Andante Travels 2017 Main Brochure UK by Specialist Journeys

Journ e ys into the

A n c ient World 2017

arranged by andante travelsÂ expert-led archaeological and cultural tours since 1985

The Rise & Fall of Minoan Civilisation... Discover enchanting sites, wildflower-strewn hills, and superb special access.

Crete & Santorini

April, May, September & October 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; see page 74 for full details

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WELCOME

Discover the best of the ancient world in 2017 Dear Traveller, I am delighted to present our full programme of tours for 2017. It’s quite an impressive tome. Hopefully you will forgive us for the length, as you flick through and discover the truly tremendous array of destinations, experts, sites and eras we have on offer this year. One of the wonderful things about being Andante’s Director is working with the passionate experts who put these tours together. Their enthusiasm is infectious! This year we add Dr Gai Jorayev’s Kazakhstan to our growing range of Asian tours – the beauty of Almaty Lake, and the Silk Road splendour of Otrar are spectacular and — until now — almost entirely overlooked by travellers. Alongside our far-flung adventures, we also have tours which present familiar sites in completely new ways. Our Romans in London and Paris tour reveals monumental archaeological remains, below modern city streets, whilst exploring the Cyclades by Gulet gives us wonderful access to classical island remains. Join us as we sail the Aegean, imagining the lives of merchants, sailors and soldiers who traversed these waters in past millennia... If you are new to Andante Travels, a very warm welcome! All you need to enjoy our tours is a sense of adventure and an interest in discovering more of the wonders of the ancient world. If you have any questions about any of our tours please do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team on 01722 713800. With best wishes for happy travels,

Ian Finlay, Director Andante Travels

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travelling with Andante putting archaeology first

Founded and run by archaeologists, Andante Travels is one of the UK’s leading specialist tour operators. We are proud to say that we work with the CBA (Council for British Archaeology), CWA (Current World Archaeology) and each year award our own Andante Archaeology Award to deserving projects.

expert guides

Our tours are conceived, planned and led by articulate experts: archaeologists, historians, writers and broadcasters. Drawing on the ancient sites we visit, our Guide Lecturers are able to build up a vivid picture of life in the past with knowledge, good humour and skill.

professional tour managers

Andante Travellers are interesting, intelligent people leading all manner of different lives - we aim to create an easy and informal atmosphere. Our maximum group size ranges from 14-25 guests, with the average group size currently 18.

value for money

Unless otherwise stated all our tours include: flights, Guide Lecturer, Tour Manager, all meals, hotel, wine, local travel, entry to all sites, field notes and tips. We also guarantee not to pass on any currency surcharges — the price of your tour will stay the same, no matter what the price of the pound, dollar or euro.

great hotels & fabulous food

Our tours are also accompanied by a professional Tour Manager. Efficient and charming, our Tour Managers ensure that all the practical details of your holiday are taken care of. They are also excellent company and include linguists, writers, ornithologists, botanists and fellow travel enthusiasts.

We hand-pick the hotels you stay in. The vast majority are 4*, but the occasional excellent 3* or 5* could appear along the way. Over and above the star-rating, we endeavour to offer guests an authentic hotel of character. Most of our tours include all meals, and we have some spectacular ‘special meals’, from dinner in the Prussian palaces of Berlin to picnics in the hills of Sicily.

exclusive special access

holidays everyone can enjoy

Ever wanted to explore the Sistine Chapel, one of the most famous sites of Rome, but without the usual crowds? Visit the trenches of a working excavation, or stand amongst the very stones of Stonehenge? Each of our tours features exclusive access to some of the greatest sites, monuments and museums in the world.

small groups

Our groups include people of all ages and from all walks of life. All you need is enthusiasm and an enquiring mind. We have had wonderful tours, travelling with engaged guests of all ages. Please note that all our tours are moderately active and involve walking so reasonable fitness is required.

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peace of mind

When you travel with us, you will be looked after around the clock. In the unlikely event of an emergency, Andante staff will be on hand to help you both on tour and from the UK. We are experts in dealing with the unexpected. We have a 24-hour emergency number and you will be accompanied by Andante staff throughout.

full financial protection

All our holidays are fully bonded and protected. The air holiday packages in this brochure are ATOL Protected, since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 3552. ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services in this brochure. Holidays without flights are protected by ABTOT. This means that in the unlikely event of our insolvency, your holiday would be completed or refunded.

you can book on any tour in this brochure... For this year or the next You can ring, email, or go online to book your place on any of the tours in this brochure. Each one is now fully priced and has a detailed itinerary, all of which can be found on our website. More details on how to book, insurance, and our financial security can be found on pages 96 – 97. You can also call the office — we are open 9 – 5 Monday to Friday and are always happy to answer any questions you may have.

01722 713800

tours@andantetravels.com USA: 1-888-331-3476 Australia: 02 9191 2623

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special access

Enjoy unique glimpses into the ancient world on every Andante Travels tour...

vatican secret archives

stonehenge

st mark’s basilica

Hidden Rome — full details on page 100...

The Story of Wessex — full details on page 196...

Hidden Venice — full details on page 104...

Rome is one of those cities that we all assume we know inside out. Regardless of how many times you visit, this former powerhouse of the Roman Empire can still surprise you – especially during one of our ‘hidden’ city tours. Receive special access to the Secret Archives of the Vatican, where only officials and scholars usually tread. We have also secured out of hours access to countless treasures of ancient Rome at the Capitoline Museum – considered by many to have been the first museum in the world.

We were delighted when Wiltshire’s very own Stonehenge was rated one of the 100 best places to visit in the world by Lonely Planet! Stonehenge stands at the heart of a landscape rich in Neolithic and Bronze Age remains. Many of us have experienced Stonehenge from a distance - but wouldn’t you love to get a closer look? Take the rare opportunity to walk within the great stones and enjoy a truly privileged encounter with an iconic monument which has graced the British landscape for more than 4000 years.

Our Venice tour casts an insider’s eye over almost every facet of these lagoon islands. We view the opulent displays of gold ground mosaics at St. Mark’s basilica during a special crowd-free evening visit. We also wind our way through back rooms, prisons and hidden offices, following a secret itinerary at the Doge’s Palace – the former seat of Venetian government. Finally, we learn how some of Venice’s most popular souvenirs are made, during a specially arranged tour of the Murano glass factory.

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prehistoric cave art

british institute, amman

cappella palatina

Dordogne - Prehistoric Cave Art — full details on page 54...

Jordan & Petra — full details on page 152...

Classical Sicily — full details on page 106...

pont du gard

the palace of malia

el puig des molins

Vintage Provence — full details on page 52...

Crete & Santorini — full details on page 74...

Phoenicians in Spain — full details on page 174...

Discover unique and increasingly difficult to see Paleolithic art in the company of rock art experts, Dr Paul Bahn and Dr Iain Morley.

Enjoy special access to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard; and an exclusive tasting in the iconic Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation.

Discover more about Jordan’s Neolithic heritage – during a private introduction to the British Institute in Amman, from the director herself.

Enjoy a truly privileged visit to the huge Minoan complex of Malia – built in a wonderful setting near the sea, around 1900 BC.

Visit the Cappella Palatina away from the crowds. The exquisite triumph of Norman architecture simply has to be seen to be believed.

Discover tombs from the 7th century BC – cut deep into the Ibizan hillside – during a special tour of the necropolis of El Puig des Molins.

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EXPERT Guide Lecturers Archaeologists, writers, broadcasters and historians, a constellation of expert guides able to bring the past to life. Our Guide Lecturers accompany you from morning until night. These are the people who make our tours unique...

dr denise allen

is a specialist in Roman glass, with over 100 publications related to her name. She has excavated all over the UK, including at Stonehenge, and overseas.

e have seen many guides in many different parts of the world and none have been in the same league.” Guests in 2014

brian ayers

diana blumberg

dr paul bahn

david brotherson

dr tertia barnett

michael brown

jeremy bennett

letizia ceccarelli

peter berridge

dr jonathan coulston

christian biggi

dr paul croft

an experienced archaeologist. He currently manages the The International Centre for the Study of Herculaneum, at the British School of Rome.

is an expert in Cypriot prehistory who lives and works on the island, managing the Lemba Archaeological Centre. He has many contacts with local archaeologists.

dr edward bispham

francois desset

is an archaeologist and Honorary Lecturer at the University of East Anglia. He specialises in Viking towns on the North Sea and has excavated widely.

is a global expert in prehistoric rock art. He has authored many books and discovered the UK’s only confirmed example of Palaeolithic cave art.

is an Honorary Fellow at Edinburgh University and specialist in rock art. She has immense passion for her subject and has worked in Europe, Africa and the UK.

is a British archaeologist. He is currently studying for his PhD examining Maltese agricultural terraces at Cambridge University.

is a researcher and museum archaeologist. He has a wealth of experience, from major research at Stonehenge to being Head of Colchester Museums’ Service.

is a Classical historian and Associate Professor in Ancient History at Oxford University. His research crosses the divide between archaeology and history. 8

“W

is an archaeological scientist specialising in the analysis of materials. She has worked on field schools in Pompeii and Portus and has excavated in the UK.

has been conducting research in Cambodia since 2009. Along with fellow guide Dr Damian Evans, he is a member of the international Greater Angkor project.

is a highly experienced archaeologist and regular broadcaster. He previously worked in the management of the MOD’s historic landscapes.

is a lecturer on ancient religion and funerary rituals at the University of Cambridge. She specialises in religious architecture and Etruscan material culture.

is Lecturer in Archaeology and Ancient History at St. Andrews University. He is a Roman specialist with a particular interest in the City of Rome.

is a French archaeologist specialising in Near Eastern Archaeology. He obtained his Phd from the Sorbonne. He speaks fluent Persian and English.

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sophy downes

deborah hodson

david drew

dr iain morley

mark driessen

nicholas jackson

dr neil faulkner

nicholas james

dr andrew fear

dr gai jorayev

rosetta ferrari

prof tony king

lucia gahlin

dr steve lekson

oliver gilkes

dr fernando lopez sanchez

dr christina hatzimichael whitley

dr john mcnabb

is Head of Engagement and Learning at the National Museum of the Royal Navy, having previously studied the archaeology of the Roman Empire.

is an archaeologist whose research interests combine two worlds, in particular the interaction of the classical and Hellenic west and Persian east.

is a lecturer at the University of Oxford, where he teaches human evolution and Paleolithic archaeology. He has excavated in Britain, Libya and much of Europe.

is a writer, archaeologist and broadcaster specialising in ancient Latin America. He studied at Oxford and UCL and has led numerous tours to Mexico and Peru.

is an archaeologist with several strings to his bow: he is a specialist in both the history of Berlin (where he lives) and the archaeology of the Middle East.

is a lecturer and researcher at Leiden University. His expertise spans the archaeology of Jordan, the Netherlands and the imperial Roman provinces.

is a Research Fellow at Bristol University. A specialist in military history and Roman archaeology, he is the author of works including Rome - Empire of the Eagles.

has worked on the archaeology of American Indians for over 35 years. He is the author of “Aztecs & Maya”; and a veteran leader of tours in Latin America.

is a researcher at the Archaeological Institute, UCL. He is Deputy Director of the Ancient Merv Project, investigating every aspect of Merv’s Silk Road history.

is a lecturer in ancient history at the University of Manchester. He specialises in Roman and Visigothic Spain, and has a sneaking interest in the Peninsular Wars...

lived in Italy for many years and speaks Italian. She has a great interest in food and culture and is a member of the exclusive Italian Society of Cheese Tasters.

lectures in archaeology at the University of Winchester, specialising in animal remains. He has excavated extensively in Britain and abroad, including in Italy.

lectures in Egyptology for University College London, Bristol and Exeter. She has also worked at the archaeological site of Tell el-Amarna in Middle Egypt.

is Curator of Archaeology and Professor of Anthropology at the Museum of Natural History, University of Colorado. He has directed over 20 archaeological projects.

is one of the UK’s foremost experts on Albanian archaeology. A true Renaissance man, he also worked at the British School at Rome for many years.

studied history at the University of Zaragoza. He conducted post-doctoral research in Oxford University as member of the Wolfson College.

is a tutor in Greek Archaeology at the Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning. She specialises in Minoan Crete, and is co-director of the Praisos Excavation Project in Crete.

prof valerie higgins

is Chair of Arts and Humanities at the American University of Rome, where she teaches archaeology. She specialises in the study of human remains.

has been a Senior Lecturer in Palaeolithic Archaeology at Southampton University since 2010. He is heavily involved in projects in Tanzania and South Africa.

“O

ur guide was remarkable and made the tour a true learning experience as well as very enjoyable.” Guest in 2016

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EXPERT Guide Lecturers malcolm mcneill

jayson orton

dr alexander macgillivrary

carolyn perry

dr mary macleod rivett

claudia pinci

kelli ann malone

julian richards

dr oren margolis

terry richardson

dr eireann marshall

prof michael roaf

dr katya melamed

dr rita roussos

prof john mitchell

dr gillian shepherd

tony o’connor

john shepherd

is a lecturer for SOAS, University of London. He has also worked at the British Museum and lectured for Asia House, Christies, and the V&A.

is a specialist in Minoan Crete. He worked at Knossos for over 20 years and now lives just outside Athens. He has excavated at Sparta, Paros, Kythno as well as on Crete.

is Lecturer in Archaeology at the University of the Highlands and Islands. She is a Viking and Norse Period specialist, and lives in the Hebrides.

is an archaeologist and lecturer in Irish History and Archaeology. She has over 20 years experience in the heritage and tourism industry.

is a historian of the Italian Renaissance. Oren’s research has taken him to a number of Italian cities, including Florence, Venice, Naples, and Rome.

was raised in a 15th century villa in Vicenza, so was born to history! She lectures and researches in Classical Civilisation in Italy and North Africa.

works at the Bulgarian National Institute of Archaeology and has directed many excavations, especially at Bulgaria’s many fascinating ‘lost’ Medieval churches.

is Professor of the History of Art in the Department of World Art and Museology at UEA. His specialisations include Italian history, and religious architecture.

has excavated widely in Britain, Italy and Africa, and is now a museum archaeologist. He is one of our most popular guides to Pompeii and Tunisia. 10

is an Honorary Research Associate at the University of Cape Town. He has also engaged in academic research with a focus on Later Stone Age archaeology.

is an archaeologist with extensive experience in the Mediterranean. She is currently a lecturer in Greek History and Mythology at the University of London.

is a lecturer and Roman archaeologist. She has done field work in Italy, at Pompeii and beyond, and has worked for a series of archaeological companies in Britain.

is a Wessex-based archaeologist and broadcaster with a passion for Stonehenge. He was the presenter of the long-running BBC2 series ‘Meet the Ancestors’.

has a background in Ancient History and Classical Civilisation and lived in Turkey. He is the author of the Rough Guides to Turkey and Istanbul.

is a specialist in the archaeology of Iran, Iraq and the Middle East from Neolithic to Islamic times. Over the last 40 years, he has led countless tours of the Middle East.

taught Archaeology and Art History at the American University of Athens. She has worked on many archaeological projects in Greece.

is Director of the Trendall Centre for Ancient Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe, Australia. She returns as often as she can to Italy, where her research is based.

is an archaeologist who has excavated all over Europe and the UK. He was a curator at the Museum of London for many years, setting up their Roman galleries.

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dr nick slope

dr nicholas vella

nick thorpe

tony wilmott

dr val turner

paul wordsworth

is an archaeologist with an incredible depth and breadth of knowledge, from prehistory in the Near East, to uncovering remains of Nelson’s sailors in Egypt...

is a senior lecturer in archaeology at the University of Winchester. He has published books and articles on prehistoric Wessex, Britain and Europe.

has been Shetland’s Regional Archaeologist since the post was created in 1986. She has managed large-scale excavation projects all across Scotland.

is Head of Classics and Archaeology at the University of Malta. He is the author of many works and papers on the archaeology of the ancient Mediterranean.

is a Senior Archaeologist with English Heritage. He has directed numerous excavations and was Current Archaeology Archaeologist of the Year in 2012.

is a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Oxford’s Faculty of Oriental Studies. His research interests include early Islamic and landscape archaeology.

your favourite Guide Lecturers From Pompeii with the archaeologists who are currently excavating there, to Crete with the man who ‘wrote the book’ on the great site of Knossos... Our tours are conceived, planned and led by articulate experts: archaeologists, historians, writers and broadcasters. Drawing on the ancient sites we visit, our Guide Lecturers are able to build up a vivid picture of life in the past with knowledge, good humour and skill. Here are some of the Guide Lecturers you rated highest in 2016:

9.9/10

10/10

9.9/10

dr denise allen

dr andy fear

john shepherd

Join Denise Allen in Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania (page. 96), and in Relaxed Provence (page. 50)

Join Andy Fear during our Romans, Visigoths & Viziers tour (page. 168), and in Roman Lusitania (page. 170)

Join John Shepherd during our Relaxed Split tour (page. 36), and in Classical Sicily (page. 106)

“A

ndante takes care of all the practical details and leaves me free to learn, explore and enjoy. The sites were visited were wonderful and there was a great variety, some small and out of the way and others large and well known, and all made accessible and interesting by our archaeologist and local guides.” Guest in 2016

“I

t was amazing getting a glimpse into the minds of our ancestors through their incredibly ancient art in caves and rock shelters, and through the artefacts discovered there. The whole experience was brought to life by our guide’s explanations.” Guest in 2016

“W

e joined the tour because of its unique itinerary and connection with past and current archaeological research. We totally loved visiting remote sites of historical significance, which we would’ve never visited on our own. Our guide was excellent and had a great sense of humor! ” Guest in 2016

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tours by country ALBANIA Land of the Eagles................................. 16 Albania, Montenegro & Kosovo...... 18

EGYPT Land of the Pharoahs............................ 42

Via Egnatia............................................. 20

FRANCE

AUSTRIA & HUNGARY

Côte d’Azur | Via Julia........................... 46

The Danube........................................ 22

BULGARIA

Pyrenees Rock Art.................................48 Relaxed Provence..........................50

Thracian Treasures................................ 24

Vintage Provence...................................52

CAMBODIA & LAOS

Dordogne Prehistoric Cave Art...........54

Cambodia & Laos.............................. 26

CENTRAL AMERICA Nicaragua & Costa Rica.............. 28

CHILE

Romans on the Rhône.......................56 Brittany | Carnac & Beyond.................58 Languedoc..............................................60 Hidden Paris.......................................62

Chile & Easter Island............................ 30

GERMANY

CHINA

Roman Germany...................................64

Beyond the Great Wall.......................... 32

The North: Road to Salamis............. 40

Hidden Berlin.....................................66

CROATIA

GREECE

Dalmatia & Dubrovnik......................... 34

The Peloponnese.................................... 70

Relaxed Split....................................... 36

Thessaloniki............................................ 72

CYPRUS

Crete & Santorini................................... 74

The South................................................ 38

Wild Thrace............................................ 76

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Athens & the Glories of Pericles...... 78

Rome with the Sistine Chapel............114

The Cyclades Gulet Tour................... 80

Renaissance Villas...............................116

Athens to Istanbul.............................. 82

Latium | The Roman Rich..................118

Crete Revisited................................... 84

Samnites | Enemies of Rome..............120

GUATEMALA Guatemala, Belize & Honduras........... 86

HOLLAND Hidden Amsterdam................. 88

Apulia | Food & Archaeology........122 The Ice Man & His World...................124 Relaxed Tuscany...........................126 Pompeii & Amalfi................................128

IRAN

Basilicata & Calabria...........................130

Iran | Kings, Shahs & Gardens............. 90

The Etruscans.......................................132

ISRAEL & PALESTINE

Apulia....................................................134

Israel & Palestine................................... 92

Relaxed Siracusa..............................136

ITALY

Sicily | The Wine of the Gods.............138

Pompeii & Herculaneum...................... 96

Umbria..................................................140

Hidden Rome...................................100

Ravenna & Aquileia............................142

Ancient Wonders of Sicily..............102

Turin Festive Food...............................144

Hidden Venice..................................104

Ravenna at Christmas.........................146

Classical Sicily......................................106

Festive Food in Bologna.....................148

Hidden Florence & Siena............108

Venice at New Year..............................150

Meet The Romans................................110

new for 2017 hidden cities relaxed breaks

Relaxed Capri...............................112

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tours by country JORDAN

Barcelona at New Year.....................178

Petra & Desert Fortresses............. 152

SWEDEN

KAZAKHSTAN

Meet the Vikings..................................180

Kazakhstan................................. 154

MALTA Malta & Gozo................................. 156

Sweden & Norway | Rock Art............182

TANZANIA Tanzania & Zanzibar.......................184

MEXICO

TURKEY

Mexico Revisited..................................158

The Aegean Coast of Turkey..............186

NAMIBIA

Anatolia & Cappadocia.......................188

Rock Art in the Namibian Wild........160

PERU

Kingdom of the Picts...................... 190

Northern Peru......................................162

Orkney & Shetland............................. 192

Peru & the Nazca Lines.......................164

Over the Sea to Skye....................... 194

SOUTH AFRICA The Western Cape............................166

Wessex Weekend................................ 196 Romans in London & Paris........... 198

SPAIN & PORTUGAL

USA

Romans, Visigoths & Viziers..............168

Native American Pueblos............ 200

Roman Lusitania..................................170

UZBEKISTAN

Rock Art of Altamira..........................172

The Silk Road...................................... 202

Phoenicians in Spain.......................174 Foz CÃ´a | Rock Art of Portugal.........176

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different ways to explore There’s more than one way to enjoy the ancient world. Everyone is different — that’s why we offer three different ways to travel:

TRAVELS IN ARCHAEOLOGY

HIDDEN CITIES

RELAXED BREAKS

Our classic tours. Take your pick from more than 100 allinclusive journeys into the distant past, and join us as we push the boundaries of cultural travel, visiting sites often out of reach of mainstream tourism. Each of our tours is accompanied by an Expert Guide, and features special access across the ancient world.

Unique, intimate, and very privileged introductions to the secret history of Europe’s great cities. Travel in small groups (max 16 guests), visit exclusive sites, enjoy Michelin-starred meals, and stay in luxurious hotels. Experience a perfect mix of luxury and culture, and include special access to fascinating sites.

Very civilised explorations of the ancient world — free time, one hotel, and all meals included. Our Relaxed Breaks are real holidays, introduced by Expert Guides, with more time for you to digest the sites and stories. Between discovering historic treasures, why not take in some local culture or spectacular landscapes?

• Holidays everyone can enjoy -

• Receive Special Access to an

• Cultural excursions to wineries,

• Receive Special Access on every

• Enjoy Michelin-starred meals

• Plenty of free time to explore at

• Travel with an Expert Guide

all you need is an inquiring mind one of our tours

Lecturer throughout the tour

exclusive selection of sites

and stay in luxurious hotels

Lecturer throughout the tour

private views and boat trips your own pace

Lecturer throughout the tour

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ALBANIA Land of The Eagles A

lbania is like no other country in Europe – still very much off the mainstream tourist trail. This is a place where pristine ruins still stand in splendid isolation. In Classical times, the Greeks and Romans built cities overlooking the sparkling waters of the Ionian sea; centuries later, Byzantine Christians and Ottoman Turks fought over dramatic mountain strongholds. Oliver Gilkes has directed excavations in Albania for over 20 years. He offers his encyclopedic knowledge of Albanian archaeology and culture - and is able to secure privileged access to sites. Discover Albania’s past and present, from Illyrian strongholds and Greek colonies to communist bunkers.

Fri 21st – Sat 29th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes 9 days £2,250 (sgl supp £195; without flights £1,945)

• Two thousand years of untouched archaeological heritage – from Classical cities to Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques

• Special access to the Tirana Archaeological Museum and Zekate House, Ottoman Mansion in Gjirokastra, high in the mountains

• Includes a full day at the World Heritage Site of Butrint, where Guide Lecturer Oliver Gilkes directed excavations for many years

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Tirana and drive to our hotel in the heart of the city. Day Two We begin with a full day in Albania’s lively capital, Tirana. We visit the National Historical Museum, the early 19th century Ethem Bey Mosque, and the National Gallery. After lunch, we continue to the Archaeological Museum, home to a vast collection and opened especially for our group. Day Three We drive to Apollonia, founded by the Corinthians in 588 BC, one of the largest ancient cities on the Adriatic. Today the excavations lie romantically surrounded by olive and oak trees with grassy banks hinting at what is still buried. This afternoon we drive along the beautiful Ionian coast, skirting the

The mountain stronghold of Gijirokastra. 16

‘Mountains of Thunder’ before we reach our hotel at Saranda this evening. Day Four We spend the day at Butrint, Albania’s best-known site. Guide Lecturer Oliver Gilkes has directed excavations at Butrint for many years. It is one of the most striking archaeological sites in the Mediterranean: a breathtaking setting on the shores of the Ionian Sea, within sight of the island of Corfu. Walking the site, we chart Butrint’s rise and fall through the centuries - from the Bronze Age to the Napoleonic Wars. Day Five We travel over the mountains to the town of Gjirokastra, a mountain stronghold, dramatically set amidst the limestone peaks. Here we visit the medieval fortress. We enjoy special access to the late Ottoman mansion of the Zekate House, one of the grandest examples of its kind. Day Six We continue north through the rugged and changing landscape to the ruins of the remote city of Byllis. According to legend, the city was founded by warriors led by the son of Achilles, returning from the Trojan wars. Archaeologists have yet to find evidence of Homeric heroes but have uncovered a Hellenistic era stadium,

Ali Pasha of Tepelena, reclining in his boat amongst the reeds.

theatre and fortifications. We continue to Berat this evening. Day Seven Today, we shift from Classical to Medieval times in the attractive town of Berat. The lower city along the riverside was the preserve of the Muslim inhabitants, while by agreement the Christians held the citadel. There are both Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques to visit, as well as the Onufri Museum. Day Eight We drive to Durres, Albania’s chief port and the starting point of the Via Egnatia. Here, we visit the 2nd century amphitheatre, the largest in the Balkans, as well as sections of the mighty 5th century walls. This afternoon we continue to Kruja, the last bastion of Christianity against the Ottoman Turks and now an interesting town set in beautiful countryside. We will visit the Skanderbeg Museum and wander through the Ottoman bazaar. Day Nine We transfer to Tirana airport for our morning flight home or onward journeys.

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Albania - Land Of the Eagles ALBANIA Kruja

What was once a thriving Greek — later Roman — settlement is now the archaeological site of Butrint, in Albania’s Vlorë County.

“H

is knowledge and love of Albania are what made this trip really special.” Guest describing Oliver Gilkes

GUIDE LECTURER

Durres

Apollonia

Tirana

Berat Byllis

Gjirokastra Saranda Butrint

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights London to Tirana Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Hotels 3 nights in a 4* hotel in Tirana 2 nights in a comfortable hotel in the seaside town of Saranda 1 night in Gjirokastra with panoramic views from the restaurant and bar

Oliver Gilkes has worked as a field and museum archaeologist in the UK, Italy, Albania and Libya. He currently works for Andante Travels in the archaeology department, designing new tours all over the world. Oliver previously worked at the World Heritage Site of Butrint and the evocative medieval city of Gijrokastra.

already travelled to albania with oliver? He is also leading tours to... Rome....................................... p.114 Renaissance Villas.................. p.116 Samnites|Enemies of Rome.... p.120

2 nights in 2 charming hotels in Berat

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: ALB17A

ALBANIA, Montenegro & Kosovo T

ravel from the shores of the Adriatic high up into the Albanian mountains, through soaring Montenegro, and on into the plains of Kosovo. Journey through ancient coastal cities, attractive medieval towns, and wild landscapes, to discover Ottoman mosques jostling for space along narrow streets. Join us as we trace the many civilisations who have left their mark on these lands: from Cadmus, the founder of Thebes, through Illyrians, Romans, Ottomans, the indefatigable Albanians, and more.

Thu 28th Sep – Fri 6th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes 9 days £2,345 (sgl supp £195; without flights £1,995)

This region hosts a swathe of little-known archaeological sites that will delight even the worldliest of travellers; whilst the abundant natural beauty will capture your imagination, and linger in memory long after you return home.

