Ancient Southern Spain

Megaliths, Cave Paintings and Architecture in Andalucia



This travel course focuses on the Neolithic Period of Southern Spain, in the province of Andalucia. It's a continuation of three previous courses in United Kingdom and Ireland. There, we studied the earliest megaliths on the islands and all signs pointed to Portugal and Southern Spain as their probable inspiration. Now we follow the trail there!

Alhambra
Participants will fly into Malaga and spend their first day there, learning about the region's deep human history and visiting the Picasso Museum - Malaga is where he was born. Then, it's off to Granada, once the heart of Spain's Moorish kingdom. An entire day will be devoted to its beautiful moorish architecture, especially the Alhambra Palace and Fortress. With those must sees under their belt, participants will step back in time to the Neolithic.

Dolmendesoto
The next two days will be devoted to exploring the dolmens of Andalucia, neolithic burial chambers made of megalithic stones. First stop - the UNESCO world heritage site of the Dolmens of Antequera. Then second day devoted to the Dolmens of Soto and Valencina with a lunch in the coastal town of Huelva. Overnights during these days will be in Seville, considered by many Spain's most beautiful city.

Gibraltar
On the sixth day of the course we will step even further back in time - 20,000 years with a visit to the paleolithic paintings in Pileta Cave. That evening will be spent in Ronda, admiring its amazing gorge bridge and Spain's first and largest bull fighting ring. The final day of the course will step out of Spain into the British territory of Gilbraltar. A bus tour will bring participants to the famous Rock of Gibraltar and a local museum displaying the evidence of Neanderthals who live in caves inside the rock until about 32,000 years ago. The course will end back in Malaga that evening with a final party and closing course ceremonies.



For people with an interest in...

History, archaeology, anthropology, astronomy, mythology, sociology, and other related science and social sciences fields.

Prerequisites

While not required, participants are encouraged to have at least some knowledge of the history of southern Spain and the Neolithic in Europe. Dr. Ed Barnhart can recommend readings for those interested in learning more before the trip. Day trips will involve hiking in hot and humid weather. While it will not be physically challenging, participants in weak physical condition are encouraged to build strength and stamina before the trip.



Costs
$2800 per person (double room lodging)
Add $500 for single room lodging supplement
Flights
Participants are responsible for arranging their own flight reservations to and from Malaga, Spain. Since participants come from all over the country, recommending a single flight is impossible. As of October 2018, round trip flights from Newark to Malaga are running just less than $700 on average on multiple airlines. Of course, the airline industry is dependent on the market and fees are subject to change. Flights that arrive early in the morning could give you an extra day to explore Malaga and/or overcome jetlag.
Hotels During the Course
Malaga - Petit Palace Plaza Hotel or similar - in the center of historic Malaga
Granada - Palace de Santa Ines or similar - within walking distance of Alhambra
Seville - Hotel Dona Maria or similar - In the center of Seville
Ronda - Hotel San Gabriel or similar - Near the bullring in the tiny town
Included
Lodging, private ground transportation, breakfasts, all entry fees, professional guides in certain restricted locations and evening lectures. Digital copies of the presentations given during the course will be provided upon request.
Not Included
Airfare to/from Malaga, airport transfers to and from hotel in Malaga, lunches, dinners, and gratuities.
Spain Visas
There are no special requirements for a tourist visa in Spain for US citizens, simply a US passport to show at immigration. Any entry fees should have been part of your airline ticket price.
Its always a good idea to make sure your passport has at least six months left before expiration and one fully blank page free of stamps.
How to register for the course

To secure a place in the course, a $600 deposit to Ancient Explorations is required. The course is limited to 20 participants. Balance payments will be due in two installements - 50% due at 90 days before the course on March 12th and the remaining 50% due at 30 days before the course on May 12th.

You must also fill out the registration form (PDF) and email it to Ancient Explorations at info@ancientexploration.com. Or if you prefer, send a printed out copy to the address below.


Pay by check
Please send your deposit by check made out to Ancient Explorations to:
Ancient Explorations
3267 Bee Caves Rd
Suite 107-161
Austin, TX 78746
Pay with PayPal