 15) food, lodging, all program related domestic transport, full participation for seven days on site, two days in Tbilisi, two days sight seeing and transport (11 days total). Additional days at discounted rates depending on location or add-on program.

General Remarks:

All rates are without airfare to and from Tbilisi. Depending on the number of participants, we will try to organize group rates at significant discounts from the USA and from London on British Airways. NOTE: Frequent flyer miles for AAL and BA can be applied to obtain tickets from the USA to Georgia; Georgia counts as Europe. Stopovers are usually permitted on the return trip. (check with the airlines).

Based on special arrangements with BA, open jaw tickets may be allowed and ticket change fees may be waived for participants of our program; however, certain restrictions apply. For example, you may arrive from USA to London to Tbilisi, depart from Baku/Azerbaijan to London, stop over, then continue back to the USA, all on applicable frequent flyer miles or at group discount rates through PARK.

There are no scholarships or grants available. Students are welcome to arrange for sponsors who may make donations to PARK. Provided certain stipulations are met, donations may be tax-deductible.

Persons requiring particular dietary, medical or personal attention are advised not to participate at this time as Georgia is not equipped to handle extraordinary demands or emergencies. Limited western medical facilities are available within walking distance from the camp in Poti, courtesy of the Georgia Petroleum Corporation, one of our sponsors. Participants are strongly advised to seek medical advice prior to their departure from their homeland as to the suitability of climate and task. Participants are strongly advised to obtain or ascertain the validity of a good medical insurance plan valid in Georgia including an emergency airlift to either western Europe or their home country. While no such step has been found necessary in the past, it is nevertheless strongly recommended for the brief period in question.

Divers have a ship-top decompression chamber available in Poti harbor or nearby, courtesy of the Georgia Petroleum Corporation.

The food in the greater Poti area (Mingrelia, Guria) is generally spicy, in other regions less so. One is strongly advised to bring any and all predictable medical, personal and hygenic supplies, even though most items may be available in the larger cities. Drinking water is plentiful and available in bottles. Western soft drinks and snacks are easily available.

Diving equipment is NOT easily obtained for purchase or rent.

Participants wishing to bring their own cars are advised to carefully verify all terms and conditions of importing, selling or exporting said vehicle. There are several ferries available to Poti and Batumi. Not recommended for short stay. We are not able to assist in handling the import procedure of a car.

Visa fees are US$ 80 for each two weeks, visas can easily be obtained at the airport in Tbilisi upon arrival. Participants will be met at the airport and escorted throughout their stay in Georgia unless specifically requesting otherwise. While most of Georgia is safe for international travellers, it is not advisable for single travellers or small groups to go into selected areas unless accompanied by locals. Normal discretion and common sense is required.

Credit cards are best to obtain US$ cash and local currency in Tbilisi, Batumi, and Poti. There are street side ATM machines in Tbilisi dispensing lari, the local currency, to most foreign VISA and MasterCards. MC may be subject to additional commissions. Western Union agencies are virtually everywhere. Traveller checks are not advisable due to high discount rates.

For the safety of our divers, drivers, professionals and other participants, alcoholic consumption is strictly prohibited on the evening before and during diving days. In addition and otherwise, all local laws apply.

The use of drugs will not be tolerated, and we maintain a zero tolerance policy in this regard. Please note that all international laws in regards to drug trafficking, possession and use apply in Georgia. Jails are not very pleasant places in this part of the world.

Days or nights in Tbilisi are spent overnighting in private apartments or B&B or hotels, as required; there is time for sightseeing, shopping, spare time if requested. Transport between Tbilisi and base lodging will be in vans. Transport between base lodging and sites may be in vans, passenger cars, jeeps, or other suitable transportation (sorry, no horse drawn carriages!).

For preparation and fun - cruise the internet for Georgia and Svaneti.

Prince Hans von Sachsen-Altenburg, April 2000

NEWSBRIEFS

Archaeology, Volume 52 Number 6, November/December 1999

SUNKEN CITY FOUND

A joint Georgian-American expedition has recovered artifacts that they believe establish the location of Phasis, the legendary destination of Jason and the Argonauts in their quest for the Golden Fleece. Underwater archaeologists have discovered part of a settlement inhabited from at least the fourth century B.C. to the eighth century A.D. under the waters of Lake Paliostomi, on the central coast of the Republic of Georgia. Numerous ancient authors, including Strabo, Arrian, and Aristotle, provided descriptions of the city that have allowed previous scholars to determine that Phasis was located in the general vicinity of Poti, a major military and commercial port of the former Soviet Union.

...

(for full text click on the link to see the article in Archaeology)

http://www.archaeology.org/9911/newsbriefs/city.html

by KRISTIN M. ROMEY

1999 by the Archaeological Institute of America

The 1999 Expedition to the Georgian Black Sea Coast

by Dan Davis, INA Research Associate Conference Paper, Tbilisi, April 2000

As you know, Phasis has eluded nearly every effort to establish its location. The ancient sources intimate that it once lay somewhere near the mouth of the Rioni. If it was there, how can we know that the present mouth of the river has not migrated north or south along the coastline? Or has the shoreline advanced toward the sea due to heavy siltation, thereby placing the ancient city somewhere upstream? Conversely, has the shoreline receded, the victim of the Black Sea's scouring currents, thereby placing our city somewhere offshore, deep underwater? Indeed the scarcity of physical evidence has led some scholars to suspect that the city may have subsided into the sea. And there is geological evidence to reinforce this view. About 6,000 years ago, the Black Sea finally slowed its steady rise, fixing the Georgian coastline some 50 kilometers west of where it is today.

...

In June of 1999, at the invitation of Prince Hans von Sachsen of PARK and Professor Licheli of the Center for Archaeological Studies, a team from the Institute of Nautical Archaeology was dispatched to Georgia in an attempt to find an answer to the question – does Phasis lie in the sea near Poti?

...

(for full text click on the link to see the article on the INA web site)

http://nautarch.tamu.edu/

by Dan Davis

page published April 2000