• Explore the excavations of the Roman city of Ulpiana; and visit the former stronghold of the Bushatli Pashas – Shkodra

• Admire the beautiful Adriatic coast and the sublime Bay of Kotor; and enjoy a spectacular voyage along the valley of the Black Drin

• Receive special access to Rozafa Castle which sits imposingly on a rocky hill in Shkodra

ITINER ARY Day One Upon arrival in Tirana, we transfer to our hotel in Shkodra. Day Two We explore Shkodra, one of Europe’s oldest cities. We begin with a special visit to one of Albania’s largest castles, a place of legend: Rozafa Castle. From its imposing position upon a rocky hill, we are treated to stunning views. We cross the border and drive to Budva in Montenegro. Day Three We explore Budva and its neighbour Kotor today. Budva was founded by Cadmus, who also founded Thebes. Medieval Kotor lies on its own beautiful bay. We continue to Cetinje, the old royal capital of King Nicola.

Founded in the 15th century, it became the centre of Montenegrin life and both a cradle of culture and an Orthodox religious centre. Day Four We drive to ancient Illyrian Doclea, the old Roman capital of Prevalitana. We continue into the mountains to Moraca, and its famous Serbian Orthodox monastery. One of the best known medieval monuments of Montenegro, it was founded by Stefan Vukanović, of the Nemanjić dynasty in 1252. Day Five Today we descend into the plains of Kosovo, visiting, en-route, Peja the centre of the Serbian Orthodox Patriarchate and its 13th century church. We travel on to Viskoi Decan monastery with superb examples of a 14th century church and frescoes. On to Prizren. Day Six A visit to the Shiroku tumuli, the burial places of Iron Age Illyrians and their Bronze Age predecessors. On to Ulpiana, the focus of the Roman province of Dardania. According to the chronicle and writings of Marcelino, a devastating earthquake destroyed several towns in Dardania in 518 AD. The city of Ulpiana suffered extensive damage, but was successfully rebuilt by Emperor Justinian. Our final visit today is to Prishtina to see the National Museum.

The Serbian Orthodox Morača Monastery, nestled in the valley of Kolašin’s Morača River.

Day Seven We spend the morning exploring Prizren, located on the slopes of the Šar Mountains. The Roman town was formerly known as Theranda and was mentioned in Ptolemy’s Geography in the 2nd century AD. We drive on to Koman in Albania, to catch the ferry which takes us along the spectacular gorge of the Black Drin river to Fierze. We return to Shkodra this afternoon. Day Eight We drive south to Lezhe to visit the remains of ancient Lissus, and the fortress and grave of Skanderbeg, and then an afternoon visit to Kruja where we stay overnight. Day Nine We transfer to the airport for our flight home.

The “Budva Dancer” presides over the town’s bay. 18

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Albania - Montenegro & Kosovo ALBANIA

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

A view across the picturesque old town and bay of Kotor, Montenegro, including Our Lady of Health Church.

Prishtina

Kolasin Montenegro

Desan / Peja

Kotor Budva

“L

and of Albania! Let me bend mine eyes on thee, thou rugged nurse of savage men.” Lord Byron

Fierza

Prizren kosovo

Koman

Shkodra

Lezhe Albania Krujë Tirana

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Tirana Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 2 nights in a traditionally designed hotel in Shkodra 2 nights in a luxurious hotel set on the seaside in Budva 2 nights in a hotel overlooking the Lumbardhi river in Prizren 1 night in a beautifully designed spa hotel in Kolašin 1 night in a scenically situated hotel in Kruja

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

Conflict

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Tour Code: AKM17A

VIA EGNATIA

Across the Balkans

journey through time and civilisations, across the dramatic landscapes of southeast Europe. Albania, Macedonia and the Balkans represent one vast patchwork of cultures and civilisations. Our tour takes in the tombs and treasures of Philip of Macedon, the late-imperial glories of Thessaloniki and the beautiful Medieval churches on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Divided by mountains, the Balkans are united by roads which kept the disparate states and Empires in contact, and conflict. The greatest of these was the Via Egnatia, initially a series of traditional tracks used by the Romans to speed their conquest of Illyria and Macedonia and formalised as the great highway crossing mountain, river and marsh.

Sun 8th – Mon 16th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes 9 days £2,495 (sgl supp £195; without flights £2,095)

• The remarkable World Heritage Site of Lake Ohrid, dotted with Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman sites

• View the Tomb and golden treasures of King Philip of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great

• Receive special entry to normally closed Jeni Mosque, known for its exquisite decorative ornaments and stalactites

ITINER ARY Day One Fly to Tirana and drive to our hotel. Day Two We begin our journey at Durrës, the principal terminus of the Via Egnatia, Albania’s largest and most bustling seaport with substantial monuments. We visit the circular Forum of Anastasius where the northern branch of the Via Egnatia began. We continue to Apollonia, a great Corinthian Greek colony, and the starting point of the Via Egnatia’s southern branch. Day Three We travel to Tirana, capital of Albania. We see the Tirana mosaic, all that remains of a late Roman villa in the suburbs of the city. We then explore the National Historical Museum. Afterwards, we continue along the Krabbe Pass to Elbasan, or ancient Scampis as it was once known. We view the fine late Roman and Ottoman walls that line the Via Egnatia here.

One of the Stations of the Cross from St. Clement, Ohrid.

Day Four We enjoy a day in wonderful Ohrid. The ancient city boasts a Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman past with impressive monuments from each era. We explore the late Byzantine shrine of St. Clement and the churches of St. Panteleimon and St. Sofia and the 9th century fortress of Tsar Samuel which dominates the city. We stroll to St. Jovan Kaneo, romantically overlooking the beautfiul Lake Ohrid. Day Five We make our way to the Museum on the Water at ‘the Bay of Bones’ - a partial reconstruction of a prehistoric village. We continue to Lake Prespa and St. Naum, before travelling over the spectacular mountains to Korbinovo by Lake Ohrid. We walk through the wooded landscape to the church of St George, with its fresco cycle of the time of the Commeni emperors and a resurgent Byzantium. Day Six We start the day in Heraklea Lyncestis. A city built by Philip II of Macedon, with remains of fine Roman and Byzantine buildings and impressive mosaics. We explore Bitola, which retains much of its late Ottoman atmosphere, thanks to its very fine 15th century mosques.

Emperor Galerius vanquishes his foes: details from the arch of Galerius.

Day Seven We visit the ancient site and thundering waterfalls in Edessa, which made the city famous in antiquity. We also find the Ottoman bridge that carried the Via Egnatia over the river. In ancient Aigai, the traditional Macedonian capital, we discover the great burial mound which covered the tombs of Macedonian royalty. This was one of the richest finds of grave goods in Europe. Day Eight We explore Thessaloniki, the original terminus of the Via Egnatia. We visit the Agora and church of St. Demetrius and the remains of the palace complex of Galerius, the Rotonda, his intended mausoleum, and the great arch over the Via Egnatia. We visit the recently redisplayed and very fine Archaeological Museum and the adjacent Byzantine Museum. Day Nine We return home from Thessaloniki.

We visit the normally closed Jeni Mosque, before visiting the fine Bitola museum, established in an old Turkish military college.

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Via Egnatia - Across the Balkans ALBANIA

GUIDE LECTURER

The bouleuterion of Apollonia, ancient city of Illyria, near the Adriatic shore. Ohrid Durrës

“H

ow highly should we honour the Macedonians, who for the greater part of their lives never cease from fighting with the barbarians for the sake of the security of Greece?” Polybius

Tirana Elbasan

Bitola Korbinovo Lake Prespa

Apollonia

Edessa

Thessaloniki Aigai

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Tirana; Thessaloniki to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 2 nights in a comfortable hotel on a beach outside Durres 2 nights in a lake-side hotel in Ohrid overlooking the old city 1 night in a central hotel in Bitola 1 night in a friendly and well-located hotel on the outskirts of Edessa 2 nights in a 5* hotel in Thessaloniki with pool

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

see more countries in the balkans... You may also be interested in: Albania|Land of the Eagles...... p.16 Bulgaria|Thracian Treasures.... p.24 Dalmatia & Dubrovnik............. p.34

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: VIE17A

AUSTRIA & HUNGARY K

nown as the lifeblood of Europe, the Danube basin was the cradle of some highly-advanced early human cultures, such as the Neolithic and Chalcolithic cultures of the Vinča and Vučedol. The mighty river rises in the Black Forest mountains of western Germany and flows through to the Black Sea – passing through ten countries on its way. Travel with us from Budapest to Vienna, and explore what was once described by Napoleon as ‘the king of Europe’s rivers’. Discover the Danube of prehistory, Roman occupation, early Christian era and the Ottoman Empire at an unforgettable array of sites. Marvellous oldworld capitals, ornate cathedrals and picturesque villages await...

The Danube

Tue 19th – Tue 26th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Kelli Ann Malone 8 days £2,395 (sgl supp £235; without flights £2,165)

• Take a boat ride along the Danube from Budapest to Vienna • Discover astounding reconstructions of Neolithic and Bronze Age houses at Százhalombatta Archaeological Park

• Examine the impressive ruins of Carnuntum’s Roman military camp • Explore Buda Castle, which has transformed many times over the centuries ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Budapest and transfer to our hotel. Day Two Today we receive an introduction to the Danube at the Hungarian National Museum. The museum’s impressive garden has itself played host to many events, including voting reforms, strike meetings, funeral gatherings, and commemorations. Walking along the Danube, we explore the oldest parts of Budapest, including Buda Castle and its courts and courtyards. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was built by King Béla IV of Hungary between 1247 and 1265. Day Three We travel to Százhalombatta this morning to study the prehistory of the area, including the Matrica Museum.

We go behind-the-scenes at the museum, and receive a specially arranged talk from the director, Magdi Vizce. After lunch we visit the six-hectare Archaeological Park, which is part of the museum. The remains of a tumulus graveyard are preserved here. Day Four This morning we discover the Roman Danube. We begin at the ruined ancient city of Aquincum, where it is believed that Marcus Aurelius wrote his book ‘Meditations’. We explore the little riverside town of Szentendre this afternoon - stopping at the openair Szentendre Skanzen Folklore Museum. Walking around the museum ‘villages’ you can get a sense of typical buildings of seven Hungarian regions: from the Great Plains to the Balaton Uplands. Day Five We travel by boat from Budapest to Vienna – a city with an intellectual legacy shaped by residents including Mozart, Beethoven and Sigmund Freud. Enjoy the opportunity to see the banks of the Danube drift by. Travelling along Europe’s secondlongest and entirely picturesque river, is an unarguably romantic affair.

The former Roman town of Aquincum. 22

Divine sculptural details at the entrance to the Budapest History Museum.

expansive selection of exhibitions can be found on display – from the history of the city to art, fashion and modern culture, from the earliest settlements to the present day. We continue to the excellent Carnuntum Archaeological Park this afternoon, which includes the Carnuntum museum, the amphitheatre and the Heidentor — a huge 4th century AD triumphal monument. Day Seven We visit the former imperial summer residence of Schloss Schönbrunn. It even has its own Roman ruins within its grounds. We also visit the Benedictine Melk Abbey, which sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube river. Enjoy some free time during your final afternoon on tour. Day Eight We pay a final visit to the Imperial Palace this morning. We return home this afternoon.

Day Six Our first morning in beautiful Vienna, ‘the city of dreams’. We enjoy a tour of the Wien Museum, where an

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A panoramic view of the Danube snaking through the Hungarian capital of Budapest, from nearby Gellert Hill.

Vienna Carnuntum

GUIDE LECTURER

Slovakia Stift Melk

Szentendre

“W

hen you set out to take Vienna, take Vienna.” Napoléon Bonaparte

Aquincum Budapest

Austria

Százhalombatta

Hungary

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Vienna Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 4 nights in an upscale 4* hotel in Budapest, with warm, elegant rooms, and a central location within easy reach of downtown and Buda Castle 3 nights in a 4* hotel in central Vienna, with polished, comfortably decorated rooms, and situated just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Prehistory

Romans

Medieval

Austria & Hungary - The Danube AUSTRIA & HUNGARY

NEW

Dr Kelli Ann is an archaeologist and anthropologist. She is also a lecturer in Irish History and Archaeology at Champlain College Dublin. Kelli gained her PHD from the University of Massachusetts. She has over 20 years experience in the heritage and tourism industry.

interested in other central european tours? You may also be interested in: Dalmatia and Dubrovnik.......... p.34 Relaxed Split............................. p.36 Roman Germany....................... p.64

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: DAN17A

BULGARIA Thracian Treasures B

ulgaria is, in archaeological terms, one of the richest countries in Europe. The previous ten years have been, almost literally, a golden age for Bulgarian archaeology, with spectacular sites and priceless finds coming to light. Hidden in the hills and forests are some of Europe’s oldest Neolithic settlements, Thracian tombs, replete with grave goods and exuberantly painted Medieval churches. At the edge of Europe, in ancient times, Bulgaria was located at the apex of great civilisations. From the south and west Philip of Macedon and Roman Emperor Trajan founded cities here. From the east came Byzantine traders and Ottoman raiders. Dr Katya Melamed introduces the many ages of Bulgaria, from the Black Sea to the Rila Mountains, from the Neolithic to the Iron Curtain.

Sat 7th – Wed 18th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Katya Melamed 12 days £2,595 (sgl supp £245; without flights £2,345)

• Spectacularly varied history and landscapes introduced by a Bulgarian archaeologist who has excavated all over the country

• From the Neolithic houses of Stara Zagora, through Roman Plovdiv, to the exuberantly painted churches high in the Rila mountains

• Visits to no fewer than six UNESCO World Heritage Sites ITINER ARY Day One Arrive in Sofia and transfer to Plovdiv. Day Two We spend our first day on foot exploring the sites of Plovdiv, founded by Philip of Macedon. Intense Roman activity on this site means that little is left of the early city, but a great deal of the Roman one includes the forum, stadium, fortress and amphitheatre. Day Three Drive north to the sleepy village of Hisarya, famed for its hot water mineral spring. We continue to ‘Valley of the Thracian Kings’ after pausing for a picnic at the site of Kazanlak Mound. We hope once again for special permission to enter the Kazanlak tomb, which we have obtained on all our previous tours of Bulgaria. The tomb is decorated with beautiful frescoes.

Day Four We visit the tomb of Aleksandrovo, dating from the 4th century BC. Continue this afternoon to Stara Zagora. This seemingly ordinary Bulgarian town hides extraordinary Neolithic houses under the city streets. The dwellings are complete with shelves, pots and hearths. Day Five We begin the day at the huge settlement mound of Karanovo. This ‘tell’ represents successive phases of occupation from the 6th to the 2nd millennium BC. We then drive east to Nessebar on the Black Sea Coast. Founded by the Thracians, the town later became a thriving Greek trading colony. We visit the old town to view churches and walls. Continue to Varna. Day Six We spend the morning in the superb History Museum in Varna housing intricately worked gold found at nearby Copper Age burial sites. After lunch we explore this coastal city including the Roman Baths and Marine Garden. Day Seven Today, we visit the majestic Madara Horseman rock relief. Dating from the 8th century AD, the horseman rides triumphant, a vanquished lion at his feet. We continue to the Sveshtari Thracian tomb. Here, multi-coloured reliefs depict surreal half human, half plant-like figures.

Traditional village at Etar. 24

Extraordinary chariot burial at Karanovo.

Day Eight We spend all day in Veliko Tarnovo, capital of the Medieval Bulgarian tsars. The town is dramatically situated on a gorge over the river. We explore the large Medieval castle dominating the city, and some early monasteries. Day Nine We drive to the ancient site of Nicopolis ad Istrum. A thriving Roman colony, the town was abandoned in the 5th century AD and eventually replaced by a much more modest Byzantine settlement. We continue to the preserved ‘museum villages’ of Arbanassi and Etar. Day Ten We view the collections of the National Museum of History in Sofia before visiting Boyana Church with its remarkable 13th century frescoes. We continue along the walls of ancient Serdica (Sofia), to see St George’s Rotunda and St Sofia Basilica. Day Eleven We head into the beautiful foothills of the Rila mountains, to visit Rila Monastery. This iconic (in the literal sense!) masterpiece is one of Bulgaria’s most famous and most beautiful sites. Day Twelve We visit Sofia’s National Institute of Archaeology before our flight home.

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Bulgaria - Thracian Treasures BULGARIA

GUIDE LECTURER

The intricate painted ceilings of the Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila.

Nicopolis ad Istrum Veliko Tarnovo Sofia

Madara Arbanassi

Kazanlak

Hisarya Plovdiv

Stara Zagora

Dr Katya Melamed recently retired from the Bulgarian Institute of Archaeology, but still directs excavations. She has published widely in English and Bulgarian, specialises in the Medieval period and is particularly interested in the continuity of burial practices. Katya has led many tours for Andante.

Varna

Karanovo

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Sofia Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 3 nights in a modern hotel near the Maritsa River in Plovdiv 1 night in a hotel in central Stara Zagora with views of the Black Sea 2 nights in a central hotel with good views and modern rooms in Varna 2 nights in a comfortable, rustic hotel in Veliko Tarnovo 3 nights in a 4* hotel in central Sofia

Cultural

Prehistory

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

would you like to see more historic churches? You may also be interested in Dalmatia & Dubrovnik............p.34 Cyprus|The South...................p.38 The Via Julia|Côte d’Azur........p.46 Ravenna & Aquileia.................p.142

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: BUL17A

CAMBODIA & LAOS C

ambodia presents a thrilling balance of mysterious cities, deep forests, colonial grandeur. Archaeologically, the country is best know as the home of the vast and magnificent temple complex of Angkor Wat - a captivating testament to human ingenuity, and to the ravages of time. Of course Angkor isn’t our only highlight, many other temples and cities, deep in the forests are constantly being uncovered.

Tue 7th – Sun 19th Nov 2017 Guide Lecturer: David Brotherson 13 days £4,195 (sgl supp £585; without flights £3,495)

Laos is the perfect tour companion to Cambodia. Rolling mountains, remote villages, and saffron-robed monks await you. Discover authentic Asia at its best; and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in one incomparable itinerary, beginning in Laos and continuing in Cambodia.

• Discover Angkor Wat – the great legacy of the Khmer kings of Angkor • Explore Beng Melea – a 12th century temple that has been reclaimed by the Cambodian jungle

• Tour Ta Prohm – an atmospheric 13th century temple-monastery; and view the mysterious Plain of Jars that litter the landscape in Laos

ITINER ARY Day One - Two We fly from London to Laos, arriving in ‘land of a million elephants’ on the morning of Day Two. Day Three We visit Lao National Museum, which is housed in the old French Governor’s mansion and displays ancient as well as modern day exhibits. This is followed by a tour of Vientiane, capital of Laos since 1563, stopping at Wat Si Muang, a Buddhist temple. Day Four We fly to Xieng Khouang and visit Muang Khoun for Wat Phia Wat, an ancient Buddha formerly housed within a now-destroyed Laotian Buddhist temple, thought to have been built in 1322. The war-scarred Buddha statue is quite an arresting sight. Day Five Today we travel to Phonsavan to visit a megalithic landscape known as the Plain of Jars where thousands of giant stone jars of unknown origin are scattered around a vast area.

Carved stone faces at Angkor Wat. 26

Day Six We drive to Luang Prabang visiting the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre dedicated to the many ethnic groups of Laos, past and present. We view traditional handmade clothing and textiles, jewellery, handicraft and household tools, reconstructions of domestic scenes, as well as ritual and religious artefacts. Day Seven We walk through the Old Town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered to be the heart of Laotian culture. Discover the blending of two distinct cultural traditions here – a fusion of traditional architecture, Lao urban structures and 19th and 20th century European colonial design. Day Eight This morning we fly to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. On arrival we take in the city, visiting the official residence of King Sihamoni, the Royal Palace with its gilded roof and, nearby, the Silver Pagoda which houses the Baccarat crystal Buddha. Day Nine We begin the day at the National Museum of Cambodia. Located just north of the Royal Palace, the museum is housed in a striking terracotta structure, and has an inviting courtyard garden. The museum is home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture – discover a millennium of

The Buddhist temple of Wat Si Muang, Vientiane.

masterful Khmer design. We fly to Siem Riep this evening. Day Ten Today we visit Koh Ker, a 10th century Khmer city hidden in the forest and only recently opened to visitors. This afternoon we visit the Beng Mealea Temple complex, again amid the jungle, with massive tree roots snaking through the architecture. Day Eleven We spend the day at Angkor visiting the huge complex of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, built in the 12th century. We receive special access this morning at EFEO (French Institute of Asian Studies), and at the Angkor conservation project. We visit the Angkor National Museum with its fine archaeological collection in the afternoon. Day Twelve Today, we discover lesser-known temples including: Buddhist monastery Ta Prohm, held together by banyan and strangler fig roots, Ta Nei and Ta Keo. We explore the fortified city of Angkor Thom dominated by giant heads of the Buddha Day Thirteen Fly home from Siem Reap.

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Cambodia & Laos CAMBODIA & LAOS

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

Luang Prabang Laos

Magnificent temple complex at Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, covering over 1000 sq km.

Xieng Khoung Plain of Jars

Vientiane

Thailand

“O

ne of these temples—a rival to that of Solomon, and erected by some ancient Michelangelo—might take an honourable place beside our most beautiful buildings. It is grander than anything left to us by Greece or Rome.” Henri Mouhot, 19th century explorer of Angkor Wat

Siem Reap Angkor Wat

Beng Mealea Cambodia

Vietnam

Phnom Penh

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights London to Vientiane; Vientiane to Xieng Khouang; Luang Prabang to Phnom Penh; Phnom Penh to Siem Reap; Siem Reap to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach and river boat Meals - All meals included Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme and tips

Special Access

All Inclusive

Medieval

Hotels 2 nights in Vientiane 2 nights in Xieng Khouang 2 nights in Luang Prabang 1 night in Phnom Penh 4 nights in an upscale 4* boutique hotel in Siem Reap

David Brotherson is a PhD candidate with the Department of Archaeology at the University of Sydney. A member of the international Greater Angkor Project, he started fieldwork in Cambodia in 2010 and has lived there for five years. David’s research focuses on how populations deal with decline, using ceramics to identify changing settlement patterns over time.

interested in other asian tours? You may also be interested in: China|Beyond the Great Wall...p.32 Kazakhstan...............................p.154 Uzbekistan................................p.202

Eastern

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Tour Codes: LAO17B

NICARAGUA & COSTA RICA T

urquoise seas, magnificent Maya ruins, bustling markets and coffee farms, stratovolcanoes and heavenly cloud forests... Central America is an epicentre of discovery. A tapestry of cultures have left their mark on this fascinating land. Join us as we travel across three exciting regions. In Central America’s most underrated country, El Salvador, we find coffee plantations clinging to volcanoes, colourful Spanish colonial towns, and sublime national parks. In Nicaragua we are greeted by colonial architecture, and pristine forests that are at worst breathtaking. Finally, in Costa Rica we discover ancient pre-Columbian sites set on the jungle-rich slopes.

Mon 13th – Wed 29th Mar 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Nicholas James 17 days £5,375 (sgl supp £870; without flights £4,625)

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Joya de Cerén in El-Salvador • Discover the Ancient footprints of Acahualinca in Nicaragua • Travel to the ceremonial centre of the ancient Chorotega people, Zapatera • Enjoy special lectures by archaeologists, conservators and researchers, who will give unique insights into their work to protect local heritage

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to San Salvador, arriving in the afternoon. Day Two Today we explore San Salvador - the cathedral, Iglesia El Rosario, Museo Nacional Antropologia, and the Palacio Nacional. Day Three Drive to Cihuatan en route to Joya de Ceren and San Andres. Continue to Santa Ana, stopping in Parque Nacional Los Volcanes and Lago Coatepeque. Day Four Visit Chalchuapa and the archaeological site of Casa Blanca. Day Five This morning we fly to Managua and then tour the city.

Day Six Visit the Huellas de Acahualinca and the ruins of León Viejo, founded by Spanish conquistador Cordoba. It is the only colonial town in America to retain its original sixteenth-century layout. Day Seven Today we have free time in Granada, a picturesque colonial town. Day Eight Travel to Parque Nacional Archipelago Zapatera and enjoy a boat tour of Las Isletas, a calm, island-strewn lake with beautiful views of the volcano and impressive local houses. Day Nine We spend a whole day discovering Isla de Ometepe. Its hundreds of incredible petroglyphs and beautiful views inspire all who visit — including Mark Twain. Day Ten Today we travel across the border of Costa Rica to Monteverde, known for its biodiverse cloud-skimming forests. Day Eleven We explore Monteverde, home of the Arenal Volcano. In the afternoon, relax or take an optional nature excursion.

The Ujarras ruins in Paraiso de Cartago. 28

Day Twelve Drive to San Jose to visit the Jade and Gold Museums. The Jade Museum holds the largest collection of preColumbian jade anywhere in the world,

Crater lake at the summit of the Poas volcano, Costa Rica.

including carved pendants, vases and even jade-embedded teeth! Day Thirteen We visit Poas Volcano crater lake and Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo. Day Fourteen We travel to the Orosi Valley and Las Ruinas de Ujarrás before an afternoon visit to the Santiago Apóstol (St. James Apostle) Parish Ruins of Cartago, which according to legend are cursed. Day Fifteen We visit Las Mercedes archaeological site on the Caribbean slope of Costa Rica. We continue to the Guayabo National Monument. Still partly unexplored, the area contains ancient bridges and dwellings, and petroglyphs estimated to be 3,000 years old. Day Sixteen We fly home today — but not before visiting the San Jose Pre-Columbian Museum, which holds a substantial collection of over 1600 artifacts of preColumbian gold dating back to AD 500. Day Seventeen We arrive back in London.

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Nicaragua & Costa Rica CENTRAL AMERICA

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

Belize

The colourful, colonial buildings and ornate churches of Granada, Nicaragua.

Honduras

Tazumal El Salvador San Salvador

“V

oted one of your top 10 new tours in 2017!”

Nicaragua León Viejo Managua Arenal Costa Rica San Jose

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights London to San Salvador; San Salvador to Managua; San Jose to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

New World

Hotels 2 nights in San Salvador 2 nights in Santa Ana 1 night in Managua 1 night in Leon 3 nights in Granada 2 nights in Monteverde or Arenal 4 nights in San José

Medieval

Dr Nicholas James has worked on the archaeology of American Indians for more than 35 years and is author of “Aztecs & Maya”. He graduated from Oxford before teaching at Cambridge and then returning to Oxford. He is a consultant in management of historical resources, an avid exponent of extra-mural study, and a veteran leader of tours in Latin America.

already travelled here? You may be interested in: Chile & Easter Island................p.30 Mexico Revisited.....................p.158 Peru & the Nazca Lines..........p.164

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: CAG17A

CHILE And Easter Island This is an adventure indeed - traveling across the globe with an international expert to see some of the strangest rock art in the world in vast and remote landscapes. Doing so involves traveling down the coast of northern Chile and into the Atacama desert before flying over the Pacific to a tiny speck of land — the iconic Easter Island. We shall be discovering places seldom visited which our ancestors chose to decorate with huge earth pictures and complex rock art. Some of the sites we see are simply extraordinary - their gigantic scale makes us ask why and for whom such things were created, visible only from far away.

Mon 13th – Thu 30th Nov 2017 Mon 27th Mar – Thu 13th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Paul Bahn 18 days £6,650 (sgl supp £650; without flights £5,700)

• We enjoy a visit to rock art on Easter Island which is normally inaccessible to the public

• Extraordinary rock art amid the lunar-like landscapes of the Atacama Desert; and the giant imposing, enigmatic Moai statues on Easter Island

• Enjoy a memorable tour led by Paul Bahn, renowned expert on prehistoric rock art

ITINER ARY Day One & Two Fly overnight to Santiago, arriving in the afternoon of Day Two. Relax after the flight or enjoy an optional walk around colonial Santiago. Day Three Morning flight to Arica; here, we visit the Chinchorro mummies at San Miguel Museum, and Azapa Valley, home to some spectacular rock art. Day Four Journey through the Atacama desert, stopping at Chiza and Tiliviche to see human and llama geoglyphs. We continue to El Gigante del Atacama, the world’s largest prehistoric depiction of a human. Continue to Iquique. Day Five Sail from Iquique harbour, with the opportunity to spot sealions and penguins. We also visit the excellent museum. Free afternoon.

Day Six Drive to Cerros Pintados to view the geoglyphs which stretch for miles along the hills. Continue to San Pedro de Atacama, an oasis village in the heart of spectacular volcanic scenery. Day Seven Off-road to the petroglyphs at Yerbas Buenas before returning to San Pedro de Atacama, where we visit the Museo Gustavo Le Paige. Afternoon amongst the landscapes of the Valle de la Luna. Day Eight An exciting journey at altitude (10,000 ft) through remote landscapes (involving wading through a very shallow river) to Taira. Here we see some of the best rock art in the New World. Flight to Santiago. Day Nine To Vina del Mar to visit the Museo de Arqueologico e Historia Francisco Fonck for a foretaste of Easter Island archaeology. Afternoon walking tour of the town of Valparaiso, known for its vibrant colonial architecture. Day Ten Day in Santiago to visit the Museo Nacional de Historia Natural and Museo de Arte Precolombino, housing world-class antiquity collectionsantiquities. Fly to Easter Island.

