Published 15 September 2026 | Community

TL;DR: Volunteers are invited to join an archaeological excavation this October at Los Millares near Almeria, helping uncover the history of one of Western Europe’s oldest Copper Age settlements.

Join the Los Millares Archaeological Dig

Invitation to Participate

The archaeological site of Los Millares, located in Santa Fe de Mondujar near Almeria, is seeking volunteers for its upcoming excavation campaign in October. This project, coordinated by the University of Granada (UGR), opens a unique opportunity for people to engage directly in uncovering the past of one of the key settlements of the Copper Age in Western Europe. The campaign encourages citizens with an interest in history and archaeology to work alongside professionals in the field.

Work Details and Schedule

Fieldwork will be carried out Monday through Friday during the morning hours to avoid the intense midday heat typical of the region. Volunteers can also choose to spend afternoons helping with the cleaning and sorting of artifacts uncovered earlier in the day. The excavation campaign will run throughout October, offering weekly or biweekly shifts to accommodate participants’ availability.

Requirements and Training

No previous archaeological experience is necessary to take part. The UGR team will provide basic training in excavation techniques to all volunteers. Ideal candidates include students of History, Archaeology, or related disciplines, as well as motivated individuals who are physically able to handle the demands of fieldwork. Commitment and enthusiasm are key, along with a readiness to learn and participate in this hands-on research environment.

About Los Millares and the Research Focus

Los Millares is internationally recognized for its remarkable defensive walls and forts, alongside a significant necropolis featuring collective tombs. This excavation is part of a multi-year research project led by the University of Granada aiming to better understand how social inequality first emerged in the prehistoric southeastern Iberian Peninsula. The findings at Los Millares shed light on early societal structures during the Copper Age, making the site a vital piece in Europe’s archaeological heritage.

How to Get Involved

Those interested in volunteering or seeking further details on the campaign—including living arrangements and available places—are invited to send their CV to the project’s official email address: doradoalejos@ugr.es. This is a rare chance to experience archaeology firsthand while contributing to a deeper understanding of Europe’s ancient past.

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