PortAnta Scientific Commission Statement

PortAnta is an organization dedicated to facilitating/sponsoring archaeological opportunities in Portugal.  Being a foreigner and having excavated and lived in Portugal for several years now, my desire is to help foreign students and researchers to have the same life-shaping experiences as I did...and still do.

PortAnta is managed by Maia Langley and Rui Boaventura. A research cooperative was initiated by us to unite Portuguese archaeologists and researchers, who had viable and worthwhile projects and who were willing to educate and inform participants, to utilize foreign students at their excavations and in research projects. Knowing that many students of archaeology and museum studies never get an opportunity to work in-depth and hands on with archaeological material from European Prehistoric and Classical sources, the invitation of foreign students to work with these professionals seemed like a relationship that could be beneficial to both the researcher and the student (see student testimonial below).

Unlike many study abroad programs, these opportunities are directed, or co-directed, and instructed by people who are native to their country and are specialized in their fields.  All instructors and directors are fluent in several languages - English included.  The amount of submersion in Portuguese culture and language, that any participant wants, is dependent upon that individual.  These are not opportunities, however, that are meant to “hand-hold” foreign students.  They are meant to challenge and involve participants in real archaeological experiences and research opportunities.

The wealth of research and opportunities in a country of incredibly hospitable and inviting people is abundant and my hopes are to encourage foreigners to engage, in a real and meaningful way, the history, people and modern culture of Portugal.

In short, PortAnta aims to encourage personal growth, educate, stimulate and enrich the lives of the participants who truly want to learn and have fun while dedicating themselves to a worthwhile academic pursuit.

PortAnta Scientific Commission

        "I am very fortunate to have interned with PortAnta during the summer of 2006 at the National Museum of Archaeology in Lisbon.   The experience PortAnta offers is truly exceptional because of your level of involvement as their intern.  There's nothing like hands-on experience, and they've got it.  Not only do you learn a great deal about your project, you also truly feel that you are substantially contributing to the growing scientific scholarship of Portugal.  The work you do is real and definitely has impact.   Director Maia Langley is an absolute pleasure to work with as she is equally as thorough with the program goals as she is with her hospitality and care for the welfare of all participants.   An added bonus is the appreciation you have for Portugal and its beautiful culture and language.  Engaging locals in conversation, exploring Lisbon and Belem, listening to Portguese fado singers while passing restaurants, eating delicious pastries and even simple walks by Tejo River after a hard days work makes life so enriching.  This is an abroad experience you want, and PortAnta can give you that and more. "