An old church in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. 30

Day Eleven Discover our first moai at Ahu Tahai.

Dr Bahn explains the petroglyphs at the remote site of Yerbas Buenas.

Continue to the nearby Museo Antropologico Sebastian Englert. Day Twelve Visit Rano Raraku quarry, where unfinished moai still stand in situ, and Tongariki’s famous line of standing statues. On to Papa Vaka rock carvings. Day Thirteen Explore moai sites on the south coast: Ahu Vaihu Akahanga, Hanga Tetenga, Te Pito te Kura, Ahu Nau Nau. Afternoon to relax at Anakena Beach. Day Fourteen Visit the Puna Pau quarry, source of the red cylindrical stone top-knots found on some moai; continue to lava tunnels at Te Pahu and Aku Akivi. Day Fifteen Explore Ana Kaitangata ‘cannibal cave’. Continue to Rano Kau and Orongo ceremonial village. We see the offshore rock, Motu Island, used in annual competitions. Day Sixteen Free morning on Easter Island before an afternoon flight to Santiago. Day Seventeen A day for further visits or relaxation in Santiago before our flights home. We arrive back in the UK on Day Eighteen.

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Chile & Easter Island CHILE

SMALL GROUP

Arica

Row of Moai statues on the shores of Easter Island.

El Gigante del Atacama Iquique Calama

GUIDE LECTURER

Chiza Humberstone Taira

Valle de la Luna

San Pedro de Atacama

“R

apa Nui [Easter Island], bears witness to a unique cultural phenomenon. From the 10th century this society built shrines and erected enormous stone figures known as moai , which created an unrivalled cultural landscape that continues to fascinate.” UNESCO World Heritage Listing

Santiago

Dr Paul Bahn is the leading expert on prehistoric rock art world-wide, and is certainly one of our best-known archaeologists. Paul led the team which discovered the first Ice Age cave art in Britain in 2003. He is not only a leading academic but a great exponent of popular and accessible archaeology, and he has been leading tours for Andante Travels since 2000.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights London to Santiago via Madrid; Santiago to Arica; Calama to Santiago; return Santiago to Hanga Roa; Santiago to London via Madrid Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 5 nights in central Santiago 1 night in a beach hotel in Arica 2 nights in central Iquique 2 nights in San Pedro de Atacama 5 nights in a family-run hotel set in lovely gardens in Hanga Roa

Cultural

Small Group

Medieval

Eastern

Ahu Nau Nau

Ahu Te Pito Te Kura

Ahu Tepeu Te Pahu

Easter Island

Rano Raraku Ahu Hanga Tetenga Hanga Roa

Ahu Tongariki

Ahu Akahanga Ahu Vaihu

Tour Codes: Mon 13th – Thur 30th Nov (CHI17A) Mon 27th Mar – Thur 13th Apr (CHI17B)

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CHINA

Beyond the Great Wall

hina has a remarkable history, spanning back over 10,000 years and remnants of its glorious past can be seen at every turn. We journey from Beijing to Shanghai, through vast and varied landscapes and archaeology. From Buddhist temples, to the gargantuan monuments of imperial ambition, to lesser-known prehistoric settlements, this is the story of not one but many Chinas through the ages. Over 17 days, we put the great sites we see into their historical context. We see the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors and Ming Tombs not just as grand relics, but as products of the time, people and places that led to their creation.

Thu 14th – Sat 30th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Malcolm McNeill 17 days £4,750 (sgl supp £645; without flights £3,950)

• See some of China’s most famous sites in the company of a guide lecturer who will weave them into a narrative of China‘s history

• Come face to face with the famous Terracotta Warriors, discovered by local farmers in 1974

• Discover China’s remarkable prehistoric archaeology at sites such as Jinsha and Banpo, which tell the story of ordinary people in ancient China

ITINER ARY Day One & Two We fly overnight to Beijing and transfer to our hotel. Day Three Today we head to the Forbidden City to explore the Palace Museum. We touch on recent history at Tiananmen Square before continuing to the Temple of Heaven this afternoon. Day Four This morning we wander the lakes and gardens of the Summer Palace. On to to Fahai Temple, famed for its vivid frescoes from the Ming Dynasty. Day Five We explore the Tombs of the Ming Dynasty. This afternoon, we visit the Great Wall. The Wall dates back to the 2nd century BC, although it was extended by the Ming Emperors. Day Six We leave Beijing and fly to Luoyang. This is the traditional sacred centre of China. Excavations have uncovered

Carvings at Longmen Grottoes, commissioned by Empress Consort Wu Zetian of the Tang Dynasty.

ritual sites dating back to the Neolithic. Day Seven This morning, we visit the Longmen Grottoes, home to up to 100,000 Buddhist statues. After lunch we continue to the Shaolin Temple, where monks have practiced a distinct form of Buddhism for over 1,500 years. Day Eight We take a train ride to Xi’an, one of the oldest cities in China. We have free time this afternoon where you could visit the Great Mosque and Bazaar in the Islamic quarter or walk the city walls. Day Nine This morning we enjoy access to the 2,200-year-old Terracotta Army. The 8000 statues were crafted for Emperor Qin Shi Huang. We view the assembled ranks and other elements of the monumental tomb complex. After lunch we continue to Banpo Neolithic Village and Museum. Day Ten Our first stop is Han Jingdi Tomb to view its impressive terracotta figurines. On to pay our respects at Famensi Temple, home to relics of the Buddha.

A three thousand-year-old bronze bird in Chengdu’s Sanxingdui Museum.

Day Twelve Today we visit Sanxingdui site and Museum. We continue to Qingyang Palace, one of the oldest and largest Taoist temples. Day Thirteen & Fourteen We fly to Shanghai Suzhou. We visit Suzhou Museum and the lovely Garden of the Humble Administrator. We contemplate Nirvana at the Buddhist Lion Forest Garden this afternoon. Day Fifteen Today we reach Shanghai. After checking into our hotel we take a river boat along the Bund (quay) lined with 19th century trading houses. Day Sixteen We have special access to a collection of objects which reveal the more recent history of communist China at the Shanghai Propoganda Poster Art Centre. Day Seventeen We fly home from Shanghai.

Day Eleven We fly to Chengdu. After lunch, we explore the 3,000-year-old settlement at Jinsha. Excavations here have uncovered exquisite jade, ivory and gold artefacts.

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China - Beyond the Great Wall CHINA

GUIDE LECTURER

Beijing

The world-famous Terracotta Warriors at Xi’an.

China

“A

journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.” Chinese Proverb

Luoyang

Xi’an

Suzhou

Chengdu

Shanghai

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights London to Bejing, Shanghai to London Domestic Flights - Beijing to Luoyang, Xi’an to Chengdu, Chengdu to Shanghai Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 4 nights in classic Chinese courtyardstyle accommodation in Beijing 2 nights in a modern hotel in Luoyang 3 nights in a Luxury hotel in Xi’an 2 nights in a hotel in a traditional courtyard-style building in Chengdu 2 nights in a stylish hotel located in scenic western Suzhou 2 nights in a modern luxurious hotel located in downtown Shanghai

Prehistory

Great Cities

Medieval

Dr Malcolm McNeill lectures at the History of Art and Archaeology department of SOAS, University of London. A fluent Mandarin speaker, he has presented numerous papers on the art and history of Medieval China. Malcolm has also worked at the British Museum and lectured for Asia House, Christie’s, and the V&A.

seeking an iconic archaeological adventure? You may also be interested in Crete & Santorini......................p.74 Athens to Istanbul.....................p.82 Pompeii & Herculaneum...........p.96 Classical Sicily........................ p.106 Jordan|Petra........................... p.152 Peru & the Nazca Lines...........p.164 South Africa.............................p.166

Eastern

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Tour Code: CAN17A

DALMATIA & DUBROVNIK E

xplore the spectacular archaeology of Croatia, from Zagreb to Zadar, Split to Dubrovnik. Against the backdrop of the breathtakingly beautiful Adriatic and its islands, we visit villas, temples, churches and palaces. Part of the Illyrian kingdom, the region succumbed to Roman rule around 32 BC. ‘Dalmatia’ acquired the characteristic trappings of a Roman province: military camps, towns and roads.

Wed 24th May – Fri 2nd Jun 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 10 days £2,695 (sgl supp £360; without flights £2,445)

he province furnished Rome with emperors, including Diocletian, who famously returned in retirement and built a magnificent palace at Split. Travel with Roman specialist and Andante’s Head of Archaeology, John Shepherd. A leisurely tour through 2,000 years of fascinating Croatian history.

• Travel through Croatia, viewing Roman cities, red-roofed walled Medieval towns and the sparkling clear blue waters of the Adriatic

• Enjoy Special Access to Zagreb Archaeological Museum - the curator of the museum will take us on a tour of the museum and deliver a special talk

• Spend two days in Dubrovnik, and discover more about the walled city’s early beginnings, and its place in more recent history

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Croatia’s capital, Zagreb and enjoy an introduction to the Old Town. We explore the picturesque Medieval Gradec Quarter, including the very fine Gothic and Romanesque, St Mark’s Church. Day Two We begin our day with a special tour of Zagreb Archaeological Museum with the museum’s curator. During the afternoon, we continue to the Roman settlement of Aquae Iasae in the town of Varaždinske Toplice. The unusual natural thermal spring site, including the shrine around the spring, has been extensively excavated. Day Three We spend the morning at Andautonia Archaeological Park just outside of

Ruins of the Roman town of Salona, near Split. 34

Zagreb. We explore the remains of a Roman town that has been uncovered, with inscriptions here suggesting it was the cultural and economic centre of the region between the 1st and 3rd century. We drive to Zadar in the afternoon. Day Four We spend the day in Zadar, an ancient Adriatic city which became a major trading centre under Roman rule. We explore sites along the Kalelarga (main street) and visit Romanesque churches of the Middle Ages. After lunch, we visit the Archaeological Museum of Zadar, which houses finds from prehistory onwards. We end the day with a stroll along the Zadarska Riva seafront and visit the unique ‘sea organ’, played by the wind and waves. Day Five We wander around the excavated walls and visit the museum at Burnum Roman Camp. After lunch, we explore Krka National Park, famed for its beauty, preserved natural ecosystems, and remains of Medieval fortresses.

The ancient Adriatic city of Zadar.

ruins of a remarkable Roman city, and the former capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. This afternoon we explore Diocletian’s Imperial Palace. We venture below ground to examine the incredible substructure that supported his lavish home. Day Eight We depart from Split to Dubrovnik, diverting to visit a collection of Roman Imperial sculptures found in their shrine at the Roman town of Narona. Later in the afternoon, we arrive in Dubrovnik. We touch on Croatia’s more troubled recent history at the Croatian War of Independence Museum.

Day Six Enjoy a scenic drive along the Adriatic coastline to Šibenik. Then on to Trogir, founded by Greek sailors in the 3rd century and later sacked and rebuilt in the Middle Ages. Afterwards, we travel to Split and walk around the walls of Diocletian’s extraordinary palace.

Day Nine We spend a full day in Dubrovnik. We walk the city walls, which were built towards the end of the 8th century and were strong enough to defend against a 15 month invasion in the 9th century. We continue to Lovrijenac Fortress. Dubrovnik had a strong maritime culture and this afternoon we visit the old city harbour and Lazaretto, built to quarantine sailors in attempts to protect the city from imported disease.

Day Seven We spend the morning in Salona, the

Day Ten We fly home from Dubrovnik.

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Dalmatia & Dubrovnik CROATIA Aquae Iasae Zagreb Andautonia Croatia

The distinctive red-tiled roofs and harbour of the Old City of Dubrovnik, Croatia.

“I

f you want to see paradise on earth come to Dubrovnik.” George Bernard Shaw

Zadar

Burnum Šibenik Trogir Split

Dubrovnik

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights London to Zagreb; Dubrovnik to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Romans

Hotels 2 nights in a luxury hotel in the centre of Zagreb 3 nights in a centrally located hotel in historic Zadar 2 nights in a 4* seaside hotel in Split 2 nights in a historic hotel located near the gates to Old Town Dubrovnik

GUIDE LECTURER John Shepherd is an experienced archaeologist who specialises in the Roman period. He has worked on archaeological projects in Bulgaria, France, Italy and the UK. He worked at the Museum of London for over 20 years and now teaches at the Highgate Literary and Scientific Institute on various aspects of European archaeology.

interested in exploring more of the roman empire? You may also be interested in Cyprus|The South....................p.38 Roman Germany........................p.64 Meet the Romans.................... p.110 Romans, Visigoths & Viziers...p.168

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: CRO17A

Relaxed Split H

aving purged your enemies, secured peace throughout the Empire and fundamentally re-shaped the structure of Roman taxation, politics and society... What does one of history’s greatest Emperors do next? The answer, in the case of Emperor Diocletian, was to retire to his boyhood home on the idyllic Croatian coast. Here, in AD305, the erstwhile autocrat built a vast palace befitting his status and achievements. Roman specialist and former Museum of London Curator, John Shepherd, leads guests ‘underground and overground’ exploring Europe’s most complete Roman palace. We descend below the modern city, and it is incredible to see just how much of the medieval and modern town is supported by Roman foundations – a testament to the genius of Roman engineering – still standing strong after 1700 years!

Sat 14th – Sat 21st Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 8 days £2,695 (sgl supp £265; without flights £2,395)

• Explore the immense palace of Emperor Diocletian — one of the bestpreserved Roman palaces anywhere in the empire

• Relax and refresh yourself with plenty of free time, and enjoy the endless advantages of staying in just one hotel throughout our holiday

• Let us treat you to a special tasting of local wines – which have been produced in southern Croatia for over 2500 years

ITINER ARY Day One We fly from London to Split and then drive to our hotel, located just steps from Diocletian’s Palace.

support much of the modern city. Enjoy a free afternoon: relax or visit the local markets or any of the other local folk and history museums.

Day Two We acquaint ourselves with Split, tracing the walls and monuments of the immense Palace of Diocletian, interwoven with later medieval houses. Here Diocletian, one of the few emperors to go into real retirement, cultivated his market garden and attempted, not altogether successfully, to avoid being sucked back into the power politics of the Roman world. We visit the cathedral, where we view Diocletian’s mausoleum. The rags to riches emperor began building this complex in 305 AD.

Day Four Today we take a fast boat to the beautiful Dalmatian Island of Hvar, famous for its fine harbour. The hillsides of the island are covered by pine forests, and this was the site of the Greek colony of Pharos, founded where Stari Grad, the old town now lies. We walk along the seafront to the Franciscan Monastery, home to a fine collection of religious art. We also visit the cathedral and explore the imposing fortress above Hvar town. Hvar was attacked by the Turkish fleet on its way to the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.

Day Three We continue our exploration of ancient Spilt, descending underground to view the Roman foundations that still

Day Five At Split Archaeological Museum, the wonderful displays give us a glimpse of ordinary Roman life. We set off for Salona, the ruins of a remarkable Roman city, once the capital of Dalmatia. The martyrdom of a number of local people, some in Salona’s amphitheatre, which we will visit, resulted in large churches being built around the sites of their tombs. This includes one well-preserved cemetery and church in a part of the site called Manastirine.

Sculptural details abound at the cathedral of St Lawrence in Trogir.

Day Six Enjoy a full free day today. A chance to have some more time in lovely Split or simply to relax. Revisit sites in your own time, take a boat trip exploring the many islands that dot the Dalmatian coast, such as Brac, or visit nearby Omis, with its wonderful old mills. Day Seven We drive to Trogir, a picturesque Medieval and Renaissance town that is a UNESCO world heritage site. The street plan of the town dates back to the Hellenistic period, showing remarkable continuity in urban planning. Here, Romanesque architecture meets Venetian Renaissance and Baroque fortresses and cathedrals; and we explore the town museum, tiny art gallery and cathedral before making our way back to Split. Day Eight We fly home from Split to London.

Wine tasting in the evening, in part of the Roman palace used by Diocletian’s bodyguard. An 1841 painting of Diocletian’s Palace. 36

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Relaxed Split CROATIA

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

A panoramic view from Fortica Fortress, on the beautiful island of Hvar.

John Shepherd is Andante’s Director of Archaeology. He is an archaeologist and he is a specialist in the study of ancient glass who has worked extensively in the field in Europe. Much of John’s career has been focused upon Roman provincial archaeology, working at the Museum of London for over 20 years.

Right: Church interior at Trogir.

“I

t was a well-balanced tour, relaxed but not too much so, given the wealth of things to do in one’s free time.” Guest in 2016

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flight from London to Split Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 7 nights in an upmarket 4* hotel located within short walking distance of the Roman Palace of Diocletian. The hotel has a beautiful terrace loungebar where you will be able to soak up the Dalmatian atmosphere.

Small Group

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

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Historic Churches

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Tour Code: SPL17A

CYPRUS The South T

his beautiful Mediterranean island has a rich Prehistoric, Classical and Medieval past. Recent research has pushed back the dates for the earliest occupation of Cyprus to over 10,000 years ago, and over millennia the people of Cyprus developed their own distinctive artefacts, buildings, art and culture. From a Bronze Age olive oil ‘factory’, to Roman tombs, to vineyards once tended by crusaders, the remains of ancient Cyprus each tell a story.

Thu 20th – Thu 27th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Paul Croft 8 days £2,395 (sgl supp £270; without flights £2,075)

A very beautiful journey through the land famed as the birthplace of Aphrodite. Dr Paul Croft, who has devoted his career to the study of Cypriot archaeology, leads us from mountain churches to Prehistoric and Classical sites, overlooking the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean.

• A privileged introduction to Cypriot archaeology - special access to sites, introduced by local archaeologists

• Fantastic, diverse archaeology from Neolithic houses, to the fabulous mosaics at Paphos

• Journey into the unspoilt Troodos Mountains, with traditional villages and some spectacular Byzantine churches

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Larnaca and transfer to our hotel in Limassol. Day Two We begin our tour at the site of Khirokitia, an exceptionally preserved Neolithic walled village with over 60 stone roundhouses. We have special access to the Bronze Age olive oil ‘factory’ excavations at Kalavasos, especially opened for our group. After lunch we continue to the Crusader fortress of Kolossi, which stood by the vineyards from which the Knights of St John made their wine. End the day at Limassol Castle. Day Three All day in the Cypriot capital of Nicosia, founded in the Bronze Age, the city has been continuously inhabited for almost 5000 years. We

Gladiator Margaritis in combat, depicted in a mosaic at the ancient city of Kourion.

also visit the Cyprus Museum which houses the world’s most extensive collections of Cypriot archaeology. Free time to walk around the old town this afternoon, including the well-preserved Venetian walls, built in an (ultimately futile) attempt to defend the city from Ottoman invasion. Day Four We drive into the beautiful Troodos mountains to visit a wonderful series of frescoed Byzantine churches, many of which are World Heritage Sites. The lively detail and colours in the frescoes are remarkable. We also stop at the traditional town of Kakopetria, the Medieval streets picturesquely set. Day Five Into Classical Cyprus at the ancient city of Kourion, which blossomed under the Ptolemies and Romans. Paul will introduce remains including a (reconstructed) Graeco-Roman theatre, and Roman houses with superb mosaics. Continue to the important religious centre known as the Sanctuary of Apollo Ylatis (‘of the woods’). We end the day at the Copper Age site at Souskiou, renowned for its famous cruciform figurines, such as the one seen on the Cyprus Euro coin. Day Six Our first visit to the World Heritage site of Paphos. Today we explore the elaborate rock cut ‘Tombs of the Kings’ which date from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD.

The rock where, legend has it, the goddess Aphrodite emerged from the sea.

We visit sites in the vicinity including This morning we also have special access to the Lemba Archaeological Research Centre, with a handling session led by Paul. The centre has been the home of Prehistoric projects in western Cyprus for 30 years. Kissonerga where some of the earliest water-wells in the world have been found. On to Maa, a Late Bronze Age site on a beautiful promontory. Day Seven Our second day at the ancient city of Paphos, an important Roman city. Remains include a Hellenistic pebble mosaic, but it is the 3rd century AD Roman mosaics which have made the site famous. After lunch we continue to the Paphos Archaeological Museum and the six-domed Church of Ayia Paraskevi. Day Eight Before we return home, we visit Aphrodite’s Sanctuary at the World Heritage Site of Kouklia.

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Cyprus - The South CYPRUS

GUIDE LECTURER

The Sanctuary of Apollo Ylatis at Kourion. Nicosia

Cyprus

“T

o Sea-set Kypros [Cyprus] the moist breath of the western wind wafted Aphrodite over the waves of the loud-moaning sea in soft foam.” Homeric Hymn to Aphrodite, 7th century BC

Kakopetria Kissonerga Mosphilie

Larnaca khirokitia Kalavasos

Paphos Kourion

Limassol

Kolossi Castle

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights from London to Larnaca, Paphos to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach; minibus to Souskiou Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine. We have a celebratory final dinner in the ‘best restaurant in Cyprus’ Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Greeks

Prehistory

Hotels 4 nights in a seaside holiday hotel on the edge of Limassol overlooking the Mediterranean sea 3 nights in a 5* spa hotel just outside Paphos with access to a beach and plenty of space to absorb the tranquility of the area

Romans

Medieval

Dr Paul Croft is a British prehistorian who lives in Cyprus. He reconstructs ancient buildings, excavates, and is a specialist in zooarchaeology. Paul holds a fellowship at the University of Edinburgh and manages the Lemba Archaeological Research Centre. He is also involved with numerous projects in Cyprus and the Near East.

want to see more of the ancient Mediterranean? You may also be interested in Crete & Santorini......................p.74 The Cyclades by Gulet...............p.80 Classical Sicily.........................p.106 Malta & Gozo...........................p.156

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: CYP17A

CYPRUS The North: Road to Salamis Cyprus offers a beautiful setting for archaeological discovery. Amidst the unspoiled natural landscape of this sun-blanched land, on our journey through the northern part of the island we find an array of Medieval castles, expansive classical sites, and gentle villages. Meet with a local archaeologist who offers a real insight into the ongoing excavations on the island. Salamis is, of course, the true highlight of our tour. The ancient city covers a small stretch of land along the Cypriot shore, and is easily the country’s best archaeological site. Discover the fully restored Roman amphitheatre, a gymnasium with marble baths, and a fascinating collection of mosaics.

Thu 27th Apr – Fri 5th May 2017 Thu 28th Sep – Fri 6th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Terry Richardson 9 days £2,295 (sgl supp £300; without flights £2,245)

• Explore vast archaeological sites of once mighty classical cities - with a

mammoth gymnasium complex, Roman baths and a partially restored theatre

• Enjoy gorgeous, breathtaking views from the Kyrenia Mountains out across the Mediterranean Sea

• Discover atmospheric Byzantine castles, domed Ottoman mosques, arched caravanserai, and other landmarks from Cyprus’ rich history

ITINER ARY Day One We fly into Ercan, via Istanbul. Day Two We spend the day strolling through the beautiful town of Kyrenia - the ancient town of Girne. We also stop at the Folk Art Museum along with the Shipwreck Museum, which tell the story of trade in the Mediterranean at the turn of the 4th century BC. After lunch, we take a guided tour of the impressive Kyrenia Castle. The castle dates back to the Byzantine period, and has also served the Crusaders, Venetians, Ottomans and British in the long contest over the ownership of the island. Day Three Today begins at the Neolithic settlement of Akanthou, where we have special access to ongoing excavations.

One of the many marble statues at Salamis. 40

We spend the afternoon at the ecovillage Büyükkonuk, where we see a reconstructed olive mill, and end the day with a visit to Ayios Trias. Day Four This day will be dedicated to the capital of Cyprus, Nicosia. In the morning we will visit the Cyprus Museum, housing the most important archaeological artefacts found throughout the island. After lunch we have an appointment at the Centre of Visual Arts & Research, where the Severis Collection is on display. The rest of the day will be spent in the northern part of Nicosia’s Old Town, where we visit the sixteenth-century Büyük Han, a beautiful caravanserai built by the Ottomans. We also explore Nicosia’s Selimye Mosque, converted from a cathedral in 1570. Day Five This morning we travel to Güzelyurt, stopping en-route to see the wellknown altar at the late Bronze Age sanctuary of Myrtou Pigadhes. We will see the Museum of Archaeology and Natural History before heading to the ancient city of Soli. Our final visit of the day will be the 5th century BC Palace of Vouni, with its beautiful views out across the sea. Day Six We discover the magnificent Castle of St. Hilarion in the Kyrenia mountains. The best preserved of the Kyrenia strongholds, it was originally founded

The Monastery of St Barnabas, founded on the site of the apostle by the same name.

as a monastery and later fortified by the Byzantines as a defense against the Arabian pirates who raided the coast in the 11th century. We continue to the famous Bellapais Abbey, a 13th century monastery also known as the Abbey of Peace. Day Seven We spend the day in Famagusta, visiting Othello Castle built by the Lusignans in the 14th century which might have been the inspiration for Shakespeare’s play. In the afternoon we will experience the medieval remains of Famagusta during a walking tour. Day Eight We enjoy a morning at the ancient site of Salamis, famous for its archaic period “Royal Tombs” and Cellarka cemetery. We also visit the Bronze Age city of Enkomi, once an important trading centre. Day Nine We return home today, flying from Ercan via Istanbul.

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Cyprus Tour - Tour - Thename North COUNTRY CYPRUS

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

The ruins of the once forbidding St Hilarion Castle.

Kyrenia

Myrthou Pigadhes Vouni Palace

“T

his advance was made to prevent the Greeks from escaping by flight, and to block them up in Salamis, where it was thought that vengeance might be taken upon them.” Herodotus, Battle for Salamis

Nicosia Ancient Soli Ercan Airport

Akanthou Salamis Enkomi Famagusta

Cyprus

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Ercan via Istanbul Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Greeks

Hotels 5 nights in an opulent 5* hotel in downtown Kyrenia, blending Colonial and Ottoman architectural influences 3 nights in a newly renovated hotel situated in the ancient port town of Famagusta, on the island’s east coast

Medieval

Eastern

Terry Richardson has a university background in Ancient History and Classical Civilization. He is an author of the ‘Rough Guide: Turkey’, and co-author/photographer of ‘The Lycian Way’. Terry was involved in setting up Turkey’s first marked walking trail, the Lycian Way. He spends his time between the UK and Turkey, and visits Istanbul and the Turquoise Coast regularly.

interested in a visit to the aegean and mediterranean? You may also be interested in: Egypt|Land of the Pharaohs......p.42 Glories of Pericles......................p.78 Crete & Santorini...................... p.74 The Peloponnese........................ p.70 The Aegean Coast of Turkey.... p.186

Tour Codes: Thu 22nd Apr – Fri 5th May (NCY17A) Thu 28th Sept – Fri 6th Oct (NCY17B)

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EGYPT Land of the Pharaohs P

yramids, tombs and mummies – the archaeology of Ancient Egypt is one of the most instantly recognisable of all the great civilisations. This is a narrative of power, vision and ambition. The monuments of Egypt are so much more than dry and dusty stones – through the real expertise of Guide Lecturer Lucia Gahlin we ‘meet’ the real ancient Egyptians: from the legendary pharaohs to the humble workers who laboured to build their tombs and palaces. We have also arranged special access inside the Great Pyramid and out of hours at Cairo Museum, making this a very privileged introduction to the long vanished kingdoms along the Nile.

Fri 10th – Mon 20th Nov 2017 Guide Lecturer: Lucia Gahlin 11 days £2,995 (sgl supp £300; without flights £2,495)

• Enter the inner chamber of the Great Pyramid of Giza during a special morning visit

• Delve behind the scenes at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, and enjoy special access to many treasures found inside

• Led by seasoned Egyptologist, Lucia Gahlin, a wonderful travel companion who has excavated extensively throughout Egypt

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Cairo. Day Two Our first stop is Saqqara, including the Imhotep museum, the Step Pyramid of Djoser and one of the mastaba tombs and pyramid of Teti with its Pyramid Texts. On to Dahshur, where there are several pyramids, two of which are thought to be the earliest and best preserved true pyramids in Egypt; the Bent and Red Pyramids. Day Three We enjoy an early morning at Giza – visiting the pyramids, and the Solar Boat Museum. Special Access to the inner chambers of the Great Pyramid of Khufu. We also have special out-of hours access to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Avoid the crowds and view the treasures of Tutankhamun and more.

Day Four Drive to Minya, stopping en route at the early pyramid complex at Meidum. Drive South to Beni Hasan, a cemetery of tombs cut high in the desert cliff overlooking the Nile. Day Five Today we explore Tell el-Amarna, the most significant surviving city site from ancient Egypt. Its ancient name was Akhetaten, the ‘Horizon of the Aten’ and was the capital of the so-called heretic pharaoh Akhenaten. Day Six We spend a day at Abydos, where we see the beautiful temple of Seti I. Behind the temple is an intriguing structure known as the Osirieion. This is a type of monument known as an ‘Osiris Tomb’ and designed to mimic the appearance of the mythical tomb of Osiris. In Dendera we see the Temple of Hathor, with its depiction of Cleopatra VII and Caesarion. Day Seven We visit the famous Colossi of Memnon on the West Bank at Thebes. Then we move on to the temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahri. The tombs worked as the pyramids did; securing the safe passage of the deceased into the afterlife.

The Pyramids of Khufu (Cheops) and his son, Khafre (Chephren) at Giza.

Day Eight We travel to Deir el Medina, the village of the workers who constructed the tombs in the Valley of the Kings. On to see Medinet Habu, arguably the best preserved temple of the New Kingdom, and the Ramesseum, with its fallen colossus of Ramesses II. Here we come closest to the daily lives of a group of individuals living in a community. A refreshing felucca ride on the Nile to finish the day. Day Nine This morning we visit Karnak, the cult temple of Amun-Ra, chief of the deities of the New Kingdom. This is a spectacular multi-period site with a wealth of religious and historical inscriptions. We visit Luxor Museum home to many well-known works of art including the famous statue of Tuthmosis III. Day Ten We take an early morning drive out to temples at El Kab and Edfu. We later return to Luxor for a felucca ride on the Nile. Day Eleven Return home via Cairo.

This is followed by a visit to the Valley of the Kings including the tomb of Tutankhamun. Hieroglyphs in Madinet Habu Temple. 42

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Egypt - Land Of the Pharaohs EGYPT

GUIDE LECTURER

A partially surviving relief in the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. Giza

Cairo Memphis

Saqqara

was a sight surpassing all precedent, and one we never dreamed of seeing.” Howard Carter

Tell el-Amarna Egypt Dendera Karnak Valley of the Kings Luxor Deir el-Medina Edfu

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights London to Cairo; internal flights: Cairo/Luxor Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach; boat down the Nile; Meals - All meals included Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 3 nights in a famous and historic 5* hotel in Giza, furnished with antique and handcrafted touches 1 night in a centrally located hotel in the small city of Minya 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Assiut overlooking the Nile 5 nights in a luxury resort in Luxor on the banks of the Nile

Lucia Gahlin is an Egyptologist who has worked extensively on Amarna material in London’s Petrie Museum. She has previously worked in Middle Egypt, at the archaeological site of Tell el-Amarna. Lucia is also an Honorary Research Associate at the Institute of Archaeology, University College London.

Travelling to Egypt We consider safety the highest priority when choosing our hotels and planning our itineraries. Should UK Foreign Office advice discourage travel to Egypt, this tour will not go ahead. However, we feel that it is important to continue to support Egyptian heritage agencies by resuming our tours.

Egyptians

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Tour Code: EGY17A

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france

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THE VIA JULIA Côte d’Azur O

ver six days, we explore the Roman sites and cities along the great road called the Via Julia Augusta. The road began in Arles, one of the foremost Roman provincial cities in the region, then ran south across France and into Italy. Our journey includes mighty works of Roman engineering, and the sites of earlier Iron Age tribes and Greek settlers. One of our highest-rated tours in 2014, it offers a panoramic exploration of Roman and Gallic life in the South of France. John Shepherd explores the Roman origins of the sparkling Côte d’Azur. Much more than a playground for the rich, the area is profuse with archaeology. April is an excellent time to explore the South of France, with very pleasant temperatures and spring in the air, but well before the peak tourist season.

Sat 1st – Sat 8th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 8 days £2,245 (sgl supp £325; without flights £2,045)

• Follow the route forged by the Romans from their newly

acquired territory in southern Gaul, along the French coast towards Italy

• Mighty Roman monuments, extraordinarily well-preserved, as well as the history of the Gauls who preceded and lived alongside them

• Glorious scenery of the Côte d’Azur - sun, sea and the Romans ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Marseille and transfer to our hotel in Arles. Day Two We spend today in golden Arles, a city on the Rhône and one of the major power centres of Roman France. It became the capital of all Gaul in the 4th and 5th centuries AD and was the western terminus of the Via Julia Augusta. We visit well-preserved Roman monuments including the amphitheatre, theatre and an underground portico that once supported the forum. Day Three We begin our day at Barbegal a waterpowered Roman mill with sixteen waterwheels fed by an aqueduct. We continue to the St Chamas Bridge which carried the Via Julia Augusta over the River Touloubre. After lunch, we step back into the Iron Age at the town of Entremont. This important pre-Roman settlement once held a

shrine to the grisly Celtic cult of the severed head.

Mosaic of a sea nymph carried by a seahorse, housed in Arles Museum.

Day Four Today we explore Marseille, the ancient city of Massilia and the premier Greek colony of Gaul. We visit the site of the ancient harbour, before moving across the waterfront to the Roman Docks Museum. After lunch, enjoy free time at leisure in Marseille.

Day Six We travel to the elegant city of Nice, where we explore the extensive archaeological zone, with its arena, amphitheatre and bath complex. We continue to Beaulieu-sur-Mer and the recreated Greek Villa Kerylos beautifully set overlooking the sea. We ascend to the Trophée des Alpes, the highest point on the Via Julia Augusta, marked by Augustus’ monument celebrating the conquest of the mountain tribes, to view this extraordinary monument overlooking Monaco.

Day Five This morning we enjoy a lovely drive east along the coast to the pretty town of Fréjus. Formerly Forum Julii, this small town was one of Caesar’s colonies. Agricola, the Roman general responsible for much of the conquest of northern England, was born here. We have a talk by local specialists who take us to see many excellent Roman remains here, from Roman cisterns to fish tanks.

We cross to Ventimiglia, in Italy where we have arranged special access to the Roman site of Albintimilium, introduced by local archaeologists. Day Seven After lunch we see finds from the site at the Museo Civico, before free time this afternoon. Day Eight Before we depart for Nice airport, we take advantage of our proximity to the rock shelters of Balzi Rossi, a site with some very early evidence of man’s occupation in the region. We fly home today.

Villa Kerylos, the beautiful 1920 recreation of a Grecian villa at Beaulieu-sur-Mer. 46

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The Via Julia FRANCE

GUIDE LECTURER

The wonderfully preserved Roman amphitheatre at Arles.

Italy France

“T

o the Emperor Augustus…in commemoration that, under his leadership and auspices, all the Alpine peoples, from the Upper Sea to the Lower Sea, were submitted to the Imperium of the Roman People.” Inscription on the Trophée des Alpes, at the highest point of the Via Julia Augusta

Ventimiglia Menton Arles

Nice Entremont Marseille

Frejus

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights London to Marseille; Nice to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Prehistory

Hotels 2 nights in an elegant, traditional hotel in historic downtown Arles, just a short walk from the amphitheatre 2 nights in a luxury 4* hotel in Marseille, just across the road from the historic Old Port 3 nights in a 4* hotel in Menton, overlooking the bay

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

John Shepherd is an experienced archaeologist who specialises in the Roman period. He has worked on archaeological projects in Bulgaria, France, Italy and the UK. He worked at the Museum of London for over 20 years and now teaches at the Highgate Literary and Scientific Institute on various aspects of European archaeology.

already travelled with john to the côte d’a zur? He is also leading tours to... Dalmatia & Dubrovnik.............p.34 Pompeii & Herculaneum...........p.96 Meet the Romans.....................p.110

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: VJA17A

PYRENEES ROCK ART C

reated by our ancestors around 35,000 to 10,000 years ago, at a time when Europe lay in the grip of an Ice Age and creatures now long-extinct roamed the countryside, cave art provides one of the most direct connections with our distant past. The truly astonishing feature of rock art is that it remains precisely where the artist intended. And we, the modern visitors, may well view the art while standing upon the exact spot on which the artist stood.

Mon 29th May – Sun 4th Jun 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Paul Bahn 7 days £2,245 (sgl supp £150; without flights £2,045)

Preserved by the constant temperature of their environment, these drawings and paintings have remained intact for millennia, deep in the caves of the Pyrenees. Dr Bahn has devoted his career to the study of rock art and is able to arrange superb access to the caves.

• Enjoy privileged access to cave sites usually closed to the public, in the company of an archaeologist and specialist on prehistoric rock art

• All the arrangements made for you to give the best possible access to the caves and rock shelters of this beautiful region

• Based in a single hotel - a comfortable former coaching inn in St Girons ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Toulouse and drive to our hotel in St Girons. Day Two Begin our tour at the large cave site at Mas d’Azil, characterised by colourfully decorated pebbles and finely carved bone harpoons. The museum has a fine collection of portable art and other materials from the incredibly rich occupation levels of the cave. We will have a free afternoon to explore St. Girons. Day Three Morning at Gargas, where the cave art is composed of two different elements, created over a similar period of time. One is a collection of animal paintings of a period and a style comparable to those at Lascaux in the Dordogne. The other is a group of 231 hand prints in black, red, brown, ochre and white. Afternoon visit to the Roman site of

St Etienne Cathedral in Toulouse. 48

Lugdunum Convenarum at the foot of the pretty medieval walled town of St Bertrand de Comminges, with fine Romanesque basilica and a well-known cathedral and cloister. Day Four Mountain drive through the Massif de l’Arize to the Parc de la Préhistoire at Bénat. It is primarily important for its reconstructed facsimile of some of the decorated galleries at Niaux, including some from parts of the cave which one cannot visit. There are also casts of portable art, the huts outside and demonstrations of fire-making. On to the enormous cave at Bédeilhac which contained sizable archaeological deposits, many of which have been pillaged, especially during the Second World War, when the cave was used as an underground aircraft factory. There are paintings and also drawings in the clay floor. Day Five Visit the cave of La Vache, situated opposite Niaux, but lower in the valley. This cave served as a living area for prehistoric people over several centuries and, although undecorated, shows living floors and hearths. Weapons and tools in bone, flint and antler were found with an astonishing array of animals portrayed on them: wolf, lion, antelope, bear, bison, aurochs, ibex, horse, red deer, reindeer, fish and, most unusually, humans. Continue to the famous painted cave of Niaux, dramatically situated with

A small bridge over a river in the lower Pyrenees.

beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, one of the deep cave sanctuaries. There are a variety of signs and marks, as well as the depiction of many animals. This is one of the greatest and most powerful collections of Ice Age drawings that can still be visited. It forms a real climax to the tour. Day Six Free time to explore St Girons’ market and to buy local produce to take home. Day Seven We hope to be able to arrange a special museum visit this very afternoon. We enjoy some free time in Toulouse before our flight home.

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Pyrenees Rock Art FRANCE

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Cave art depicting bison in the Pyrenees. France

“T

he unknown surrounds the scientist who ventures into the ocean of prehistoric ages.” Emile Cartailhac, French prehistorian who led investigations into Niaux Caves in 1907

Toulouse Basilique Saint-Just de Vacabrere Lugdunum Convenarum Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges

Grotte du Mas-d’Azil Saint-Girons Niaux Cave

Spain

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Toulouse Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 6 nights in a comfortable hand-picked hotel in St Girons — the town is situated on the banks of the Salat, and a walk along the riverside is perfect for taking in palaces, parks, and points of interest

Small Group

Just One Hotel

Rock Art

curious about prehistoric rock art? You may also be interested in: Dordogne: Cave Art..................p.54 The Ice Man & His World.......p.124 Rock Art in Namibia................p.160 Sweden & Norway...................p.182

Prehistory

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Tour Code: PYR17B

Relaxed Provence T

he idyllic landscapes of Provence are home to some of Europe’s finest Roman remains. Triumphal arches, amphitheatres, theatres and aqueducts – at one and the same time, feats of engineering and a clear demonstration of power to the local Gallic tribes. Today, many of these monuments remain remarkably complete - from the magnificent amphitheatres at Arles and Nimes to the ruins of Glanum - an abandoned Roman town dramatically sited in a cleft in the hills. Expert Romanists and archaeologists tell the story of the Romans in Provence. Hannibal marched his troops across the Provençal hills en-route to cross the Alps; Marius defeated Germanic tribes here; Julius Caesar settled his veterans in the region.

Mon 15th – Sun 21st May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Denise Allen Mon 18th – Sun 24th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Tony O’Connor Mon 25th Sep – Sun 1st Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: TBC 7 days £2,295 (sgl supp £315; without flights £2,125)

• See the beautiful Pont du Gard, a remarkable feat of Roman engineering, with an optional swim beneath the famous arches

• Free time to absorb the atmosphere and epicurean lifestyle of the area at your own pace

• Enjoy the Roman architecture of Nîmes, including the white marble baths and the perfectly preserved Maison Carrée

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Marseille and transfer to our hotel in the typically Provencal town of St Remy de Provence. Day Two We begin in Nîmes, once a thriving Roman town with a population of c.60,000. Nîmes was ‘gifted’ numerous ostentatious monuments under Roman rule, many of which still survive. Visits include the arena and the Maison Carée - one of Europe’s best preserved Roman temples, dedicated to Augustus’ grandsons and heirs. We also see the original spring of Nemausus, around which the pre-Roman settlement grew up, now landscaped into a lovely park, with the remains of the Temple of Diana. Nearby, continuing the watery theme, is the castellum divisorium, where the water coming in by aqueduct was directed towards the various parts of the city.

Day Three A free morning to explore St Remy de Provence. We visit the nearby site of Glanum in the afternoon, set in a cleft in the Alpilles on the edge of the modern town. Once more, the town grew up around a spring to the god Glan, and the sanctuary continued to be used into the Roman period, with a substantial town growing up around it. Just outside the town is a triumphal arch and a funerary monument, both well-preserved, known as Les Antiques. Day Four We begin the day by visiting Orange and its famous theatre and triumphal arch – again, both exceptionally well-preserved by being turned into fortifications in the Medieval period. This is followed by a special private wine tasting and lunch at the Vergers des Papes in the Châteauneuf du Pape region. We have some free time on our early return to St-Rémy-de-Provence or you could make an optional visit to St Paul de Mausolee, the asylum where van Gogh stayed.

An extant Roman triumphal arch at Glanum. 50

Day Five The Roman past of Arles still seems remarkably close, with its monuments sitting comfortably within the later town. These include an amphitheatre (still in use for bullfighting), a theatre, baths and cryptoporticus tunnels under

Typical red-tiled roofs in a hillside Provençal town.

the forum. The modern Archaeological Museum has been built alongside one end of the Roman circus, and it vividly tells the story of Roman Arelate with its remarkable collection. This is one of the best museums of its kind in France. We return to St Remy de Provence via the multiple mills lying on the line of the main aqueduct of the city at Barbegal. Day Six We spend the morning visiting the spectacular stretch of aqueduct that once fed Nimes known as the Pont du Gard. This was a remarkable feat of Roman engineering to get the water channel running efficiently over the gorge, and we have a private tour here, which includes the opportunity to walk along the water channel. We have lunch beside the aqueduct before a free afternoon here – there is the chance to swim in the river flowing under the Pont du Gard itself. Day Seven We leave Provence today, taking our coach to Marseille airport.

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NEW

Relaxed Provence FRANCE

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

The Pont du Gard, a remarkably intact ancient Roman aqueduct crossing the Gardon river.

Dr Denise Allen began her archaeological career as a full-time digger, working for three years on sites all over the UK. She has continued to work as a freelance glass specialist ever since. Denise worked for Andante Travels for over 20 years as Director of Archaeology leaving the company in 2015. She continues to lead tours whenever she can!

Right: The Roman Amphitheatre at Arles.

“T

he most faithful allies of the Romans.” Cicero, referring to the people of Massalia

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Marseille Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Hotels 6 nights in an laid-back, comfortable hotel close to the village of SaintRémy-de-Provence, with bright, country-style rooms and interiors

Just One Hotel

Romans

looking for a relaxed break? You may also be interested in: Relaxed Split............................p.36 Relaxed Capri.........................p.112 Relaxed Tuscany.....................p.126 Relaxed Siracusa....................p.136

Tour Code: Mon 15th - Sun 21st May (PRR17A) Mon 18th - Sun 24th Sept (PRR17B) Mon 25th Sep- Sun 1st Oct (PRR17C)

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VINTAGE PROVENCE O

ne of the joys of travelling to Provence is soaking up the stunning variety of landscapes: fields of lavender, ancient olive groves, cliff-top roads, and maquis-cloaked hills… This idyllic landscape is home to some of Europe’s finest Roman remains - arches, amphitheatres, aqueducts and more - many remarkably complete. Its vineyards are equally historic, dating back 2600 years – this is also the only place in France to specialise in Rosé. Embrace the Provencal way of life – extraordinary archaeology, gorgeous surroundings, delicious wines and mouth-watering Mediterranean cooking.

Sun 28th May – Sat 3rd Jun 2017 Guide Lecturer: Tony O’Connor 7 days £2,635 (sgl supp £295; without flights £2,425)

Andante Travels have joined forces with Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours to offer a series of Wine & Archaeology tours

• Explore beautiful towns along the Mediterranean; and discover remarkably complete monuments, including the amazing Pont du Gard aqueduct

• Meet members of the winemaking teams at each of our visits and tastings – and sample delicately perfumed rosés and dark, full-bodied reds

• Enjoy a wine tasting over dinner at an estate in the iconic Châteauneuf du Pape appellation

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Avignon in time for an introductory tasting over dinner. Day Two We travel to Orange to view the Roman Théâtre antique d’Orange and its museum. The theatre was built early in the 1st century and is incredibly well-preserved. We stop for lunch and a tasting at the organic winery, Clos de Cavaux in Vacqueyras. Enjoy some free time in Avignon, exploring the winding streets of the city’s old town this afternoon. Day Three Our day begins at Pont du Gard – we have special access to the ancient Roman aqueduct crossing the River Gardon.

A quiet, charming cobblestone street in Arles. 52

We continue to Lapidary Archaeological Museum in Avignon, which houses many Egyptian, Etruscan, Greco-Roman artefacts. We stop for lunch, before enjoying a walking tour around Avignon. We visit the famous medieval bridge, Pont Saint-Bénézet along the way. Tonght, we sit down to dinner and a wine tasting at an estate in Châteauneuf du Pape. Day Four We travel to Arles to visit the Amphitheatre les Arenes. Built in 90 AD, the two-tier amphitheatre was capable of seating more than 20,000 spectators. We continue to the nearby Antiquities Museum - Musee de l’Arles – which houses an interesting collection of regional Roman sculptures. We also visit the Church of St. Trophime - its cloister and its sculpted capitals are testaments to the great resources that were invested in creating a special place of devotion. We stop for lunch in Arles before an afternoon wine visit at a local winery. Day Five We begin the day at the Acropolis Roquepertuse – a historical religious centre for the Celts. We continue to Granet Museum in Velaux. The museum contains major paintings by Jean-Dominique Ingres, an authentic self-portrait by Rembrandt and works by Cézanne, Giacometti and Nicolas de Staël. We stop for a light lunch, before moving on to to Entremont to

View from the central Arch of Triumph in Orange, France.

visit the Oppidum – the archaeological site contains two distinct areas of settlement surrounded by ramparts. Day Six We spend the day in Bandol – a gentle seaside resort and a favourite retreat for artists and writers. The wines here are some of the most internationally recognized in Provence. We sample many throughout the day at local estates and over lunch at Domaines Bunan. The family run estate offers fantastic vintage reds, characterful rosés and exquisite white wines. We enjoy dinner at Chateau de Pibarnon tonight. They produce an exceptional selection of Rosés. Day Seven We travel to Marseille to visit Vieille Charité Museum in the heart of the old Panier quarter. The former almshouse, is now home to a number of different museums and libraries, including: the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology – which has a unique collection of engraved human skulls and trophy heads from South America. After a light lunch in Marseille, we transfer to the airport for our afternoon flights home.

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Vintage Provence FRANCE

GUIDE LECTURER

France

Avignon bridge with Popes Palace, Pont Saint Bénezet, Provence, France. Orange

“I

regard those as wise who employ old wine freely and study old stories.” Plautus, Roman playwright, c. 254-184 BC

Pont du Gard

Avignon Arles

Oppidum d’Entremont Aix Marseilles Bandol

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Marseille Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Greeks

Romans

Hotels 3 nights in an upscale, modern 4* hotel set in downtown Avignon 2 nights in a 4* hotel in downtown Aix-en-Provence, with sophisticated, polished interiors 1 night in a hilltop hotel in Cadièred’Azur, overlooking the countryside

Medieval

Tony O’Connor is a specialist in the Roman Empire and has excavated widely across Britain, Europe and North Africa. He is particularly passionate about Roman North Africa. Tony is also deeply interested in the study of Roman coinage, and in numismatics more widely, and is able to use his skills in coin analysis in his role as a museum archaeologist.

curious about other combined archaeology tours? You may be interested in: Sicily: Wine of the Gods...........p.138 Pompeii & Amalfi.....................p.128 Turin Festive Food....................p.146 Festive Food in Bologna...........p.148

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: AAP17A

DORDOGNE Prehistoric Cave Art T

he caves of the Dordogne Valley are home to one of the earliest, and most extraordinary, displays of human creativity. Wild animals and human figures, some up to 30,000 years old, are vividly brought to life in - daubed in ochre and charcoal and etched on cave walls Dr Paul Bahn (June) and Dr Iain Morley (September) tell the story of the art, its discovery and what is known of the people who created it — the first true ‘old masters’, caught in the extreme cold of the last Ice Age. We will visit some of the world-famous rock-art sites - taking you as close as is possible to the lives of our remotest Ice-Age ancestors.

Mon 5th – Mon 12th Jun 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Paul Bahn Mon 18th – Mon 25th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Iain Morley 8 days £2,495 (sgl supp £380; without trains £2,295)

• Small group tours led by experts in rock art and the archaeology of the last Ice Age - Dr Paul Bahn and Dr Iain Morley

• We have specially booked access to unique and increasingly difficult to see Paleolithic art

• Extended itinerary taking in both the verdant landscapes and limestone plateaux of the Dordogne and Poitiers

ITINER ARY Day One Travel by Eurostar and TGV to Brive, and transfer to our hotel in Les Eyzies. Day Two We begin our journey at Bernifal cave to see its wonderful depictions of mammoths. We continue to the rock shelter at Cap Blanc, a rare example of Ice Age sculpted bas-reliefs and the best still in situ which are open to the public. Travel by electric train into the cave system of Rouffignac, more than five miles long. About one-third of all mammoth depictions known from cave art come from this cave. Day Three Our morning is spent viewing the complete facsimile of the world famous painted cave at Lascaux, long

The practice of using the cliffs and overhanging rocks as habitation and shelter continues in the Dordogne.

since closed to the public. This is the most famous and spectacular of all decorated caves, with hundreds of paintings and 1,500 engravings, bestknown for its awe inspiring depictions of aurochs, horses and deer. Continue to the park at Le Thot, where animals which would have been extant in the Ice Age are bred and kept. We take a short drive to Font-de-Gaume, the only decorated cave in France with multicoloured paintings which remains open to the public. Day Four We drive to the fascinating site of Laugerie Haute, with remains of occupation dating from the Upper Palaeolithic. Onto the small rock shelter known as Abri du Poisson, famed for the bas-relief of a male salmon across the ceiling, more than 1m in length, and once painted red. We continue to Le Moustier, site of several Neanderthal burials. Returning to Les Eyzies we visit the excavations at Abri Pataud where archaeologists have been attempting to trace artistic progress through the millennia. End the day at the new Cro-Magnon Museum. Day Five We travel south towards Gourdon to see two geologically beautiful caves decorated by both humans, and nature. Our first visit is to Cougnac which contains the claw-marks of cave bears. We also see paintings of mammoths, ibex, human type figures and three megaloceros, many of which take

The Dordogne river flows through the beautiful and verdant countryside with picturesque villages.

advantage of the natural shapes of the cave wall. Continue to Pech Merle, with painted black outline aurochs, mammoth, spotted-horses, geometric shapes and hand prints. Day Six Visit La Chaire à Calvin, a rock shelter with frieze dating back around 15,000 years. Evidence of rhinoceros, red deer, auroch and many other animals has been found here, along with bone and stone tools. We move on to the Lussac Museum of Prehistory. Day Seven We spend our final day viewing the excellent facsimile at Angles surl’Anglin, one of the greatest sculpted friezes from the Ice Age, with several life-size ibex, and, very unusually, several human females, as well as bison, horses and cats. We end our programme of visits with an afternoon at the Museum at Pressigny. Day Eight If time allows we will visit Poitiers Museum before boarding our train to Paris and then home.

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Dordogne - Prehistoric Cave Art FRANCE

SMALL GROUP

Pressigny

Lascaux: the world’s most famous painted cave with hundreds of paintings and over a thousand engravings.

Poitiers

Angles sur-l’Anglin Lussac

France

“W

e have discovered nothing.” Picasso on modern art after emerging from Lascaux.

Lascaux Brive La Gaillarde Rouffignac Laugerie-Haute Le Thot Les Eyzies de Tayac Cap Blanc Cougnac Pech Merle

WHAT’S INCLUDED Trains - London to Brive, via Paris; Poiters to London, via Lille Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Small Group

By Rail

All Inclusive

Hotel June: 5 nights in a small 3* hotel in Les Eyzies, close to many of our sites Sept: 5 nights in a charming traditional hotel with a swimming pool on the outskirts of Les Eyzies 2 nights in the historic centre of Poitiers, on the Clain river

Rock Art

Prehistory

GUIDE LECTURERS Paul Bahn is a Palaeolithic archaeologist and Palaeoanthropologist, he has taught human evolution at the universities of Cambridge and Oxford since 2002. He is not only a leading academic but a great exponent of popular and accessible archaeology, and he has been leading tours for Andante Travels since 2000.

Dr Iain Morley is a Palaeolithic archaeologist and has taught human evolution at the universities of Cambridge and Oxford since 2002. He is currently the Academic Coordinator of the School of Anthropology & Museum Ethnography at the University of Oxford.

Tour Codes: Mon 5th - Mon 12th Jun (DOR16A) Mon 18th - Mon 25th Sep (DOR16B)

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ROMANS On the Rhône R

ealising the importance of this region in their ambitions for Gaul, the Romans conquered the Rhône valley in 121 BC, and under Julius Caesar continued north into Burgundy during his Gallic War, 58-51 BC. Join us in Burgundy, the gorgeous French region served by the conjoining Rhône and Saône. Amidst its rolling green hills, we find cobbled Medieval streets, glorious Gallo-Roman and Celtic antiquity and some of the most important Western churches and monasteries of the Middle Ages. Aside from its historical pedigree, this is a region where two great French passions collide: wine and food. Examine Burgundy’s centuries-old history of viticulture during a relaxed vineyard visit and tasting session.

Tue 13th – Tue 20th Jun 2017 Tue 12th – Tue 19th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Professor Tony King 8 days £2,395 (sgl supp £240; without flights £2,195)

• Gain new understanding of the siege of Alesia during a special presentation from a renowned local archaeologist during our tour

• Explore beautiful Lyon and the wonderful collections of the Musee GalloRomain

• View the temple of Augustus and Livia at Vienne: the best preserved Roman temple in France

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Lyon and transfer to our hotel in Dijon. Day Two We visit Châtillon-sur-Seine this morning to see the astonishing Vix krater, a 6th-century BC Greek bronze vessel found in an Iron Age aristocrat’s grave. We continue to Alésia, site of Caesar’s final Gallic victory, and its museum. We also view the Vercingetorix statue and then on to the Archéopark museum and reconstructions. Day Three We spend the morning in Autun, one of the wealthiest towns in Roman Gaul. We will visit the Musée Rolin, the theatre, town walls and gates, together with fascinating remains of a large Romano-Celtic temple. This afternoon, we continue to Bibracte, one of Gaul’s largest and most important hillforts.

The old town of Lyon, France. 56

Day Four We begin the day at Dijon Museum, with its display of wooden GalloRoman statues from Sources-de-laSeine. Leaving the city, we travel through wide, green expanses of Burgundy vineyard, with a brief wine tasting on the way to Nuits-StGeorges. Our hosts are the staff of Clos de Vougeot, a historic Grand Cru vineyard, and the smallest commune in the Cote d’Or. Once in Nuits-StGeorges, we visit the Roman town and Mithraic temple site, as well as the historical and archaeological museum. Day Five We head on to Lyon today, travelling via the communes of Chalon-surSaône and Cluny. At Chalon, once a busy Roman port, we visit the Musée Denon, rich with historical and prehistorical finds recovered from the River Saône. Continuing on to Cluny, we step into the medieval world, paying a visit to the impressive remains of the town’s Abbey, mother house of the Cluniac Order. Day Six We enjoy an entire day dedicated to exploring Lyon, France’s third-largest city. Discover the capital of the Three Gauls in the Gallo-Roman Museum, and the adjacent theatre and odeon. Early Christian churches and cathedral baptistery give us an insight into the importance of Lugdunum in late Roman times. The afternoon is spent exploring the aqueducts of the city,

Ancient temple of Janus.

We spend the morning in Vienne, visiting the near complete Temple of Augustus and Livia, the theatre and other remains of this wealthy Roman town on the banks of the river Rhône. unique in the Western Roman Empire for their sheer complexity and advanced engineering. Day Seven In the afternoon, we cross the river to St Romain-en-Gal, a suburb of Vienne that has seen extensive excavation. It now has a rich display of houses and mosaics on display, both in situ and in the new Gallo-Roman museum. Day Eight We enjoy some free time in Lyon on the morning of our final day, before transferring to the airport for our flight home or onward travel.

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Romans on the Rhône FRANCE

NEW

Châtillon-sur-Seine Alise-Sainte-Reine

The amphitheatre of Autun.

Dijon Nuits-Saint-Georges Bibracte

“T

he actual oppidum of Alesia was on a hill top, its position being so high that it was clearly impregnable except by blockade. ” Julius Caesar, The Gallic Wars

Chalon-sur-Saône

France

Cluny

Lyon Vienne

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Lyon Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 4 nights in an elegant 19th century hotel in Dijon, featuring refined, contemporary interiors, and just a short walk from Dijon Cathedral 3 nights in a to-be-confirmed hotel in Lyon, France’s third-largest city, situated at the junction of the Rhône and Saône

Romans

Historic Churches

GUIDE LECTURER Professor Tony King is a lecturer in archaeology at the University of Winchester and a specialist in Roman religion. He has excavated extensively in Britain and abroad, including Meonstoke Roman Villa, Pompeii and Volubilis. His interests spread across Roman Britain, Gaul and Italy. Tony is also an expert in the analysis of animal bones.

thinking of exploring the roman empire? You may also be interested in: Dalmatia & Dubrovnik.............p.34 Relaxed Provence......................p.50 Roman Germany.......................p.64 Pompeii & Amalfi...................p.128

Tour Code: Tue 13th - Tue 20th Jun (RRS17A) Tue 12th - Tue 19th Sep (RRS17B)

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BRITTANY Carnac & Beyond B

rittany offers a prehistoric landscape filled with standing stones and chambered tombs, many with fine carvings. These are some of the greatest megalithic monuments in the world. An entire day is dedicated to visiting Carnac, where stone rows writhe across the heather-clad countryside or stand in woodland wreathed in ivy and moss. Explore carefully-built passage graves where incised depictions of axes and bows mark the resting places of a select few of the wider Neolithic population.

Mon 28th Aug – Sun 3rd Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Nick Thorpe 7 days £2,175 (sgl supp £420; without rail travel £1,925)

Based in one hotel in Carnac, this gives a memorable insight into the rites and rituals of our Stone Age ancestors, not to mention the chance to soak up the unique Breton atmosphere.

• One of the richest prehistoric landscapes in Europe - from passage graves and chambered tombs to polished axes

• Includes a whole day at Carnac, where 10,000 stone ‘Menhirs’ have stood for over 4000 years

• Based in a single hotel, surrounded by the hills, heather and beaches of this characterful ‘Celtic’ French region

ITINER ARY Day One We travel by train to Vannes via Paris. Day Two We spend the morning in and around the fishing village of Locmariaquer. Megalithic monuments of the surrounding area include: the ManéLud Carnac mound, a large and prominent passage tomb with a central burial at the entrance to the village; the passage-tomb, Mané Rutuel, and the giant fallen stone known as the Grand Menhir Brisé. When intact, it stood over 20 metres high and weighed 280 tons. We end the day at the Table des Marchands, a passage grave with an exceptionally high burial chamber crowned by a huge capstone, decorated with a group of oxen with a plough — a wonderful glimpse back across millenia. Day Three We enjoy a private boat ride to the

island of Gavr’inis in the beautiful blue Gulf of Morbihan, with a large and important passage grave constructed around 3500 BC. The passage is decorated with carvings of axe heads, swirls and horned animals, and a bull appears on the gigantic capstone. En route to Ile de Conleau, we view the cromlech (stone circle) of Er-Lannic on its islet. One circle marches into the sea; the second has long since vanished beneath the waves... Visit the excellent archaeological museum in Vannes. Enjoy some free time in Vannes this afternoon. Day Four We visit various sites between Plouharnel and Erdeven, including the dolmen group Mané-Kerioned, which includes the impressive Crucuno dolmen and the passage graves of Mané-Groh and Rondossec. We continue to Carnac Prehistory Museum, the richest in the world for megalithic culture. The museum contains a wonderful array of artefacts ranging from Alpine jade axes and jewellery to exquisitely knapped arrowheads. Day Five We spend all day exploring the wonderful megalithic sites of Carnac with one of the site excavators.

Alignment of Menhir and Dolmen at Carnac.

Carnac’s fantastic rows of thousands of stones run for over three kilometres across the Breton countryside, dominating the landscape. Strewn amongst them are a variety of tombs in the forms of tumuli and singlechamber dolmens. We will visit the rows at Le Menec, and view the alignments of Kermario (‘House of the Dead’) and Kerlescan. After our picnic lunch, we will explore the passage grave at Kercado, and visit the menhir known as Le Géant du Manio. Day Six This morning we delve into the Le Rocher passage tomb before exploring the Arzon peninsula, on the south side of the Gulf of Morbihan. Here we make our final visit to the tumulus — the Petit Mont Cairn, dating back over six thousand years. Its burial chambers include carvings of axes, circles and serpentine lines. Day Seven We drive to Vannes for our train home, via Paris.

Beautiful gardens and walls in Vannes. 58

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Brittany: Carnac & Beyond FRANCE

GUIDE LECTURER

France

Prehistoric megalithic monument near Carnac, Brittany.

Erdeven

“T

he undoubtedly high antiquity, immense number, and reputed Celtic origin of the monuments which furish the following pages have rendered them objects of great interest to antiquaries.” Alexander Blair and Francis Ronalds, Sketches at Carnac, 1834

Vannes

Kermario

Kercado Carnac Locmariaquer Gavrinis

WHAT’S INCLUDED International Travel - Scheduled return train journeys London to Vannes via Paris Montparnasse Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Greeks

Romans

Hotels 6 nights in a relaxed hotel and spa in Carnac. Well-placed for visits to the Carnac stones and megaliths (and to the beach), the hotel enjoys a scenic situation on the Gulf of Morbihan.

Medieval

Dr Nick Thorpe is Senior Lecturer in Archaeology at The University of Winchester. He has published books and articles on prehistoric Wessex, Britain and Europe, burial practices, the origins of agriculture, warfare, ancient inventions and the archaeological fringe. His current fieldwork projects are in Somerset and Denmark.

curious about prehistoric rock art? You may also be interested in: The Ice Man & His World........p.124 Rock Art in Namibia................p.160 Foz Côa.....................................p.176 Sweden & Norway...................p.182

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: BRI17A

LANGUEDOC Cathars & Crusaders S

outhwest France was once a thriving and distinctive kingdom, the home of Catharism – an ascetic Christian sect that eschewed and threatened the power of Rome. In 1209 Pope Innocent III launched the Albigensian Crusade to eliminate the ‘heretics’ of Languedoc. Twenty years of fighting followed, leaving behind spectacular castles and abbeys, and fundamentally altering the religious landscapes of Medieval Europe.

Mon 4th – Mon 11th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Nick Slope 7 days £2,495 (sgl supp £345; without flights £2,315)

We explore Cathar cities and Catholic abbeys; grand ruinous castles perched on craggy hilltops, and the polished turrets of Carcassonne. Led by experts, this tour draws on the art, archaeology and written sources, delving into the deadly consequences of religious defiance in 13th century France.

• Ruined castles and deserted villages atop craggy hills, in beautiful green rolling landscapes

• Heretics and Holy War, the struggle for hearts and minds in Medieval France

• Stay within the walls of Carcassonne and in a restored 16th century castle in Couiza

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Toulouse, then drive to Béziers, a Cathar stronghold, it was the first city sacked during the Albigensian Crusade. Up to 20,000 townspeople perished here when the Abbot of Citeaux famously ordered Catholics to be massacred along with Cathars. We travel on to our hotel, within the walls of the ancient town of Carcassonne. Day Two We explore the wonderfully situated town of Minerve, which withstood a Catholic siege for six weeks before surrendering. We continue to Lastours, home to no fewer than four Cathar castles on a rocky ridge. Our steep walk is rewarded with spectacular views. Day Three We travel to the Cathar castle and village at Termes, on a promontory defended on three sides by deep

ravines. After a hard siege of the castle it fell to Simon de Montfort in 1210. We have special access to both parts of the Abbey at Lagrasse and are able to visit areas not usually open to the public. We spend an afternoon in Carcassonne. Occupied since Neolithic times, the city was fortified by the Romans 1,000 years before it became a Cathar stronghold. Day Four This morning we leave Carcassonne and head west to Fanjeaux. Here, we visit the village church, home of St Dominic, founder of the Catholic church’s Dominican order. We continue to Foix Castle on a rock dominating the town; we also visit the Abbey before driving to our hotel at Couiza, in the beautiful foothills of the Pyrenees.

The fairy-tale turrets of Carcassonne restored in the 19th century.

Day Five We explore Puivert this morning, a 12th century castle once owned by practising Cathars. We move on to the castle of Montségur, one of the most evocative and famous of all the Cathar sites, and the scene of a dramatic and tragic siege, which finally ended with the burning of 220 Cathars at the foot of the castle hill. We visit the castrum and museum here. Day Six This morning we pay a visit to Albi. The term Albigensian, used to describe heretics with dualist beliefs, derives from this town. We spend our afternoon in the Medieval citadel of Lavaur, defended by Cathar Lady Girauda during its siege in 1211, but taken by Simon de Montfort. A memorial marks the spot where Lady Girauda was killed. Day Seven We enjoy some free time to explore the Medieval heart of Toulouse, before our flight home.

Montségur Castle: the fall of the original Cathar fortress sparked bloody conflict, and legend has it the Cathars secreted ‘a great treasure’ within its walls.

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Languedoc: Cathars & Crusaders FRANCE Albi

La Tour Regine Surdespine and Quertinheux towers at Lastours, France.

Lavaur Toulouse

“I

f they choose to take refuge in house of whore, let them die like whores.” Abbot of Citreaux, on setting fire to the church of Magdalene, filled with Cathar refugees.

Foix

France Montpellier

Lastours Fanjeaux

GUIDE LECTURER

Minerve

Béziers

Carcassonne Lagrasse Termes Couiza

Montségur

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Montpellier Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Hotels 3 nights in a French farmhouse-style hotel in Carcassonne, a short walk from the medieval city 2 nights in a traditional hotel set in a 16th century stone castle in Couiza, with warm and rustic rooms

Nick Slope is an archaeologist and historian who specialises in the archaeology and history of the Southern Levant. He has taken part in many excavations both in the Levant and the UK from 1979 to the present day, as well as having spent some time at the British Schools of Archaeology in Jerusalem and Athens.

looking to explore the medieval world? Try our other Medieval tours: Hidden Florence & Siena........p.108 Apulia......................................p.122 Meet the Vikings.....................p.180 Over the Sea to Skye...............p.194

2 nights in an upscale, modern 5* hotel located in central Toulouse

Special Access

All Inclusive

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

Conflict

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Tour Code: LCR17A

H I DDEN PA RIS S

peed across the channel by Eurostar to explore a side of Paris rarely seen by tourists. The newly-conserved Roman remains hidden beneath the courtyard in front of Notre-Dame, underground crypts and miles of catacombs beneath the bustling streets. This is a very different vision of the ‘City of Light’: the secret archaeology tucked away amid late 19th century avenues and grand boulevards. No visit to Paris would be complete, however, without a trip to the Louvre to examine some key royal archaeological discoveries hidden among its galleries. Enjoy unrivalled special access to the Roman baths that lurk below the Medieval wonders of the Musée de Cluny. We also enjoy a specially arranged visit to St-Denis Archaeological Unit - which carries out ‘rescue archaeology operations’ each year, within the town’s boundaries.

Mon 2nd – Sun 8th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 7 days £2,695 (sgl supp £485; without trains £2,525)

• Go beyond the Parisian boulevards to the hidden medieval streets and secret sites closed to the public

• Dine in the Michelin-starred Tour d’Argent, believed to be the oldest restaurant in Paris - overlooking the Seine and Notre-Dame

• Spend six nights in a faultless luxury hotel in one of the most exclusive areas of historic Paris

ITINER ARY Day One We depart from London aboard the Eurostar, and glide into the Gare du Nord. After arriving at our hotel and checking in, we gather for an introductory exploration of the historic Marais district, venturing on foot through this, the oldest part of the city, where a 12th century fortress remains tucked away among fashionable streets. Day Two We visit the infamous Palais de Justice and, hidden within it, the royal SainteChapelle and former Revolution-era prison the Conciergerie. We end the day at the Carnavalet Museum, dedicated to the history of Paris. Today we explore hidden Paris properly, beginning at the Egouts. The sewers of Paris, are comprised of 2,000 km of dark passageways beneath the surface. Day Three This afternoon, we leave the city centre

behind with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, set in the leafy suburb of St-Germain-en-Laye, just west of Metropolitan Paris. We’ll begin the day with a Special Access visit to the St Denis Archaeological Unit, where a member of staff will introduce finds from this part of the city. Day Four The Roman and medieval past of Paris We end the day with a special meal at the Michelin starred Tour d’Argent, one of the oldest restaurants in Paris, with views out across the Seine to the towers of Notre Dame. continues to blend together as we visit the cathedral of Saint-Denis — built on the site of a former Gallo-Roman cemetery — after lunch. Day Five We start the day at the Arènes de Lutèce, site of the Roman amphitheatre. We continue to the snow white confection of Sacre Couer, and the nearby church of St Pierre, where a We end the day with a special evening visit to the great Musée de Louvre, avoiding the crowds of the day.

Interior of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Roman temple to Mars is tucked away within its holy grounds. The afternoon is spent in the hilltop Right Bank This is followed by Special Access to the Musée de Cluny in the afternoon, where we visit the Roman baths that lurk beneath the museum. neighbourhood of Montmartre. Here, we visit the atmospheric cemetery — Paris’ third-largest necropolis — and the Musée de Montmartre, housed in the oldest building in the area. Day Six We begin the day with a visit to the iconic French Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris. After exploring the medieval cathedral, we round off the afternoon with a visit to Paris’ ultimate hidden attraction — the subterranean Catacombes de Paris. Day Seven We leave Paris behind and speed northwards across the channel on our return to London.

The catacombs of Paris. 62

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Hidden Paris FRANCE

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: The Roman baths in Paris. Right: Unicorn tapestry.

“H

e who contemplates the depths of Paris is seized with vertigo. Nothing is more fantastic. Nothing is more tragic. Nothing is more sublime.” Victor Hugo

WHAT’S INCLUDED Trains - Scheduled return trains from London to Paris Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Greeks

Hotels 6 nights in a luxurious and historic hotel in the heart of Paris, facing the Tuileries Gardens, and just a few steps away from many sites

Romans

Medieval

looking for an exclusive hidden tour? You may also be interested in: Hidden Berlin............................ p.66 Hidden Amsterdam................... p.88 Hidden Rome.......................... p.100 Hidden Venice......................... p.104 Hidden Florence & Siena........ p.108

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: HPA17A

ROMAN GERMANY In 9AD the largest army of the Roman Empire was amassed along the Rhine frontier, preparing to march into what the historian Tacitus described as ‘the bristling forests and foul swamps’ of Germany. They suffered a huge and unprecedented defeat. In response, the Limes was constructed - a defence system of bank, ditch, wall, towers and forts built along the Rhine and Danube. Safe behind this border, Roman cities prospered. Left behind are grand villas and exquisite mosaics. This is a delightful tour in a beautiful and accessible part of Europe often overlooked by tourists.

Sun 28th May – Tue 6th Jun 2017 Sun 3rd – Tue 12th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Tony Wilmott 10 days £2,495 (sgl supp £240; without flights £2,345)

• Explore a frontier five times longer than Hadrian’s Wall, the Rhine and Danube - the longest structure Europe has ever seen

• Meet military history at its most exciting, in unexpectedly beautiful countryside and handsome German cities

• Follow the story of early Roman pioneers and entrepreneurs through to the creation of an Imperial capital at Trier

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Cologne via Eurostar. Day Two We drive north to Xanten where the Roman town of Colonia Ulpia Traiana has been reconstructed, controversially overlying the archaeological remains. Day Three We explore the remarkable and prolific remains of Roman Cologne. This was the capital of the province of Germania Inferior and we visit the excellent collections of the RömischGermanisches Museum, which was built on the site of an opulent Roman villa. After lunch we visit the governor’s residence (the Praetorium) and walk along the Roman sewers. Day Four Today we pay a visit to the opulent Ahrweiler villa where the fortuitous discovery of a large

‘executive’ house, possibly the home of a local official, has been transformed into an excellent museum. On to Boppard, a charming, mostly medieval village on the Rhine, where we seek out the remains of the walls and towers of the late Roman fortifications. We travel by boat on the Rhine to our next hotel in Braubach. Day Five We reach the Limes – a 500km boundary of cleared land fortified with great banks and ditches overlooked by 900 watchtowers and patrolled from 60 forts backed up by the legionary bases. We visit the reconstructed watchtower at Zugmantel and then on to Saalburg. Day Six A beautiful drive along the Rhine, dotted with castles and pretty towns, to Mainz. This was the capital of Germania Superior, its administrative centre and, at times, a double legionary base. This afternoon we visit the Schiffahrtsmuseum for a special guided tour of the excavated ships and their reconstructions. We continue to Trier.

Portrait found under Trier Cathedral. 64

Day Seven Today is our first day in imperial Roman Trier, one of the Late Roman capital cities of the Western Empire which is now an iconic German Rhineland town.

The ancient market well was erected in 1526.

We begin with the Episcopal museum and Constantine’s basilica, and then the packed galleries of the Rheinisches Landesmuseum. Day Eight This morning, we visit the remains of Trier’s Amphitheatre set into the hillside, followed by a visit to Porta Nigra. On to the funerary monument of Igel, decorated with remarkable detail of wool merchants’ lives. We visit the Villa Nennig, with a collection of mosaics, followed by the enterprising reconstruction of the Villa Borg. Day Nine We drive to Aachen, the capital of Charlemagne’s renewed Roman Empire of the 8th century. We visit the treasury, the richest in western Europe with gifts and acquisitions made by Holy Roman Emperors throughout the Middle Ages. We continue to Dom. Day Ten Before returning home, we enjoy a final visit to the Gothic Rathaus. The town hall began its life as part of the early medieval palace complex and was the audience chamber of Charlemagne himself.

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Roman Germany GERMANY Trier, the Roman Porta Nigra.

Germany

Xanten

Cologne

“G Tacitus

reat empires are not maintained by timidity.”

Braubach Aachen

Saalburg and Feldberg Boppard Mainz

Trier Villa Borg / Villa Nennig

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return train journeys London to Cologne Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

By Rail

Romans

Hotels 3 nights in a centrally located hotel in Cologne, with sleek, modern rooms 2 nights in a charming half-timbered inn in Braubach 3 nights in a Parisian boulevard-style 19th century hotel in Trier 1 night in a 5* hotel in an elegant, neoclassical-inspired hotel in Aachen

Medieval

Conflict

Historic Churches

GUIDE LECTURER Tony Wilmott is an archaeologist specialising in the Roman and medieval period, with interests in frontiers and military architecture. He has travelled widely in Syria and the Middle East. Currently he is working on the analysis of work at Chester Roman Amphitheatre and Whitby Abbey. Tony won the Current Archaeology Archaeologist of the Year award in 2012.

curious about exploring the roman empire? You may also be interested in: Dalmatia & Dubrovnik..............p.34 Relaxed Provence.......................p.50 From Athens to Istanbul............p.82 Classical Sicily.........................p.106 Pompeii & Amalfi....................p.128

Tour Code: Sun 28th May - Tue 6th Jun (GER17A) Sun 3rd - Tue 12th Sep (GER17B)

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H I DDEN BER LI N H

ome to stunning monuments, architecture and museums, Berlin is an icon of 20th century history. Yet beyond the tourist hotspots, there is an even more intriguing Berlin to explore. Join us in uncovering a lesser known past: take a private tour of the sprawling Hohenschönhausen Jail; and discover the fully story behind the iconic Berlin Wall. Archaeologist and Berlin resident, Nick Jackson, leads this exclusive tour as we explore the highs and lows of a city torn apart... and pieced back together again. This tour is a must for those wishing to get at the heart of Berlin’s dynamic and hidden history as well as its finest gastronomic delights.

Mon 5th – Sat 10th Jun 2017 Mon 21st – Sat 26th Aug 2017 Guide Lecturer: Nicholas Jackson 6 days £2,695 (sgl supp £325; without flights £2,495)

• Uncover sites behind Berlin’s imperial facade, such as Tempelhof airport • Enjoy a special evening meal on top of the Reichstag building • Stay in a 5* hotel in central Berlin • Enjoy excellent food paired with classical music in the unique setting of Berlin’s historic Charlottenburg Palace Orangery

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Berlin and enjoy an orientation walking tour of the sites. Day Two We begin the day with a visit to Museum Island, the cultural heart of Berlin. In the Neues Museum we marvel at Germany’s more ancient history, including Late Bronze Age ‘Berlin Golden Hat’ and also Heinrich Schliemann’s collection from his investigations at Troy. We spend the afternoon at the Pergamon Museum. Day Three We spend the day in Brandenburg. Our first stop is the State Archaeological Museum, where we meet with a local archaeologist. Originally a Dominican monastery. It houses artefacts from the Palaeolithic era to the 20th century.

This afternoon, we trace the history of early Prussia through its Gothic brick architecture, including the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. Day Four Behind the wall as we explore the site of the old GDR; we begin at Tempelhof, Berlin’s oldest airport (est. 1923) which was redesigned by Nazi architect Ernst Sagebiel as a gateway to Hitler’s ‘World Capital.’ Day Five On to Berlin’s most recent history. We have a specially arranged tour of the Berlin Wall where we discover stories of hope and betrayal, as residents of East Germany attempted to tunnel their way to freedom.

Church of St Peter and Paul.

We also take a private tour of Hohenschönhausen Jail this afternoon, where the Stasi (one of the most notorious intelligence services during the Cold War) detained their prisoners. Day Six This morning we take a walking tour of World War II Berlin and make our way to the German Resistance Memorial centre, where resistance fighters were executed in 1944. Claus von Stauffenberg was the army officer who headed the 20th July attempt to assassinate Hitler and over throw the Nazis. He was executed here shortly after the plan failed. We return home.

The now-abandoned Tempelhof Airport. 66

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Hidden Berlin GERMANY

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: Glazed siliceous brick wall fragment from Palace of Persian king Darius. Right; Pergamon museum.

Nick Jackson is an archaeologist specialising in the Bronze Age. Nick graduated in Archaeology at University College London in 1989 and excavated widely in the Near East for nearly a decade. He has lived in Berlin for many years and has supervised excavations in Jordan, Syria and Turkey.

“T

hus it transpired that even Berlin could be mysterious. Within the linden’s bloom the streetlight winks. A dark and honeyed hush envelops us.” Nabokov, The Gift

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Berlin Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Greeks

Hotels 5 nights in a hotel located on Berlin’s Gendarnmenmarkt, only a stone’s throw away from the Friedrichstrasse shopping street

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

curious about our other hidden tours? You may also be interested in: Hidden Paris.............................p.62 Hidden Amsterdam...................p.88 Hidden Rome...........................p.100 Hidden Venice.........................p.104

Tour Code: Mon 5th - Sat 10th Jun (HBE17A) Mon 21st - Sat 26th Aug (HBE17B)

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greece

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THE PELOPONNESE T

his is an odyssey through the great sites of Ancient Greece: set across the backdrop of a rich and varied natural landscape. Beginning in Athens, we walk amongst the Acropolis and the Agora - where merchants were, we admire the monuments of Pericles and much more. We then journey as the ancients did, to seek the advice of the great oracle at Delphi, before continuing into the ruggedly beautiful Peloponnesian hills.

Homer and Beyond

our Expert Guide, Dr Rita Roussos, as she traces the story of Ancient Join Greece from the Bronze Age to Classical glory. The holiday for anyone

Mon 3rd – Fri 14th Apr 2017 Mon 4th – Fri 15th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Rita Roussos 12 days £2,695 (sgl supp £270; without flights £2,455)

who has ever dreamed of standing at the starting line of the ancient Olympics, debating with Socrates, or following in the footsteps of Hercules.

• Visit the Corinth Museum and enjoy a specially arranged talk by the Museum Curator

• The land of Homer’s heroes and the great Bronze Age citadels from which they came

• The ‘big names’ of Classical Greece: Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Corinth

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Athens. Day Two We spend the day on foot in ancient Athens, founded, according to legend, by King Theseus (best known for his Minotaur slaying heroics in Crete). We climb to the Acropolis, to visit the Parthenon, Theatre of Dionysus and Temple of Athena. This afternoon, we travel to the Acropolis Museum built to house every artefact found at the Acropolis. Day Three We continue our exploration of Athens with a walk through the sites of the Agora. This was the political and commercial heart of ancient Athens where Socrates stood trial and freeborn male Athenian citizens could come to cast their vote. After lunch we enjoy our first drive through the Peloponnesian hills to our hotel at Delphi.

The temple of Apollo at Corinth. 70

Day Four Spend a day at the Panhellenic Sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi. The oracle was given by a priestess called the Pythia who sat over a chasm in the inner sanctum and, inhaling the vapours which issued from it, uttered prophecies in a trance. Day Five We explore Olympia, home of the first and greatest Panhellenic Games and the most important religious centre in the 8th century BC. The major festivals here provided opportunities for the meeting of representatives from the Greek states. Day Six We enjoy a more relaxed day, beginning at the Museum at Khora which houses finds from Pylos. Afterward the afternoon is free. You could enjoy an optional boat trip in the bay. Day Seven A day in Messene, one of the most beautiful ancient cities in Greece. Excavations at the city have continued for over a century, revealing wellpreserved stadium and odeon and many other buildings. Day Eight We visit the ruins of the Byzantine town of Mistra. Perched on the slopes of a hill the town has both some of the finest examples of 14th and 15th century architecture in Greece, and some of the beautiful views.

The ancient Agora of Athens.

Day Nine We visit the Argive Heraion, a sanctuary of Hera, with wonderful vistas across the Argive plain. We continue to Nemea, famously where Hercules slew a great mountain lion. End the day at the magnificent theatre of Epidaurus. Day Ten We explore the great Bronze Age hilltop site of Mycenae - according to Greek tradition, capital of King Agamemnon. Excavations support Homer’s claim of a city ‘well built and rich in gold’. We continue to the lovely town of Nafplion to visit the museum. Day Eleven We return to Athens and spend the morning at the National Museum. Day Twelve We travel to Corinth where we visit the Museum and enjoy a specially arranged talk by the Museum Curator. We return home today.

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The Peloponnese: Homer and Beyond GREECE

GUIDE LECTURER

Grave Circle A in Mycenae is a 16th century BC royal cemetery situated to the south of the Lion Gate.

“W

ith silver spears you may conquer the world.” Oracle at Delphi, to Philip II of Macedon

Delphi

Corinth Nemea Mycenae Argive Heraion

Olympia

Palace of Nestor Pylos Methoni

Athens

Epidavros Nafplion

Greece Messene Mistra Kalamata

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Athens Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Low Single Supplement

Hotels 3 nights in a fashionable Athens hotel 1 night in a family-run hotel in Delphi 1 night in a cosy hotel in Olympia 2 nights in a villa-style hotel in Pylos 1 night in a hotel in historic Mystra 3 nights in a hillside hotel in Mykenes

Prehistory

Greeks

Romans

Great Cities

Dr Rita Roussos is a native Athenian who grew up in California. She studied Classical Languages at the University of California, Berkeley and completed her PhD in History of Art at the Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London. For many years she was Professor of Art History and Classical Archaeology at the American University of Athens.

looking for an iconic archaeology adventure? You may also be interested in: Crete & Santorini......................p.74 Pompeii & Herculaneum...........p.98 Classical Sicily........................ p.106 Peru & the Nazca Lines.......... p.164

Historic Churches

Tour Code: Mon 3rd - Fri 14th Apr (PEL17A) Mon 15th - Fri 15th Sep (PEL17B)

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THESSALONIKI F

ounded in 315 BC, Thessaloniki is a city whose historical importance and legacy can be said to rival that of Athens. In antiquity, the city served as both Macedonian and Roman capital. The streets of Thessaloniki are rich in the monuments of this illustrious past; the palace and mausoleum of Emperor Galerius, Byzantine walls, ancient Orthodox churches, and Ottoman mosques. Thessaloniki is also home to numerous churches and mighty city walls from the Byzantine period. On tour, we enjoy special access to glorious frescoes of the Church of St Nicholas Orfanos. We also venture beyond the city walls to picturesque ancient Dion and the Enipeas Ravine, at the foot of Mount Olympus.

Tue 4th – Mon 10th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Christina Hatzmichael Whitley 7 days £2,250 (sgl supp £290; without flights £1,995)

• Discover a selection of vibrant Byzantine churches and a historic old town • Visit ancient Dion, extensively excavated and site of a temple to Zeus • Enjoy six nights in one of the best hotels in the city - perfect for exploring • We enjoy special access in Ancient Mieza to the Macedonian tombs found along the road which once led from Pella to Mieza

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Thessaloniki. Day Two We spend a full day exploring Thessalonki. Beginning at the Agora and Forum. We then delve into the city’s Roman imperial past at the palace complex of Galerius, built around 300 AD. Here, we view the Arch of Galerius, intended as a mausoleum to the Emperor. We then visit the Museum of Byzantine Culture. We also visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki with its vast collections from many periods. Day Three We drive to Pella, second Macedonian capital, only discovered in the 1950s. The birthplace of both Philip II and Alexander the Great, Pella is

renowned for its exceptional mosaics, made from carefully-selected natural pebbles. We continue to the original capital, Verghina, where the ‘great tumulus’ mounds are believed by some to contain the remains of the great Macedonian kings.

Rotunda of the Emperor Galerius, built in the early 4th century AD.

We have special access to the remarkable Macedonian painted tombs, and view the equally beautiful gold and precious grave goods, displayed in the site museum.

during investigations. Return to Thessaloniki and walk along the city walls ending the day with a visit to Agios Dimitrios church. We also visit the great Church of Agios Dimitrios.

Day Four This morning we drive to Olynthos, a site that is considered as the ‘Pompeii of Classical Greece.’ The site has been extensively excavated since the 1920s, and tells us much about every day life (and town planning) in archaic and Classical Greece. We visit the museum here that houses the finds uncovered

Day Five We drive to Veria, a typical town whose story reflects the turbulent history of the region, with Christian, Jewish and Ottoman monuments. Veria was home to one of the oldest Jewish communities in Macedonia. We visit the synagogue and the parish church. We return to Thessaloniki and see the church of Saint Nicolas Orfanou. Day Six Drive out to ancient Dion, seated on the borders of Thessaly at the foot of Mount Olympus. This was the site of an important temple dedicated to Zeus and has been extensively excavated. We shall take a short walk in the Enipeas Ravine, a beautiful forested valley where one can easily imagine the Greek gods lounging among the waterfalls and pools...

Remains of the great walls of Thessaloniki, which for centuries encircled the city protecting it from siege and invasion.

Day Seven Free time in Thessaloniki this morning before we return home.

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Thessaloniki GREECE

GUIDE LECTURER

Mosaic detail from the interior of the Galerius Rotunda. Right; The ancient ruins of Dion.

Dr Christina Hatzimichael Whitley is Tutor in Greek Archaeology at the Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning (LEARN). She specialises in Minoan Crete and is co-director of the Praisos survey and excavation Project (Crete). She is Greek, but lives with her family in Cardiff and speaks English fluently.

“S

he had an extraordinary passion for her subject. No question was batted away - always approachable. Being born, and growing up, in the area meant she had all manner of contacts, which she used to our benefit.” Guest in 2016 describing our Guide Lecturer.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Thessaloniki Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Just One Hotel

Cultural

Hotels 6 nights in a large 5* hotel situated in the centre of Thessaloniki, close to the site of the ancient Agora

Greeks

Romans

Great Cities

interested in other journeys into the classical world? You may be interested in: Relaxed Provence.......................p.50 Classical Sicily..........................p.106 Pompeii & Amalfi.....................p.128 Roman Lusitania......................p.170

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: TAX17A

CRETE & SANTORINI Rise & Fall of Minoan Civilisation

he Minoans are best known for their huge labyrinthine ‘palaces’ - the greatest of which, at Knossos, was supposedly where Theseus slew the Minotaur. Knossos and all of the Minoan sites we visit have their own unique and characteristic charm and elegance, demonstrated in a lively and free artistic expression, and an obvious delight in realistic decoration. Begin on the beautiful, tiny island of Santorini, ‘Pompeii of the Aegean’, buried suddenly during the cataclysmic eruption of Thera - which signalled the ‘beginning of the end’ of Minoan civilization. In Crete we continue to trace the story of the Minoans, whose writing, organization and ambition had a profound influence on the development of ancient Greece, and thus the western world.

Thu 18th - Thu 25th Apr 2017 Tue 9th - Tue 16th May 2017 Tue 12th - Tue 19th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Sandy MacGilivray Tue 26th Sep - Tue 3rd Oct 2017 Tue 10th - Tue 17th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Christina Hatzimichael Whitley 8 days May, Sep & Oct: £2,450 (sgl supp £230; without flights £2,150)

• Enjoy special access to the Minoan palace complex of

Malia,with its great courtyards, crypts and circular granaries

• Wander the recently re-opened city of Akrotiri, the ‘Pompeii of the Aegean’ — buried and preserved by the eruption of 1500 BC.

• Elegant sites, wild-flowers, expert guides and the warm waters of the Mediterranean... Who could ask for more?

ITINER ARYED Day One We arrive in Santorini. Day Two We begin our first full day on the lovely island of Santorini at the Prehistoric Museum in Fira, which houses the wall-paintings from the Minoan mansion at Akrotiri. We continue to Akrotiri. Destroyed by a catastrophic volcanic eruption in 1500BC, the city is reminiscent of Pompeii, with houses preserved up to three storeys high. Day Three We visit the ancient city of Thera, built 360m above sea level. The site has been under excavation since 1904, and findings from the city have contributed immensely to our understanding of Minoan culture and history. In the afternoon we visit Panagia Episkopi. We travel by catamaran to Heraklion, where we arrive in time for dinner.

Day Four We visit the Bronze Age palace site of Knossos, a pivotal site of Bronze Age Greece. Excavations have been overseen by the British School at Athens and the Greek authorities for many years. The Curator of the British School of Athens will offer a privileged introduction to the school’s latest findings, discuss the work of the school and give a tour of the study centre at Knossos. We continue to the Minoan house at Vathypetro with its elaborate shrine and well-preserved wine press. We return to Heraklion and the Heraklion Museum, with its exquisite jewellery and brightly-coloured wall paintings. Day Five We enjoy a morning at the important Graeco-Roman site of Gortyn. The site is best-known for its collection of 5th century stone blocks, inscribed with the law codes of classical Greece. We return to the Minoan era at the elegant ‘palace’ at Phaistos, which dominates the fertile plain of the Mesara. Famous finds include thousands of documents, some inscribed with the earliest known occurrence of the (still undeciphered) writing of the Minoans - Linear A script. We continue to Ayia Triadha, a grand but ruinous Bronze Age villa. Lavish finds include a cache of copper ingots, bronze figurines and three elaborately-carved stone vessels.

Ancient pots at the Heraklion museum.

Day Six Our day begins with a special visit to the palace of Malia, a huge Minoan complex. We visit the well-preserved Minoan town of Gournia on the northern coast. The remains are clustered around the sides of a hill which is crowned by a ‘palace’. The majority of the houses are on the east slope, built up against each other along paved and stepped streets. This afternoon, you have the option of a boat trip to the haunting and evocative island of Spinalonga, site of a former leper colony. Day Seven We travel by fishing boat to the tiny island of Mochlos, once a peninsula, on which stood an important Minoan town. We walk up to the beautifully situated ruins of Chamaizi, most famous for a Middle Minoan building located on the summit of the hill. We enjoy lunch in a seaside taverna before returning to our hotel. Day Eight We return home today.

View from Oia over the caldera at Santorini. 74

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Crete & Santorini GREECE The Bronze Age Palace at Knossos, partly reconstructed in the bright colours of the original fragments.

“E

vans found everything he hoped for on the Kephala hill... the Labyrinth of Daedalus, built to house a minotaur; the palace of King Minos...” The discovery of Knossos from ‘Minotaur’, Alexander MacGillivray

Fira Santorini Pyrgos Santorini Heraklion Malia Spinalonga Vathypetro Knossos

Gournia

Crete Timpaki

Akrotiri

Mochlos

Palace of Phaistos Gortyn

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Santorini; Heraklion to London Tour Managers Local Travel - Private a/c coach, boat & catamaran Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 2 nights in a hotel on the beautiful Cycladic island of Santorini 5 nights in a boutique hotel set above the old city harbour of Heraklion, with dramatic views of the former Venetian fortress

Prehistory

Greeks

Romans

GUIDE LECTURERS Dr Christina Hatzimichael Whitley is Tutor in Greek Archaeology at the Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning (LEARN). She specialises in Minoan Crete and is co-director of the Praisos Survey and Excavation Project (Crete). She is Greek, but lives with her family in Cardiff and speaks English fluently.

Dr Sandy MacGillivray is an archaeologist specialising in the Aegean Bronze Age, and the civilisations of Crete, the Cyclades and mainland Greece during this period. He has excavated at Sparta and Paros in Greece, and at Knossos in Crete, and he co-directed excavations at Palaikastro.

Tour Codes: Tue 9th - Tue 16th May (CRE17A) Thu 18th - Thu 25th Apr (CRE17B) Tue 12th - Tue 19 Sep (CRE17C) Tue 26th Sep - Tue 3rd Oct (CRE17D) Tue 10th - Tue 17th Oct (CRE17E)

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WILD THRACE E

ast of Thessaloniki are the mountains and plains of Thrace. Its ancient kingdoms were alternately at war with and allied to Persians, Greeks and Macedonians. Discover the strategic cities that grew up in the wake of passing conquerors; Phillipi, Mesembria with its Romano-Thracian chariot burials, and catch a glimpse of the city of Amphipolis. Thrace’s landmark archaeological sites and Byzantine, Medieval, and Ottoman monuments add to its rich cultural heritage. This wild land is notable for the peaceful co-existence of Christian and Muslim traditions.

Tue 5th – Wed 13th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Christina Hatzmichael Whitley 9 days £2,395 (sgl supp £180; without flights £2,095)

• Discover traces of Roman, Medieval and Ottoman history • Explore the costal ruins of Mesembria, the ancient Greek polis of Zone • Visit the famous Classical sanctuary of the Great Gods in Samothrace • Enjoy special access to magnificent decorated Thracian tombs at Mikri Doxipara-Zoni

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Thessaloniki via the much heralded site of Amphipolis. This was once Athens’ main power base on the Thracian coast. Day Two We visit the site of Kavala, an important Roman city and later a Byzantine fortress. The town is famous for its large, originally Roman, aqueduct which was rebuilt by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. We continue to Phillipi and its museum. This was an important early Christian centre, right up to the 14th century. Remains here include an early Christian basilica and a good stretch of the Via Egnatia. Day Three We travel over the water to the island of Thasos and visit the remains of the classical city, acropolis and the Limenas Museum. This was originally a Parian colony, enriched

Village of Chora on Samothrace Island. 76

by its gold and silver mines. Marble was the island’s other commodity, and some of its beaches are composed of white marble sand. Day Four We explore Abdera, once an important member of the Delian League. The city was heavily involved in the politics of the Persian and Peloponnesian Wars. After lunch we explore the picturesque Xanthi old town, once an important trading city, which played a big part in the wealthy Balkan tobacco trade. Happily, much of the traditional architecture has survived here. Day Five We head east to Komotini with its Byzantine fortress and archaeological museum. We continue to Alexandroupolis, named not for Alexander the Great, but Alexander I, King of Greece. The King succumbed to the effects of a monkey bite, dying at the age of 27. We catch a ferry to Samothrace this afternoon. Day Six We spend the morning exploring the famous Classical sanctuary of the Great Gods on Samothrace. This was one of the most important religious complexes in Greece, set up in honour of the “Great Gods” of Samothrace before the arrival of Greek colonists. We also visit Choravillage, which is now the capital of the island. It is dominated by the ruins of an

Remains of Ancient Greece near Amphipolis.

imposing castle which was built by the Galluzzi family in the 14th century. Day Seven We visit Didymoteicho, the birthplace of several Byzantine Emperors, and scene of the first Ottoman Turkish victory in Europe. A number of fine Ottoman monuments survive, including the Ҫelebi Sultan Mehmet Mosque built by Mehmet the Conqueror. Day Eight We have special access to the decorated tombs of Mikri Doxipara Zoni tumuli – a series of burial mounds dating to the Roman period. We explore the beautifully situated ruins at Mesembria, on the coast near the mouth of the stream Shabla Dere. Remains here include a small sanctuary of Demeter and a temple of Apollo, and an important find - a set of inscribed potsherds bearing the first decipherable texts in the Thracian language. Day Nine We return home.

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Wild Thrace GREECE

GUIDE LECTURER

The Sanctuary of the Great Gods, on the island of Samothrace.

“A

great opportunity to visit very important sites off the usual tourist trail.” Guest in 2016

Xanthi Kavala

Abdera

Komotini Alexandroupolis Mesembria

Amphipolis Thasos

Sanctuary of the Great Gods

Samothrace

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Thessaloniki; Alexandroupolis to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 4 nights in central Kavala, in a hotel boasting panoramic views from its rooftop lounge 1 night in a simplistic hotel situated on rugged Samothrace 3 nights in Astir Egnatia Alexandroupolis, in a hotel located among pine forest

Greeks

Medieval

interested in exploring the classical world? You may also be interested in: Relaxed Provence.......................p.50 Classical Sicily..........................p.106 Pompeii & Amalfi.....................p.128 Roman Lusitania......................p.170

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: WEI17B

ATHENS & the Glories of Pericles P

ericles was Greece’s most prominent and influential Greek statesman and orator. Join us and explore Athens as he knew it - during the Golden Age. Athens is often referred to as the world’s ancient capital - iconic monuments lie moments away from fascinating museums and endless ancient landmarks. The centre of Athens is, in itself, an open-air museum... Join us at the Acropolis and the agora - where merchants haggled and great philosophers came to debate; then journey, just as the ancients did, to the great oracle at Delphi, in the vertiginous green hills above the city. Lead by one of our most popular Guide Lecturers, this tour is the perfect followup to those who have travelled with Andante to Sicily, Pompeii or Crete.

Mon 18th – Sat 23rd Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Christina Hatzmichael Whitley 6 days £1,845 (sgl supp £185; without flights £1,595)

• Explore the sites and monuments - the great and the little-known - that made Athens the centre of the Classical Greek world

• Beyond Athens we travel to beautiful Delphi, and the site of Eleusis, where the cult of the goddess Demeter existed for centuries

• Based in one very comfortable hotel in the centre of Athens, in easy walking distance of the Old Town

ITINER ARY Day One Upon arriving in Athens, enjoy a free afternoon to relax and get to know the city. Day Two Our first full day will be dedicated to Athens and its rich history. We will spend all day here, visiting the splendid Acropolis Museum, to set the archaeological background for our tour. This afternoon, we explore the key sites of the Acropolis, beginning with the immense Propylaea. This monumental gateway to the Acropolis was the culmination of the Sacred Way, which led from Eleusis to Athens. The gate has controlled access to the Acropolis since the days of Pericles himself. On passing through it, we are immediately confronted with the famous Caryatids on the porch of the neighbouring Erechtheion, a temple dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. Of course, the highlight of the Acropolis

Ancient Eleusis. 78

is the enormous Parthenon itself — the pinnacle of the Periclean building programme, it was famously dedicated to the city’s patron goddess Athena. The views from here are stunning — picture-perfect panoramas in every direction... Day Three We enjoy a pleasant journey out to Delphi, located on the spur of Mount Parnassus. We view the extensive archaeological remains of the impressive classical site, most famous as the site of the Pythian oracle at the Sanctuary of Apollo. The extant temple ruins date to the 4th century BC. The Pythia uttered prophecies, which were believed to come direct from Apollo and the site’s importance was such that Pericles led Athens against Sparta in a brief war over who should hold soverign rights on the oracle. Day Four We return to Athens, where we continue our exploration of the city’s ancient sites. We visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, an enormous temple with unusually tall columns, many of which are still standing. We continue to the Roman Agora, where one of the most unique pieces is the Tower of the Winds, and Hadrian’s Library, which once housed thousands of scrolls and other documents. After lunch, we travel to Philopappos Hill. Home to the twelfth century Byzantine Church of St. Dimitrios Loumbardiaris with

Mycenaean art pottery.

its fine frescoes, and the tomb of Philipappos, the ancient mausoleum of the prominent Roman consul and administrator. Day Five We spend the morning at Eleusis, birthplace of the playwright Aeschylus and well-known as the location of the Eleusinian Mysteries. The on-site museum contains superb examples of Greek statues and artefacts from the area. We return to Athens this afternoon, and enjoy a special introduction to the fantastic Cycladic Art Museum. Its notable collection of artefacts, from the mainland and Greek islands, includes the marvellous figurines of the Cyclades and some cruciform figurines from Cyprus. Day Six We return home today.

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Athens & The Glories of Pericles GREECE

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

The Parthenon,a former temple, on the Athenian Acropolis.

“W

hat you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” Pericles

Delphi

Greece

Eleusis Athens

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Athens Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 5 nights spent in a modern city hotel conveniently located in central Athens. This hotel offers views of the Parthenon from the rooftop garden and is only a short walk from the Plaka, the old quarter of the city.

Just One Hotel

Greeks

Romans

already travelled with christina to athens? She is also leading tours to... Thessaloniki............................... p.72 Crete & Santorini...................... p.74 Wild Thrace............................... p.76

Great Cities

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Tour Code: AGP17B

the cyclades by Gulet us as we take a meandering route around the Cyclades islands by gulet. Join Discover atmospheric archaeological sites amidst rugged, sun-drenched

outcrops of rock, which stand within sparkling azure seas. Travel to the sacred island of Delos, mythical birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis. Standing amongst this sprawling ruin, we can easily imagine the magnificent city that once was. Santorini’s multicoloured cliffs are certain to capture your imagination, as will the fascinating Minoan site of Akrotiri. Aside from our archaeological pursuits, we make sure to reserve time for a dip in the beautiful azure sea.

Sat 30th Sep - Tue 10th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Sandy MacGillivray Wed 11th - Sat 21st Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Rita Roussos 11 days £3,995 (sgl supp £2,500; without flights £3,665)

• Gulet cruising allows you to experience a completely different side to the Cyclades Islands. Enjoy a friendly and informal atmosphere on board - as each tour is limited to a maximum of 18 guests

• Explore the Terrace of the Lions, dedicated to Apollo; and visit the ancient and mysterious Castle of Andros

• Enjoy dinner overlooking the illuminated temples of Cape Sounion ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Santorini. Day Two Our day begins with breakfast overlooking the Caldera. We visit the ancient city of Thera, a site under excavation since 1904. We continue to Akrotiri: destroyed by a catastrophic volcanic eruption in 1,500 BC. After lunch, you can enjoy a free afternoon in Santorini or join your guide for a walking excursion tour. Day Three We spend most of our third day at the hilly island of Ios, heading to the eastern side of the island to visit the remains of what is thought to be a Roman Aqueduct. Afterwards, we sail to the trio of islands that make up

beautiful, little-known Koufonisia, for a late afternoon swim in the beautiful sun-bathed turquoise waters and grottoes of the islands. Day Four We enjoy a full day in Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades. We visit the interesting Archaeological Museum of Naxos and the Mycenean Tholos tomb at Koronida. We also examine two colossal unfinished ancient kouroi sculptures, lying near quarries close to the villages of Melanes and Apollonas. Day Five We continue exploring Naxos today. A number of ancient sanctuaries still survive here, including: the Sanctuaries of Dionysus and Demeter. We proceed to the never finished Temple of Apollo, erected by the tyrant Lygdamis in the 6th century. Day Six & Seven We spend two days exploring the highlights of Delos, where myth held that Leto gave birth to the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. We visit the Theatre District and the Maritime Quarter, where we find Roman and Hellenistic era houses with beautiful mosaics. We also explore the iconic Sanctuary of Apollo and Terrace of the Lions, with its glittering marble statues.

Temple of Demeter, Naxos Island. 80

Day Eight We visit Syros — one of the smallest islands of the Cyclades and

Ancient Thera, known today as the island of Santorini.

discover the Bronze Age cemetery site of Chalandriani. Later, we sail to Andros via Gyaros, an unpopulated island which served as a place of exile in the days of the Roman and Byzantine empires. We sail to Cape Sounion for dinner overlooking the Illuminated Temples. Day Nine We explore Andros this morning and also enjoy a walking tour of the island’s main town of Chora — a mix of narrow alleys, Neoclassical buildings, museums, and stone walkways — and the Venetian fortification of Pano Kastro before dinner in the evening. Day Ten We enjoy our final full day on charming Kea. The island is characterised by its rocky spires, verdant orchard-filled valleys, olive groves, and excellent walking trails. Day Eleven We return home.

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NEW

The Cyclades GREECE

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURERS

Above - Cape Sounion; Ruins of an ancient Greek temple of Poseidon. Right: Island hopping by gulet.

Dr Sandy MacGillivray is an archaeologist specialising in the Aegean Bronze Age, and the civilisations of Crete, the Cyclades and mainland Greece during this period. He has excavated at Sparta, Paros and Kythnos, in Greece, and at Knossos in Crete, and he co-directed excavations at Palaikastro.

“T

he sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” Jacques Cousteau

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Santorini; Athens to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Greeks

Hotel On this particular trip, our hotel is a gulet. We spend our evenings in various locations: 2 nights in Santorini 2 nights in Naxos 1 night in Paros 1 night in Delos 1 night in Syros 2 nights in Andros 1 night in Sounion Bay

Romans

Dr Rita Roussos is a native Athenian who grew up in California, and now lives in London. She studied Classical Languages at the University of California, Berkeley and completed her PhD in History of Art at the Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London.

Tour Codes: Sat 30th Sep - Tue 10th Oct (CCY17A) Wed 11th - Sat 21st Oct (CCY17B)

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ATHENS TO ISTANBUL T

he ancient cities of Athens and Istanbul have existed in many incarnations — as continental gateways, centres of culture, and theatres of war. Both contain awe-inspiring remains, from Athen’s emblematic Parthenon to Istanbul’s majestic Hagia Sofia, the once-buzzing Hippodrome of Constantinople. Our journey retraces an ancient path from West to East, taking in the legend-laden sanctuary of Delphi and other fascinating sites, as well as the splendour of these two world cities. En-route we’ll re-imagine a historic clash of empires all the way through to the fraught relations of the 20th century.

Mon 9th – Sun 22nd Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Christina Hatzimichael Whitley 14 days £3,795 (sgl supp £695; without flights £3,535)

• Experience the very best of two superpowers of the ancient world • Glide along the mighty Bosphorous on a relaxed river cruise • Take in the sublime views over Attica from the high plateaus of Delphi • See the merging of two major world religions at former Christian basilica the Hagia Sophia

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Athens. Day Two This morning, we explore ancient Athens on foot, visiting a wealth of sites. In the afternoon, we move on to the Agora of Athens — the best-known example in ancient Greece — and Kerameikos cemetery. Day Three Our day begins at the Acropolis, before we move on to the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art, and later take some free time to explore Athens. Day Four We travel to the sanctuary of Eleusis — thought to have been in use for over 2,000 years — and to ancient Thebes. Day Five We explore the Panhellenic Sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi and its museum.

Day Six We visit the Archaeological Museum of Lamia, Stylida — the ancient town of Phthiotis — and the open site of the Battle of Thermopylae. Day Seven We travel to Thessaloniki, stopping at the former site of the Acropolis of Pyrasos en route. Day Eight We enjoy a walking tour of Thessaloniki. Greece’s second city is filled with historic sights, from the Byzantine walls of the Upper Town to the 4th century Arch of Galerius. Day Nine We discover the city site of Philippoi — named so by Philip II of Macedon — before moving on to the Kasta tumulus in Amphipolis, inside which was discovered the ancient Macedonian Kasta Tomb.

The Blue Mosque, Istanbul.

We enjoy special access to the church of Mary of the Mongols today - the only Byzantine church of Constantinople that has never been converted to a mosque. Day Ten We explore the Sanctuaries of Apollo and Demeter in the ZoniMesimvria. Day Eleven We fly to Istanbul. After visits to the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, we enjoy a Bosphorus Cruise. Day Twelve Today, we visit Topkapi Palace and the Greek Eastern Orthodox Hagia Irene. Day Thirteen We explore the Sulemaniye Mosque complex, Eminonu waterfront, and Rustem Pasa Mosque. Day Fourteen We return home.

Museum of Acropolis, Athens. 82

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Athens to Istanbul GREECE AND TURKEY

NEW

Kavala

Amphitheater and the ruins of the temple of Apollo in Delphi.

“H

ow great are the dangers I face to win a good name in Athens.” Alexander The Great

Mesembria-Zone

Amphipolis Tomb Thessaloniki

Ancient Thebes Lamia

Delphi

Greece Eleusis

GUIDE LECTURER

Athens

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Athens; Istanbul to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Hotels 4 nights in a hotel located at the foot of the Acropolis within central Athens 3 nights in the old town of Istanbul, within ten minutes’ walking distance of the famous sites including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet and Topkapi Palace

Kariye

Turkey

Special Access

All Inclusive

Greeks

Great Cities

Medieval

Rüstem Paşa Cami Tokapi Palace Hagia Irene Hagia Sophia Blue Mosque Istanbul

Süleymaniye Camii

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: ATI17A

CRETE Revisited T

he largest and most populous of the Greek islands, Crete is a well trodden destination... but it still has secrets and surprises waiting to be uncovered. Join us as we explore the famous Minoan ‘Palaces’ and settlements; trace the fortunes of the island through the Classical Greek and Roman periods; and gain a deeper understanding of the glorious west of the island. As we journey through the Cretan landscape, we witness it unfold in an undeniably artistic way: a tapestry of beaches, ancient treasures, vibrant cities and enigmatic villages. The natural beauty we find, is surpassed only by the richness of its history. Discover more about the important recent research which has been undertaken in Western Crete, during special talks from local archaeologists throughout our tour.

Mon 16th – Mon 23rd Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Sandy MacGillivray 8 days £2,350 (sgl supp £235; without flights £2,095)

• Explore the beautiful Mediterranean island of Crete and its lesser-known archaeological remains

• Wander through Armeni, where 200 chamber tombs have been discovered • Discover more about the important recent research which has been undertaken in Western Crete, during special talks from local archaeologists during our tour

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Chania and transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon we enjoy our first lecture from our expert guide. Day Two We spend the morning discovering the Chania Archaeological Museum, set in a lovingly and beautifully restored 16th century Venetian church, and ancient Kydonia, on whose former site modern-day Chania is now built. In the afternoon we enjoy a walking tour of the town’s historic centre. Its many narrow lanes take us past a magnificent harbour, a picturesque Venetian quarter, beautifully restored townhouses, and more. Day Three We begin the day at Kissamos Museum — housed in a VenetianTurkish monument known as Diikitirio, or ‘headquarters’, it is home to exhibits painting a picture of the region’s

Cliffs north of the ruins of Phalasarna. 84

history from prehistory to present. We go on to explore the ancient city of Polyrhenia, which once dominated the plain and gulf of Kissamos, and the Hellenistic town of Phalasarna, with its closed harbour. Day Four We travel to Elyros, a Doric and Roman town famous for its two harbours. In the Classical Period, it was the most important city in southwestern Crete, forming an industrial and commercial centre. We continue to Sougia — a peaceful waterfront village lapped by lucid azure waves — for lunch, and then take a boat to Lissos, an ancient city famous for its Temple of Asklepios. We return to Chania in the afternoon. Day Five On our journey to Rethymnon we visit Aptera, an archaeological site just inland of Souda Bay, and mythological setting for the legendary contest between the Sirens and the Muses. We stop to explore a Mycenaean cemetery at Armeni. With excavations unearthing over 200 chamber tombs and over 500 skeletons, the site has proved invaluable to our understanding of the Minoan people of the area. In the afternoon, we enjoy some free time to explore the sites of Rethymnon at our leisure.

Fort of Rethymnon.

the remains of the ancient city by the same name, located at the northwest foot of Mount Ida. Excavations in the area have revealed finds from the Neolithic period through to the Byzantine. After lunch we visit the Eastern Orthodox Arkadi Monastery, a continuous part of Cretan history for the past eight centuries. Day Seven This morning we explore Rethymnon Archaeological Museum, housed in a distinctive pentagonal building, a former civic prison. It is home to a wealth of finds from the Late Neolithic to the Roman period, making up a series of fascinating collections. This afternoon, we visit a late Minoan villa at Amnisos — the star of which is undoubtedly the ‘House of the Lillies’, so named for its remarkably intact floral fresco — and take a walking tour of historic Rethymnon. Day Eight We return to Chania and transfer to the airport for our flight home.

Day Six We discover the archaeological site and museum at Eleutherna, showcasing

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Crete Revisited GREECE

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

Arkadi Monastrey. Chania Aptera

Kissamos Phalasarna

“N

ever regret thy fall, O Icarus of the fearless

Rethymno

Crete

flight For the greatest tragedy of them all never to feel the burning light.” Oscar Wilde

Elyros Lissos

Sougia

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Chania Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 4 nights in Chania with the hotel located within the Old Venetian Harbour boasting wonderful views. 3 nights in the picturesque old town of Rethymnon. This hotel has a small plunge pool which would be perfect for cooling off after a long day of exploring.

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Dr Sandy MacGillivray is an archaeologist specialising in the Aegean Bronze Age, and the civilisations of Crete, the Cyclades and mainland Greece during this period. He has excavated at Sparta, Paros and Kythnos, in Greece, and at Knossos in Crete, and he co-directed excavations at Palaikastro.

LOOKING FOR OTHER JOURNEYS INTO THE CLASSICAL WORLD? You may also be interested in: Relaxed Provence...................... p.50 Athens | Glories of Pericles...... p.78 Classical Sicily..........................p.106 Roman Lusitania..................... p.170

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: WCR17A

GUATEMALA, Belize & Honduras This truly beautiful tour takes us in search of the Maya of Guatemala, Belize and Honduras. We journey to great ancient cities such as Copán and Tikal and to more remote outposts in the jungle, often by boat across lakes and along rivers that were the arteries for trade and communication across the Maya world. The still mysterious demise of most of the tropical forest Maya meant that by the 11th century AD many of their major cities had been reclaimed by the jungle. We may dine with brilliant macaws in the branches above and drop off to sleep to the roar of howler monkeys deep in the surrounding forest.

Tue 14th – Tue 28th Feb 2017 Guide Lecturer: David Drew 15 days £4,995 (sgl supp £695; without flights £4,295)

• The enduring mysteries of a magnificent civilisation which arose from the impenetrable jungles of Central America

• A real Mesoamerican adventure — jungle treks, mangrove swamps, fantastic wildlife, and remote sites strewn along ancient lagoons

• Incredible wildlife — brilliant macaws, swinging spider monkeys, and eagles wheeling high above the rainforest...

ITINER ARY Day One Flight London to Guatemala via USA, transfer to our hotel in Antigua. Day Two All day discovering the beautiful and vibrant colonial city of Antigua, before the real adventures begin. Day Three We leave Antigua and drive east, visiting the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography in Guatemala City. Day Four Explore the extensive ruined city of Copàn in Honduras, occupied for more than 2000 years, the city developed rapidly around AD 450. We enjoy a special lecture and dinner with archaeologist David Sedat, who has worked at the site of Copan for many years.

Day Five We begin with the city of Quirigua, best-known for its gigantic carved stelae. Once vassal state to Copán, Quirigua came to prominence when its ruler ‘Cauac Sky’ captured his overlord, ‘18 Rabbit’. Day Six We journey inland by motor-launch up the Rio Dulce, through jungle and mangrove swamps, to Castillo San Felipe. Continue by road to Tikal. Day Seven All day in the incomparable Maya metropolis of Tikal, a site occupied continuously from 800 BC to AD 900. Day Eight We stay close enough to Tikal to rise early and climb the highest temples at daybreak, witnessing the surrounding jungle coming to life, a wonderful experience, not to be missed. Day Nine By boat to the city of Yaxhá, with magnificent vistas from its temple tops of rainforest and lakes. The important Maya site of Topoxte occupies an island on one of the lakes. Day Ten We head further into the forests to the impressive Maya city of Caracol, with its awe-inspiring temples, including the ‘Canaa’ or ‘Sky Palace’, the tallest pyramid in Belize.

The Mayan ruins of Copan.

Day Eleven We visit the Classic period site of Cahal Pech, by the banks of the Macal River. On to Xunantunich, with its well-known stucco friezes. Continue to Belize City and the collections of the National Museum. Day Twelve We explore the Classic period site of Altun Ha; before boarding our motor-launch to Lamanai, cruising through luxurious vegetation rich with bird life. We stay in the delightful eco-jungle lodges here and fall asleep amidst the rumour of howler monkeys and other forest noises. Day Thirteen We spend the day among the jungle remains of Lamanai, the ruins spreading along the shore of the lagoon. A highlight here is the extraordinary Mask Temple. Day Fourteen We return to Belize City for our flight from Belize to USA, then to London. Day Fifteen Arrive in London.

Xunantunich Maya, site ruins in Belize. 86

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Guatemala, Belize & Honduras GUATEMALA, BELIZE AND HONDURAS

SMALL GROUP

Altun Ha Lamanai Belize City

Ruins of the Maya in Tikal, Guatemala.

Tikal Belize Yaxha San Ignacio Xunantunich Cahal Pech Caracol

“I

n the heart of the jungle, surrounded by lush vegetation, lies one of the major sites of Mayan civilization, inhabited from the 6th century B.C. to the 10th century A.D. The ceremonial centre contains superb temples and palaces, and public squares....” UNESCO World Heritage listing, Tikal

Livingston

Guatemala

Quirigua Copán

Antigua Guatemala City

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Guatemala via Atlanta; Belize to London via Atlanta Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Cultural

Hotels 2 nights in Antigua, Guatemala 2 nights in Copán Ruinas, Honduras 1 night in Livingston, Guatemala 3 nights in Peten, Guatemala 2 nights in Cayo District, Belize 1 night in Belize City, Belize 1 night in Lamanai, Belize

GUIDE LECTURER David Drew is an archaeologist and writer who studied at Oxford and UCL. Having excavated in Peru for many years, he has been closely involved with a British NGO, the Cusichaca Trust, working with Andean farming communities to improve their agriculture through restoring ancient systems of irrigation canals and agricultural terraces.

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New World

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Tour Code: BEL17A

H I DDEN A MSTER D A M T

he city reclaimed from the sea... Amsterdam is more easily experienced than defined. It’s a uniquely intimate setting where time seems to stop. The city was made to be explored, littered as it is with atmospheric lanes and quarters, and criss-crossed with iconic canals. Join us as we wander through historic castles and river towns, beautifully layered with monumental medieval architecture. Wherever you find yourself, a masterpiece will be within reach...

Thu 11th - Tue 16th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Mark Driessen 6 days £2,995 (sgl supp £615; without flights £2,845)

rom hidden churches to behind-the-scenes museum access, let us show you the hidden treasures of Amsterdam’s many golden ages. Explore ancient watchtowers, admire Renaissance collections and go deep underground on the trail of the excavations of an ancient Roman fort...

• Discover ‘Our Lord in the Attic’, a Catholic church hidden inside a 17thcentury canal house

• Visit one of the most renowned museums in the Netherlands—the

formidable Rijksmuseum, home to works by incredible Dutch masters

• Amsterdam is a real culinary and cultural hotspot — enjoy an unforgettable Michelin-starred meal on tour, and stay in a sumptuous 5* hotel throughout

ITINER ARY Day One After arriving in Amsterdam, our first visit is to the Museum Amstelkring, and the Church of Our Lord in the Attic concealed inside the Museum’s roof. This afternoon, we take in the classical stylings of the Amsterdam Royal Palace, followed by the striking 15th century Nieuwe Kerk. Day Two We visit the Allard Pierson Museum, where we enjoy behind-the-scenes access and a special talk by one of the museum’s curators. After lunch, we visit Forum Hadriani, now the modern town of Voorburg. This town once stood at the northernmost European edge of the Roman empire, and was the urban centre of the Germanic tribe of the Cananefates. We enjoy a privileged introduction

to the town before returning to Amsterdam for a talk by our guide lecturer. Day Three This morning we tour the Roman fortress of Castellum and its Museum Hoge Woerd. The excellent museum gives an extraordinary glimpse into garrison life on the Roman frontier. The museum’s great showpiece is the preserved Roman barge and the artefacts found on it — an excellent insight into Roman trade along the Rhine. After lunch, we continue to Muider to see a beautifully-preserved medieval castle. Day Four We drive to Leiden, where we have special access to the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities.

A 17th century house church and museum in the city of Amsterdam.

We continue to historical Oudewater and Haastrecht, where we enjoy lunch. We depart for Utrecht, stopping en route to visit a reconstruction of a Roman watchtower. On arrival in Utrecht, we discover 2,000 years of history hidden underground at DOMunder Utrecht, where we also have special access after hours. We return to Amsterdam this evening. Day Five We dedicate most of the day to the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, the architecturally eclectic home of works by Dutch masters Rembrandt and Vermeer. Later this afternoon we also visit Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum, which holds the largest collection of Van Gogh works anywhere in the world. Day Six We bid farewell to Amsterdam and return home.

The Rijksmuseum dedicated to arts and history in Amsterdam. 88

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NEW

Hidden Amsterdam NETHERLANDS

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Above and right: Muiderslot Castle.

Dr Mark Driessen is a lecturer and researcher at the Faculty of Archaeology of Leiden University. His expertise spans across topics of Roman Provincial Archaeology, archaeology of the Netherlands and Jordan, ancient Logistics and Trade as well as aspects of the study of the Roman Army. Mark is also one of the project directors for the excavation at the site of Udhruh in Jordan.

“T

he best history is but like the art of Rembrandt; it casts a vivid light on certain selected causes, on those which were best and greatest; it leaves all the rest in shadow and unseen.” Walter Bagehot, 1872

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Amsterdam Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips -Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Hotels 5 nights in a luxurious art nouveaustyle 5* hotel, offering sophisticated rooms with antique touches, and benefitting from views over the canal

Just One Hotel

Romans

Great Cities

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Historic Churches

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Tour Code: HAM17A

iran Kings, Shahs and Gardens A

land of mystery, and unparalleled hospitality, Iran is rich in antiquities. The country is intricately decorated, whilst its monumental legacy bears witness to the sweep of its epic history. We will explore the Persian Kingdom - one of the greatest powers of the ancient world, and walk in the footsteps of Cyrus the Great, Darius, and Xerxes at their palaces.

Thu 6th - Sat 22nd Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Professor Michael Roaf

Thu 12th - Sat 28th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Carolyn Perry

n Shiraz and Esfahan we view splendid Islamic architecture which rival the great cities of the silk road. We are delighted to be able to return to Iran, and very lucky to have the unparalleled expertise of our Guide Lecturers to introduce the sweep of Persian history and archaeology. This tour sold out fast in 2016 - don’t miss your chance to see this great land!

Thu 14th - Sat 30th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Francois Desset

11 days Apr, Sep & Oct: £4,845 (sgl supp £695; without flights £4,245)

• Visit ancient Persian majesty at Persepolis, Naqsh-e Rustam, and Pasargadae, and trace the mysterious Zoroastrians

• Uncover old-style Iranian hammams, stunning architecture, and the finest example of a Persian Garden in the world

• Enjoy special lectures by archaeologists, conservators and researchers, who will give unique insights into their work to protect local heritage

ITINER ARY Day One & Two We fly from London to Shiraz and transfer by coach to our hotel. After our arrival on Day Two we take a leisurely stroll around Shiraz visiting the 19th century Naranjestan Palace, the Rose mosque and the Saadi tomb. Day Three We begin our day of sightseeing in the Unesco World Heritage Sites of Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Archaemenid Empire. We also explore Nagsh-e Rostam, the site of four fine Sassanid rock reliefs. We continue to Pasagardae, and the tomb of Cyrus the Great. Day Four We travel to Firuzabad to explore a slightly later Persian empire. We visit the Sassanid palaces; Qaleh-i Dukhtar Palace, Ardeshir Palace and the Gur tower. We return to Shiraz this afternoon.

Day Five We spend all day in Shiraz – visiting Eram Garden, the tomb of Hafez, Karim Khan castle, and Vakil mosque. Day Six We make our way to Kerman, an all day trip, stopping at the Sassanid Persian palaces at Sarvestan en-route. Day Seven We journey to Mahan to see the Shrine of Nur al Din Nimatullah and gardens. We return to Kerman to explore monuments including the Gonbad-i-Jabalijeh, the Friday mosque and Ganjali Khan Square. Day Eight & Nine We spend two days in the desert town of Yazd today, one of the best examples of traditional Iranian desert architecture. We visit the main Zoroastrian fire temple; wander through the Towers of Silence; explore the Jameh Mosque; and visit Bagh-e Dolat Abad Garden. Day Ten We travel to Esfahan via Maybod and its citadel and via Na’in, where we visit the Jameh Mosque, one of the oldest in Iran, built in the 9th century.

Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque. 90

Day Eleven, Twelve & Thirteen We spend three full days in Esfahan, home to some of the finest Islamic architecture in the world. We start by visiting Maidan-e-Naghsh-e Jahan, the second largest square in the world,

Ceiling art in Golestan Palace, Tehran.

lined with Imam Mosque, and the sixstorey Kakh-e Ali Qapu Palace. We walk along the glorious bridges across the Zayanderood River. We also walk through the Armenian Quarter New Julfa, visiting the Church of Bethlehem and Vank Cathedral. Day Fourteen This morning we depart Esfahan for Tehran, Iran’s modern capital, via Natanz and Kashan, famous for its Fin Garden. Day Fifteen We visit Tehran’s National Museum with its collection of artefacts dating back through Persian history, and also stop at the Islamic museum. This afternoon, we continue the Unesco World Heritage Site, Golestan Palace. Day Sixteen During our last day in Tehran, we visit the Carpet Museum, and the Reza Abbasi Museum. We also stop to see Niavaran Palace. Day Seventeen We transfer to airport for flights home.

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Iran - Kings, Shahs, and Gardens IRAN

GUIDE LECTURERS

Tehran

Ateshkadeh; Fire temple in Yazd. Natanz

Isfahan

“F

reedom, dignity, wealth–these three together constitute the greatest happiness of humanity.” Cyrus

Maybod Yazd Kerman

Persepolis Shiraz

Iran

Firuzabad

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Shiraz via Istanbul; Tehran Imam to London via Istanbul Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach; boat Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Medieval

Hotels 5 nights in a brand new hotel in Shiraz 2 nights in a modern hotel in Kerman 2 nights in a to-be-confirmed hotel in the desert city of Yazd 4 nights in a beautiful centuries-old hotel in historic Isfahan 3 nights in a palatial hotel in Tehran

Historic Churches

Great Cities

Eastern

Michael Roaf is a specialist in the archaeology of Iran, Iraq and the Middle East from Neolithic to Islamic times. He has excavated and travelled widely in Iran.

Francois Desset is an archaeologist specialising in Near Eastern Archaeology. He is a fluent Persian speaker.

Carolyn Perry is an archaeologist, lecturer and museum consultant. She is Chair of the British Foundation for the Study of Arabia.

Tour Codes: Thu 6th - Sat 22nd Apr (IRA17A) Thu 14th - Sat 30th Sep (IRA17B) Thu 12th - Sat 28th Oct (IRA17D)

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ISRAEL & PALESTINE T

here are few places on earth that can boast such a rich and varied archaeological heritage as Israel and Palestine. Over the millennia, this ancient land has felt the tread of conquerors and settlers: Canaanites, Israelites, Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Crusaders, Ottomans and Imperial Britons, all of whom have left their signature. Dr Nick Slope has excavated at sites all over the Holy Land, and will introduce you to his archaeological colleagues who have directed excavations here. Discover the archaeology of that most holy of cities, Jerusalem, the tragedy of Masada, and visit one of the oldest cities in the world, Jericho.

Tue 31st Oct – Fri 10th Nov 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Nick Slope 11 days £3,395 (sgl supp £735; without flights £3,065)

• Walk the streets of one of the world’s oldest cities - Jericho, founded over 10,000 years ago and occupied ever since

• An abundance of iconic ancient sites - from the spectacular, but tragic, fortress at Masada to the coastal Crusader town of Akko (Acre)

• Three days in Jerusalem - including special access to excavations and museums, and dinner with leading local archaeologists

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Tel Aviv and transfer to our hotel on the shores of Lake Tiberias. Day Two We spend our first morning at the Roman and Byzantine city of Beth She’an, and the 6th century synagogue of Beth Alpha. After lunch, we continue to the beautiful Jezreel Valley, a fertile ‘land of milk and honey’. Here we explore Tel Megiddo, better known as Armageddon, and of great strategic importance. Day Three We visit Tel Dan, the most northerly Israelite city, with a remarkable Bronze Age mud-brick gateway still in place. We also visit Tel Hazor before continuing to Belvoir Crusader Fortress. This was a bastion of the Knights Hospitallers until it was eventually besieged and captured by Saladin’s forces in 1189. We also

visit Jesus Boat in the museum in the grounds of Hotel Nof Ginnosar. Day Four Today we drive to Tzipori, a fortified city perched on a mound in the Netofah Valley. We continue to Akko one of the world’s oldest continuously occupied cities, mentioned in Egyptian, Biblical, Greek and Persian mythology. Day Five We explore the Roman harbour city of Caesarea Maritima, constructed by Herod the Great. The city was described by 1st century historian Josephus as: ‘adorned with the most magnificent palaces’ We spend the afternoon at the Israel Museum, home of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Day Six We spend the day in Jerusalem with a leading Israeli archaeologist. We visit the Lion Gate and the Bethesda Pool. After lunch we visit the excavations on Mount Zion, and also see the Tower of David Museum. Day Seven We drive to Jericho, visiting the Herodian Winter Palace complex. We continue by cable car to the Monastery of the Mount of Temptation. In the afternoon we see Tel es-Sultan, the site of Kathleen Kenyon’s excavations, and Hisham’s Palace.

The City of David, walled Bronze Age settlement and fabled capital of the biblical ruler.

Day Eight We continue to explore Jerusalem today. We visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre before walking to the City of David, and taking in Warren’s Shaft and Siloam Pool. After lunch we visit the Herodium. Day Nine We travel to Tel Lachish, a huge city with commanding views over the hills and the coastal plain. We continue to the walled city of Tel Beer Sheba, where we have a picnic lunch. We stop at the prehistoric site of Tel Arad before continuing to the Dead Sea where, if time, we may ‘swim’. Day Ten We ascend to Masada, a Herodian fortress high up on the cliffs. The defenders of the fortress committed mass suicide rather than surrender to the Romans in AD 73. We then visit En Gedi National Park, with its beautiful oasis. We will also visit Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. Day Eleven We drive from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv for our flight home.

Tel Megiddo. 92

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Israel & Palestine ISRAEL AND PALESTINE

GUIDE LECTURER

Tel Dan

The dramatic mountain-top site of Masada.

Dr Nick Slope is an archaeologist and historian who specialises in the archaeology and history of the Southern Levant. He has taken part in many excavations both in the Levant and the UK from 1979 to the present day, as well as having spent some Georgia time at the British Schools of Archaeology in Jerusalem and Athens.

Tiberias

“L

ong ago we resolved to serve neither the Romans nor anyone other than God... The time has now come that bids us prove our determination by our deeds... Hitherto we have never submitted to slavery... We must not choose slavery now...” Elazar Ben-Yair, last Commander of Masada

Tel Megiddo Caesarea Maritima

Tzipori Jezreel Valley Belvoir

Beth She’an Tel Aviv Jericho Jerusalem

Tel Arad Dead Sea

Masada

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Tel Aviv Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 4 nights in a hotel just outside Tiberias on the Sea of Galilee, with a private beach and swimming pool 5 nights in a large 5* hotel with views to the old city walls of Jerusalem

Prehistory

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Great Cities

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Historic Churches

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Tour Code: ISR17A

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ITALY

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pompeii, herculaneum & Classical Campania N

owhere in the world could give a deeper insight into Roman life than the dramatic seaside towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Before the eruption of Vesuvius these were thriving, lively seaside towns - the Brighton and Hove of the ancient world! Bars, shops and brothels did a roaring trade and Pompeii was well-equipped to entertain the passing traveller with amphitheatre, baths and theatre. All this came to an abrupt halt, however, one August day in AD 79 - when Vesuvius - which had done little more than rumble for years - erupted with cataclysmic force. Two thousand years later, the sites of the Bay of Naples confront the modern visitor with a vivid, haunting immediacy like nothing else in the ancient world. In some cases we even know the names, professions and personal histories of the people who owned the villas and shops we visit. Your guide lecturer will bring to life the ordinary people of Pompeii, Herculaneum and beyond. New discoveries are constantly being made, and new areas of the site constantly opened up. Lose yourself in the past, walking the ancient streets in the footsteps of gladiators, slaves, senators and citizens...

• Access to new, rarely-visited villas in Pompeii only recently opened • Led by expert guides – all specialists in Roman Archaeology or Ancient History

• Special access to the Piscina Mirabilis - giant Roman cistern which provided water to the cities of the Bay of Naples

“I

t was not clear from which mountain the cloud was rising, but it was like an umbrella pine... Ashes were already falling, hotter and thicker, followed by bits of pumice and blackened stones. On Mount Vesuvius broad sheets of fire and leaping flames blazed at several points... They debated whether to stay indoors or take their chance in the open, for the buildings were now shaking with violent shocks, and seemed to be swaying to and fro as if they were torn from their foundations.” Pliny the Younger in a letter to the historian Tacitus.

Mon 27 Mar - Mon 3rd Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Diana Blumberg Mon 3rd - Mon 10th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Professor Tony King Mon 17th - Mon 24th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd Mon 1st - Mon 8th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Neil Faulkner Mon 8th - Mon 15th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Eireann Marshall Mon 15th - Mon 22nd May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Tony Wilmott Mon 22nd - Mon 29th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes Mon 11th - Mon 18th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd Tue 12th - Tue 19th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: TBC Mon 18th - Mon 25th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Sophy Downes Mon 25th - Mon 2nd Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Tony Wilmott Tue 26th Sep - Tue 3rd Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: TBC Mon 2nd - Mon 9th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Denise Allen Mon 9th - Mon 16th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Ms Diana Blumberg Tue 10th - Tue 17th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Christian Biggi Mon 16th - Mon 23rd Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Neil Faulkner 8 days Mar, Apr, May, Sep & Oct: £1,895 (sgl supp £185; without flights £1,695)

pompeii and herculaneum - at a glance Day One - Fly to Naples, transfer to our 4* hotel. Day Two - Before the Romans, we visit the glorious Greek Temples at Paestum. Day Three - Whole day at Pompeii, the world’s greatest archaeological site. Day Four - View the treasures of Naples Museum, collected over 200 years of excavation. Afternoon at the amphitheatre at Pozzuoli and Piscina Mirabilis. Day Five - View the little-visited grand villa of Stabiae, off the tourist trail. Day Six - Visit the town of Herculaneum with its extraordinary preservation. Day Seven - A morning climb is rewarded with spectacular views from the crater of Vesuvius, then a villa fit for the wife of an emperor at Oplontis. A young woman shows off her literacy, poised with stylus ready to write.

Day Eight - Return to Naples for flight home.

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Pompeii & Herculaneum ITALY Ruined Pompeii - with Vesuvius looming behind.

Diana Blumberg is an archaeological scientist. She has worked on field schools in Pompeii.

Tony King lectures in archaeology at the University of Winchester. He has led numerous tours to Pompeii for Andante.

Sophy Downes is a historian who has worked and published on many classical sites in Italy.

Dr Eireann Marshall grew up in Italy, and specialises in Classical Civilisation in Italy.

Denise Allen is a specialist in Roman glass. She has excavated all over the UK, including at Stonehenge.

Dr Neil Faulkner FSA is a Research Fellow at Bristol University. He is also a lecturer, writer and broadcaster.

John Shepherd is an archaeologist who has excavated in Italy & the UK. He is a former Curator at the Museum of London.

Christian Biggi is the manager of the Herculaneum Centre, at the British School of Rome.

Oliver Gilkes is an experienced archaeologist, and worked at the British School at Rome for many years.

Tony Wilmott FSA is an archaeologist, specialising in the Roman and medieval periods.

GUIDE LECTURERS Roman specialists, classical scholars and archaeologists. See Pompeii with experts who have studied and worked at this most extraordinary ancient site...

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pompeii, herculaneum & Classical Campania ITINER ARYED fountains in the street, worn where thousands of people have rested their hands to take a drink; the stepping stones, wheel ruts; the graffiti on house walls. Travelling by the best routes to avoid the crowd we visit several villas which have only recently re-opened to the public. Many of our Guide Lecturers have excavated at Pompeii and will introduce the very latest research that is shedding light on this extraordinary site and thus, the whole Roman world.

Porta Nocera, near the ‘street of the tombs’ where many of the great and the good of Pompeii were buried.

Day One We arrive in Naples. Day Two We drive south to explore the temples, site and museum at Paestum. Long before the Romans came, this was a thriving Greek city, part of the Ancient Greek empire from the 6th century BC. We wander among the three mighty temples, some of the best preserved anywhere in the Greek world. After lunch, we visit Paestum Museum which houses the unique painted ‘Tomb of the Diver’ dated to around 480 BC. Day Three We devote a whole day to Pompeii. No other site can compare in revealing the scale and proportions of a Roman town. We visit some of the best-preserved buildings, as well as an amphitheatre, theatre, forum, bathhouses, bars and brothels. The

Day Four Today we marvel at the exceptional collections of artefacts at the National Archaeological Museum at Naples. Many of the best wall-paintings and statues were brought here in the early years of the excavations. More poignant, perhaps, are the tableware, glass beads, dice and other incidental objects of everyday life. After lunch

Ariadne gives wonderful views over the Bay of Naples and is remarkably little visited. We walk through the grand rooms, chambers and gardens in splendid isolation. Free time this afternoon to return to Pompeii or relax. Day Six We visit the town of Herculaneum, which perfectly complements a visit to Pompeii. The town was buried to a much greater depth than Pompeii. Here, you wander streets with almost complete Roman houses rising on either side, preserved up to their

We have special access to the cavernous Piscina Mirabilis at Misenum, usually closed to the public. This gigantic cistern stored water for the Roman fleet and fed the towns of the Bay of Naples. in Naples, we continue to Pozzuoli to see one of the best-preserved amphitheatres in the world. We explore the passage-ways where gladiators would once have awaited their fate... Day Five We go off the beaten track to the villas of Stabiae, an exclusive Roman resort for the very wealthy. The vast Villa San Marco is one of the most opulent along this coast - and remains very impressive in its scale. The Villa

A rather exhausted-looking Venus adjusting her sandal.

rooftops in some cases! After lunch we visit another ‘hidden gem’ of the Bay of Naples, the modest farm-house that has been discovered at Boscoreale, named the Villa Regina, now with a fine small museum. Day Seven On our final full day, we ascend to the great volcanic crater of Vesuvius. Most of our journey is by bus, but the last part requires a short walk. We are rewarded with amazing views both down into the crater and out across the Bay of Naples, putting everything we have seen during the week into perspective. After lunch we spend the afternoon at the villa at Oplontis; buried and preserved, the villa is grander even than those at Stabaie and makes a fitting end to our tour. Day Eight We return home this morning.

Mosaic showing the wonderful and various sea life from the Bay of Naples, Pompeii. 98

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Pompeii & Herculaneum ITALY

“I

t was a lifetime ambition to visit this area and the tour was above all expectations. The visits were wonderful. Of course Pompeii and Herculaneum were magnificent, and the impromptu fast-paced walk through the streets of Naples. And glorious sunshine, no doubt specially ordered by Andante!”

already travelled with andante to pompeii?

The Temple of Athena at Paestum, one of three, among the best-preserved in the world.

You may also like our tours...

“I

Crete & Santorini......................p.74 Rome with the Sistine Chapel....p.114 Classical Sicily..........................p.106 Jordan........................................p.152 Peru & the Nazca Lines............p.124

had high expectations and they were surpassed in every aspect of the holiday.” Guest in 2016

Our hotel in the hills above Pompeii.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled flights with BA from London to Naples Tour Managers Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included with wine at dinner, except lunch at Pompeii. Entries & tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

Just One Hotel

Greeks

Hotel 7 nights in a charming medieval village with beautiful panoramic views. The hotel is located in wooded hills above the sea, which you will be able to view from the unspoiled gardens and terraces. Since 1821, the hotel has made a great name for itself with many guests returning for a second visit. Due to the history of the hotel and the good things it has done for the people of Campania, it has since become one of the most important and well-known in the city.

Romans

Historic Churches

Please Note For 12th September - 19th September; 26th September - 3rd October and 10th - 17th October tours we will spend; 7 nights in a family run hotel within the city centre and close to the Cava de Tirreni which is only a short distance from the historical centre and the famous Borgo Scacciaventi

Tour Codes: Mar; POM17M Apr; POM17C, POM17B

May; Pom17D, POM17E, POM17N, POM17O Sep; POM17F, POM17P, POM17G, POM17H & POM17Q Oct; POM17I, POM17J, POM17R & POM17K

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H I DDEN R O ME R

ome is much more than you see on the surface. Behind the grand Renaissance architecture and medieval churches, the city is laid out on ancient Roman lines. Elegant facades hide crumbling ancient masonry and to truly appreciate this legacy, you have to delve beyond the usual marble monuments and beneath the modern streets. During our tour, we explore a hidden world of buried houses, underground temples, and secret catacombs usually only accessible to specialists. A truly exclusive break, Hidden Rome takes care of all your needs; enjoy a 5* hotel in the heart of the ancient city, and a spectacular Michelin starred meal with a view over Rome and the dome of St Peter’s Basilica.

Mon 6th - Sat 11th Feb 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Gillian Shepherd Mon 24th - Sat 29th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Jonathan Coulston Mon 18th - Sat 23rd Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Eireann Marshall 6 days £2,995 (sgl supp £535; without flights £2,825)

• Special access to the Secret Archives of the Vatican, usually only permitted to officials and scholars

• An insiders guide to ancient Rome - with access to working excavations, hidden Roman sites and museums

• Out of hours access to the world-famous Capitoline Museum, home to many of the treasures of ancient Rome

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Rome. Day Two Our first day in Rome begins with a trip up the Aventine Hill, to visit the elegant Santa Sabina. We continue to the Forum Boarium, an ancient food market where the boats unloaded their cargoes. We have special access to the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus. Preserved below a former pasta factory, and now the Opera stores; the Mithraeum was tucked in below the stairs of the Great Altar of Hercules, itself built near where the hero killed the monster Cacus. After lunch we visit the titanic Baths of Caracalla, before ending the day at the Tomb of Pomponius Hylas and the Tomb of Scipios.

Day Three We travel out of the city to the Via Nomentana, one of the great consular roads leading away from Rome. We visit Santa Constanza, the circular mausoleum built by Constantine the Great for his daughter Constantia, and the Church of S. Agnese with its catacombs. We travel to the Appian Way to see one of the villas of the super-rich, the Villa of the senatorial Quintilli. We enjoy a private visit to the Capitoline Museum this evening. This is one of the world’s great museums, the civic collections of Rome itself and is stuffed with masterpieces. Day Four Our first stop is the exquisite 12th century church of San Clemente, with its wonderful apse mosaic. The church is gloriously decorated with gold frescoes and elaborate carvings. In the basement, a Roman temple and altar still survive. We then walk up to the Caelian Hill and the Basilica of SS. Giovanni and Paolo with Roman houses below. We will finish the afternoon with a visit to Palazzo Valentini, an excavated Roman house complex beneath a Renaissance palace. The innovative modern display techniques lead you through the rooms of the excavated house.

Enjoy a private visit at the Capitoline Museum.

Day Five We begin the day at the Pantheon, a marvellous feat of Roman engineering and artistry, the 2000 year old dome remains the largest ever built. We then have special access to the Cripta Balbi Museum and excavations. Strolling through Medieval and Renaissance Rome, we drop in at the Palazzo Spada to view Borromini’s intriguing corridor. We reach the culmination of our tour with a visit to the Vatican for special access to the Tomb of St Peter. We also visit the Secret Archives, hidden within the walls of the Papal Palace. This evening, we enjoy a farewell dinner at La Pergola with splendid views over the Eternal City. Day Six We walk through Rome to see the ancient world’s largest sundial, the Meridian of Augustus. Finally, we travel to Portus, wrapped in forest and ivy. We return home this afternoon.

Colossal statue restored as Oceanus. 100

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Hidden Rome ITALY

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURERS

Above: The Vatican museum, home to important masterpieces of Renaissance art.

Dr Jonathan Coulston is lecturer in Ancient History and Archaeology at St Andrews University. He is also an expert on Trajan’s Column in Rome.

Right: Church of Sant’Anselmo all’Aventino.

“A

thousand roads lead men forever to Rome.” Alaine de Lille in Liber Parabolarum (1175)

Dr Eireann Marshall is a Research Associate and Associate Lecturer with the Open University.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Rome Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Hotels We stay in a fantastic 5* hotel in the very heart of the city - the ideal location from which to explore the delights of Rome - only a few steps away from St Peter’s Church and the Pantheon. There is a roof terrace bar with excellent panoramic views across the city.

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

Gillian Shepherd PhD is Director of the Trendall Centre for Ancient Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe, Australia.

Tour Codes: Mon 6th - Sat 11th Feb (HRO17A) Mon 24th - Sat 29th Apr (HRO17C) Mon 18th - Sat 23rd Sep (HRO17D)

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ANCIENT WONDERS of Sicily L

et us introduce you to Sicily: seductively beautiful and perfectly placed in the heart of the Mediterranean. Discover this fertile prize, coveted by countless cultures, including the Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans. The island is home to wonderfully-preserved Greek temples, Roman villas and Norman cathedrals - many filled with glorious mosaics. Its dramatic coastal, volcanic and mountain scenery once provided the backdrop to many ancient battles. On this week long tour we introduce the very best of Sicily’s archaeological sites. Those who wish to delve a little deeper into the island’s past should turn to our eleven day Sicila Antiqua tour.

Tue 14th - Tue 21st Mar 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Denise Allen Tue 12th - Tue 19th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes 8 days £1,995 (sgl supp £190; without flights £1,735)

• Explore a landscape of ancient civilisations; from Greek temples to Roman villas, Norman cathedrals to the ruins of age-old fortresses

• The perfect week long introduction to ancient Sicily, travelling from

Norman Palermo to Ancient Greek Siracusa (and everything inbetween!)

• Enjoy a wealth of special access at the Piazza Armerina, the villa of a Late Roman aristocrat with a taste for expensive mosaics

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Palermo, Sicily’s glittering capital. An architectural pastiche of different artistic cultures, it wears its marriage of many heritages proudly on its streets, with Byzantine domes rising above Norman chapels. Day Two On our first full day, we start in Monreale and visit the Norman Cathedral. Built in the 12th century, the cathedral is particularly famed for it’s cloisters - each banded with gold inlay and uniquely carved. Later this afternoon, we have a specially arranged early evening visit to the Cappella Palatina of Roger II, a glittering jewel of Norman architecture.

A Doric greek temple in Segesta. 102

Day Three Our morning is spent at the temple and theatre of ancient Segesta. The iconic fifth-century Doric temple here, set against a beautiful sunlit valley, is one of the best-preserved in the world. We enjoy lunch at a restaurant before travelling to Selinunte, a coastal Greek colony that was frequently engaged in conflict with its rival Segesta. We explore the remains of the five major temples here, including the re-erected temple of Hera. Finally we depart for Agrigento. Day Four We spend a full day exploring Agrigento — first its excellent museum, then its splendid Valley of the Temples. Agrigento was founded as Akragas by Greek colonists, who probably chose the site for its natural fortifications — two nearby rivers and a ridge to the north. It was one of the richest and most famous colonies of Magna Graecia, and remains a beautiful site. Day Five We spend our day first travelling to and then discovering Piazza Armerina, the extraordinary Roman villa with its wealth of mosaics. A World Heritage Site, the villa is in fact a large complex of buildings that have been under excavation since the 19th century. If we are lucky, we may see archaeologists and conservators at work among the mosaics. This evening we continue to Syracuse.

The glorious golden mosaics of the Cappella Palatina.

Day Six This morning we enjoy a special guided tour of the Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse. We explore the exhibits of the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum. After lunch, we visit the ruined Greek fortress of Castello Eurialo, seated on a ridge on the edge of the Hyblean hills. However, many elements of the ruins remain remarkably intact, including the walls of the five defensive towers. Day Seven We tour Ortygia, Sicily’s ‘green heart’, taking in the Piazza del Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa. We enjoy an idyllic special boat trip from the Grand Harbour. The afternoon is yours to spend as you wish: at leisure, or in exploration. Day Eight We fly home from Catania.

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Ancient Wonders of Sicily ITALY

NEW

GUIDE LECTURERS

The Italian community of Piazza Armerina.

Palermo Segesta

“T

o have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is not to have seen Italy at all, for Sicily is the clue to everything.” Goethe

Selinunte Piazza Armerina Agrigento

Catania Sicily Syracuse

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Palermo; Catania to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotel 3 nights in Palermo staying in a 17th century building situated in the heart of the historical city centre 2 nights in Agrigento, known for the Valley of the temples 3 nights on Ortygia Island with an attractive rooftop restaurant with views over the harbour

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

Dr Denise Allen began her archaeological career as a full-time digger, working for three years on sites all over the UK. Denise worked for Andante Travels for over twenty years as Director of Archaeology. She left the company in 2015, but continues to lead tours whenever she can!

Tour Codes: Tue 14th - Tue 21st Mar (SAW17A) Tue 12th - Tue 19th Sep (SAW17B)

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103

H I DDEN VENICE D

iscover the secrets of this exquisite lagoon city, miraculously built upon the water... Kissed by the waters of the northern Adriatic, the city of Venice is a jigsaw of low islands, morning mists and elegant winding water corridors. We lift the Venetian mask to reveal the hidden offices and documents of the Doge’s Palace, explore St Mark’s Basilica in private at twilight, and ascend the bell tower of Torcello for a very special view out over the lagoon. Of course, the exclusivity doesn’t stop at the sites. Enjoy five nights in a luxurious Venetian hotel, take a special boat trip on the Grand Canal, and let us lift the lid on a Michelin-starred restaurant in St Mark’s Square. Should you wish, we can arrange your theatre or opera tickets for an extra special evening.

Mon 20th - Sat 25th Mar 2017 Mon 6th - Sat 11th Nov 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Eireann Marshall Mon 30th Oct - Sat 4th Nov 2017 Guide Lecturer: Professor John Mitchell 6 days £2,995 (sgl supp £430; without flights £2,825)

• Private evening visit to the greatest Byzantine church in the west, St. Mark’s Basilica

• An opportunity to explore the byways of one of Europe’s most evocative cities

• Follow in the footsteps of the Doge in a special secret tour of the Doge’s Palace

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive at our destination. Before transferring to Venice, we visit Altinum. It is a small Roman city on the mainland, important as it is one of the original parts of Venice itself. It was destroyed by Atilla the Hun in 452 AD, and the inhabitants, along with others, fled to the lagoon. Day Two We travel by vaporetto across the lagoon to the island of Torcello, first settlement of Venice. We explore the 7th century cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the lagoon’s oldest building, with its fine Paleo Christian mosaics. The Archaeological Museum of the lagoon contains many of the finds from recent excavations. We also take the opportunity to view the distinctive Venetian environment from the bell tower of the island. We continue to the important medieval island of Murano, home to the Venetian glass trade.

We take a special tour of the glass factory at Murano. Their products have been in demand for centuries in the Mediterranean and beyond. Day Three We enjoy a day exploring St Mark’s Square, the city’s only substantial Piazza. The seemingly endless arcades of the square hide a plethora of secrets. We also explore the seat of power of the Venetian Republic at the Doge’s Palace. We take the special ‘secret itinerary’ which winds us through the back rooms, prisons and hidden offices of the Doge’s State. Afterwards, we continue to the Archaeological Museum, with its eclectic collections gathered from all over the Venetian dominions. Enjoy some free time this afternoon to explore further. We end the day with a special private evening visit to St. Mark’s basilica.

The Island of San Giorgio Maggiore. 104

Day Four We walk and take a vaporetto through Venice to the grand church of San Giorgio Maggiore, the classic building designed by Andrea Palladio as a mighty punctuation mark on the city’s waterfront. We ascend its campanile

The mighty Doge Palace.

to savour the panorama of this fantasy on the water. The churches of the religious orders include the massive Frari church, which took over a century to complete, and SS Giovanni e Paulo, a Dominican church built in brick to the latest Gothic designs of the 14th century. We also visit the parish churches open to a cross-section of Venetian society. We enjoy dinner at a specially chosen Michelin starred restaurant in St Mark’s Square. Day Five Today we take a walking tour of the city, considering its principal bridges — especially the famous Rialto. We explore the distinctive zone of Castello, location of the Arsenale, the mailed fist of Venice’s maritime power. We wind our way through the Venetian calle out to the former Cathedral of the city at San Pietro di Castello, a mannerist fantasy prepared to a revised design of Andrea Palladio. Our day ends with a boat trip along the Grand Canal itself.. Day Six We return home today.

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Hidden Venice ITALY

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURERS

Above: The glorious interior of the cathedral at St Mark’s Basilica.

Dr Eireann Marshall is a Research Associate and Associate Lecturer with the Open University as well as an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Exeter. She has led many tours for Andante, including several to Pompeii, Sicily, Tunisia and Libya, and is bilingual in English and Italian.

Right: Mosaic on the St. Mark’s Basilica façade.

“V

enice, it’s temples and palaces did seem like fabrics of enchantment piled to heaven.” Shelley

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Venice Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Hotels 5 nights overlooking the Venice Lagoon. A mere 200 yards from the famous St Mark’s Square, our hotel is well situated in the historical centre of Venice and also offers a rooftop restaurant from which you can view the Grand Canal.

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

John Mitchell is Professor of the History of Art in the Department of World Art and Museology at the University of East Anglia. His specialisations include Italian religious architecture. He has been closely involved with intensive UEA field trips to Venice over many years.

Tour Code: Sat 20th - Thu 25th Mar (HVE17A) Mon 30th Oct - Sat 4th Nov (HVE17B) Mon 6th - Sat 11th Nov (HVE17C)

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105

classical sicily T

he meeting point between Africa and Europe, East and West - there’s so much more to the Sicily you think you know. The classically beautiful heart of the Mediterranean has been praised by poets and became the prize of countless cultures – Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and more. The sun-soaked island is home to wonderfully-preserved Greek temples, Roman villas and Norman cathedrals - many filled with glorious mosaics. Its bountiful seas and fertile lands were once the sites of fierce ancient battles; but Sicily was also a creative centre of philosophy, art and learning.

Thu 30th Mar - Sun 9th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes Thu 20th - Sun 30th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: TBC

This tour will leave memories of beautiful bays and ruinous ancient cities; and honey coloured columns against a clear blue sky.

Thu 14th - Sun 24th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Denise Allen

• Island at the centre of the Mediterranean, a multicultural nucleus packed with spectacular monuments

• Exceptionally fine mosaics at Piazza Armerina, a palatial Roman villa, re-opened after extensive refurbishment

• From columns to cathedrals - explore honey-coloured Greek

Thu 11th - Sun 21th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd Thu 18th - Sun 28th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: TBC

Thu 28th Sep - Sun 8th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Tony O’Connor Thu 5th - Sun 15th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Eireann Marshall 11 days Apr, May & Sep: £2,675 (sgl supp £330; without flights £2,325)

temples and gleaming gold-in-glass Norman mosaics

ITINER ARYED Day One We fly to Palermo and drive to the hotel.

We also visit the Archaeological Museum, the Church of La Martorana, and Palermo Cathedral.

situ and can be viewed from raised walkways. Continue to the ancient settlement of Morgantina.

Day Two Our journey begins with the famous unfinished Doric temple at Segesta, set amongst rolling hills. There is also a fine theatre on the hilltop above. We continue to the magnificent Norman cathedral and abbey founded by William II in 1174 at Monreale.

Day Four Today we take a boat across the shallow salt lagoon to the Phoenician island stronghold of Motya – bought and excavated in the 19th century by a family whose fortune was based on Marsala wine. We continue to the important port town of Marsala, ancient Lilybaeum.

Day Eight We spend all day discovering the ancient city of Syracuse. We see the exquisite artefacts in the Archaeological Museum; the Greek theatre, still often used for performances; and the ancient quarries, where many prisoners of the Peloponnesian War met their end.

Day Five In Marsala we see the remains of a Punic warship, sunk on its maiden voyage during the First Punic War. We continue on to the ancient quarries at Cave di Cusa, from which came the stone for the temples at Selinunte – unfinished column drums still lie abandoned here. We head to the site of Selinunte, dramatically situated overlooking the sea and strewn with wild flowers and celery.

Day Nine Free time to explore lovely Baroque Ortygia. We then drive south to see Noto and its Sicilian Baroque Cathedral, followed by the late Roman villa at Tellaro with its amazing mosaics, some of which depict scenes from the Fall of Troy.

Day Three We spend all day in Palermo. We have a specially arranged early evening visit to the Cappella Palatina of Roger II, a glittering jewel of Norman architecture, with cosmatesque inlays in the lower walls, goldin-glass mosaics above, and an exquisite stalactite ceiling of wood.

Surprisingly contemporary-looking mosaic at Piazza Armerina.

106

Day Six We spend all day among the magnificent Greek temples of Agrigento, imposingly ranked along the southern ridge of the ancient city built to impress all those approaching.

Day Ten Our final full day is spent at Euryalus fort, constructed at the beginning of the 4th century BC by Dionysius the Elder, and one of the few Greek fortifications surviving from this date. We then drive right out of the city to the unspoilt interior of the island. We explore the prehistoric tombs at Pantalica with stunning views over the hills.

Day Seven We start the day in opulent Roman style, at the palatial Roman villa with exceptionally fine mosaics at Piazza Armerina. These have been left in

Day Eleven Before we return home, we have some free time in Syracuse followed by a visit to the Greco-Roman Archaeological Park in Catania.

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Classical Sicily ITALY

GUIDE LECTURERS Dr Denise Allen is a specialist in Roman glass, with over 100 publications related to her name. She has excavated all over the UK.

Oliver Gilkes is an experienced archaeologist. He also worked at the British School at Rome for many years.

The Temple of Concordia in Agrigento. Palermo Monreale Segesta

“I

Sicily

Marsala

am glad to have seen so much of Sicily and learned something about its history. I also loved the wild flowers and the weather was fine all the time! ” Guest in 2016

Agrigento

Morgantina Catania Piazza Armerina Syracuse Noto Tellaro

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Palermo; Catania to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach; boat Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Hotels 3 nights in Palermo, staying in an elegantly restored palazzo 1 night in the centre of Marsala 2 nights in a hotel overlooking the temples in Agrigento 4 nights in elegant minimalistic hotel Ortygia, close to the Duomo

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Prehistory

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

Dr Eireann Marshall is a Research Associate and Associate Lecturer with the Open University.

Tony O’Connor is a specialist in the Roman Empire and has excavated widely across Britain, Europe and North Africa.

John Shepherd is Andantes’ Director of Archaeology. He is an archaeologist who has worked extensively across Europe.

Tour Codes: Apr; SIC17A, SIC17B May; SIC17C, SIC17G

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Sep; SIC17D, SIC17E Oct; SIC17F

107

HIDDEN FLORENCE AND SIENA F

ollowing the success of our Hidden Rome and Hidden Berlin tours, we thought it only right that next we uncover the secrets of two jewels of the Renaissance - Florence and Sienna. As with all our Hidden tours, this trip combines exclusive access and a small group (just 16 guests) with truly luxurious hotels and the very best food of the region. A feast for all the senses... In the heart of Tuscany, this tour takes the long view of Florence and Sienna. We admire the world-famous art and architecture of the great Renaissance masters, but also delve into their ancient forebears, with special access to the Etruscan tomb of the Infernal Chariot.

Mon 3rd - Sat 8th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Oren Margolis 6 days £2,995 (sgl supp £415; without flights £2,775)

• The wonderful collection of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany in Florence’s Archaeological Museum

• Go behind the scences with a plethora of exclusive access including to conversation labs, museums, and Etruscan tombs

• Stay at 5* hotels and enjoy exquisite food at the 3* Michelin Enoteca Pinchiorri restaurant

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Pisa and transfer to Florence, the regional capital of beautiful Tuscany and considered the birthplace of the Renaissance itself. En route to our 5* hotel, we visit the Medici villa of Poggio a Caiano — a splendid Renaissance villa built by order of Lorenzo the Magnificent and his son Pope Leo X. Its luxuriant gardens and splendid frescoes set the tone for this exclusive tour. Our first special access visit is to the Etruscan tomb of Montagnola Sesto Fiorentino. Day Two We enjoy privileged access to the National Archaeological Museum, where we see the remarkable Etruscan bronze statues of The Orator and the Chimera of Arezzo.

Siena Cathedral, Duomo. 108

After lunch, we visit the Basilica of Santa Croce, one of the largest and most magnificent Franciscan basilicas in the world. It is the burial place of multiple Italian heroes, including Michelangelo, Galileo and Rossini; and is decorated with frescoes by Giotto, one of the first great artists of the Renaissance. Day Three This morning, we discover the famous Duomo di Firenze — the Cathedral of Florence — and the Crypt of Santa Reparata, with its excavated remains of an earlier Florence, as well as the site’s new museum. This afternoon, we pay a visit to the Opificio delle Pietre Dure, the specialist conservation workshop, complete with an exclusive tour of their labs to see restoration in progress. We continue to Siena. Our splendid hotel dates back to the seventeenth century and is centrally-located — perfect for exploring the city. Day Four Our first full day in medieval Siena. We visit the Palazzo Comunale on the famous central square of Siena, with a chance to climb the bell tower for the wonderful view of the city. In the afternoon a tour of the Duomo and Museo del Opera, which contains some of the greatest works of art from the cathedral.

A breathtaking view of Florence.

Day Five We drive to Sarteano to see the stunning Etruscan Tomb of the Infernal Chariot, named for its fresco of a demon-driven chariot. The atmospheric tomb was only recently discovered, and has been wellpreserved in its undisturbed state. We have arranged special access to the tomb. We walk the nineteen metre corridor and examine its many complex frescoes, ranging from a three-headed serpent, to a hippocampus and a frieze of dolphins — marine imagery associated with the transition to the Etruscan underworld. We continue to Sarteano’s fine museum and formidable castle, one of the last strongholds of the Sienese republic against the unstoppable Medici. Day Six Later, we visit Monte Oliveto Abbey for a wine tasting before returning to Siena. We enjoy a free morning in Siena before driving to Florence for our flight home.

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NEW

Hidden Florence & Siena ITALY

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: The lion at Loggia dei Lanzi in Piazza della Signoria, Florence. Right: The Renaissance Villa, Medici Poggio a Caiano.

Dr Oren Margolis is a native of Canada. He studied for his doctorate in History at Oxford University, where he now teaches. Oren is a historian of the Italian Renaissance, and is currently exploring the cultural history of early printing. Oren’s research has taken him to a number of Italian cities, including Florence, Venice, Naples, and Rome.

“I

saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.” Michelangelo

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Pisa Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Cultural

curious about our other hidden tours?

Hotels 3 nights in one of the finest hotels in Florence, located in the heart of the beautiful, historic city

You may also be interested in: Hidden Paris............................p.62 Hidden Berlin...........................p.66 Hidden Amsterdam..................p.88 Hidden Rome...........................p.100 Hidden Venice..........................p.104

2 nights in an ancient 17th century building that combines all the splendour of the Renaissance period, in the centre of Siena

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

Great Cities

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Tour Code: HFS17A

109

MEET THE ROMANS B

loodthirsty imperialists, or the greatest empire the world has ever known? At its peak, the Roman Empire covered a vast territory, ruled by powerful, often capricious Emperors, whose names remain familiar 2,000 years later. In this tour we contrast the grand marble monuments of Rome with the humbler, but exceptionally preserved cities of Ostia, Pompeii and Herculaneum. Led by passionate Roman specialists, we follow the path of the Roman elite, travelling from the capital of the Empire into the rich area of Campania. In Rome, we get a feel for life in an Imperial capital; before we take the holiday route of wealthy Romans to the ordinary seaside Roman town of Pompeii.

Mon 3rd - Fri 14th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Neil Faulkner 12 days £2,945 (sgl supp £395; without flights £2,725)

• The glorious Imperial monuments of Rome are waiting to be seen: the Colosseum, Pantheon, Forum... and so much more

• See Ostia, as well-preserved as Pompeii, the port at the mouth of the River Tibur through which trade flowed in and out of Rome

• Extraordinary, haunting cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum: an unbeatable introduction to ordinary Roman life

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Rome and drive to our hotel just behind the Pantheon. Day Two Our busy day begins at the Church of San Clemente, before we move on to the infamous Colosseum where up to 50,000 spectators could come to watch the gladiatorial contests. We also visit the beautifully situated palaces of the Emperor on the Palatine Hill. Day Three In the morning we visit the gardens and collections of the Villa Borghese. In the afternoon, we visit the Campus Martius to explore the Pantheon. We gain insight into Augustus’ political outlook by viewing Ara Pacis, the Altar of Augustan Peace. Day Four We go beyond the usual tourist trail to the massive Baths of Emperor

The baths of Emperor Caracalla. 110

Caracalla. Built as an act of ‘public relations’. We pass through the great walls of the city, and travel down to the coast, to visit the port city of Ostia, where the riches of the Empire were delivered to Rome. Day Five This morning we explore the sprawling Vatican City Museums, an opportunity to see some of the wonderful works of art that once decorated the buildings and public spaces of Rome. Enjoy a free afternoon in this extraordinary city. Day Six We follow in the footsteps of the Emperors. Fleeing the hustle and bustle of the city, we travel into the countryside and to the villa of the Emperor Hadrian at Tivoli. Set in the beautiful Sabine hills. After lunch in Tivoli, we will visit the terraced gardens of the Villa D’Este. Day Seven We travel along the same route that ancient pleasure seekers followed to the Bay of Naples. We visit the Villa Quintilli, a luxury home of the Roman elite. On arrival in Naples we will visit the Archaeological Museum, Day Eight We enjoy a day at the exceptionally well-preserved Pompeii. The one-time coastal town was devastated by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD – streets, temples, houses, bars, baths and public buildings are all there for us to explore.

Imperial forum and Trajan columns.

Day Nine We drive south to explore the temples, site and museum at Paestum. Long before the Romans came, this was a thriving Greek city, part of the Ancient Greek empire from the 6th century BC. We visit Paestum Museum which houses the unique painted ‘Tomb of the Diver’ dated to around 480 BC. Day Ten We drive beyond Naples to Pozzuoli to see the best-preserved basements of any amphitheatre in the world. Day Eleven We have special access to the cavernous Piscina Mirabilis at Misenum, usually closed to the public. We explore Herculaneum, smaller than Pompeii but much better preserved. In the afternoon we visit the opulent villa at Oplontis, still with its original wall paintings in place. Day Twelve We first visit the Abbey at Cava di Tirreni en route to Stabiae, to view two wonderful villas, before flights home from Naples.

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Meet the Romaans ITALY

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: The Colosseum, largest amphitheater in the Roman world.

Dr Neil Faulkner is a Research Fellow at Bristol University and a specialist in Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and First World War archaeology. He is involved in fieldwork projects in Norfolk, Jordan, and Slovenia. He also works as a historian, and has an editorship of Military History Monthly. He is a regular contributor to TV documentaries in the UK.

Right: The Roman Forum.

“R

ome has so grown since its humble beginnings that it is now overwhelmed by its own greatness.” Livy 59 BC – 17 AD

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Rome; Naples to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 6 nights located in the very heart of ancient Rome, near the Pantheon, this long established family-owned 3* hotel is a typical Roman building overlooking the vibrant streets 5 nights stay in an elegant 4* hotel, situated on the cliffs just outside the harbour town of Castellamare di Stabia

Great Cities

looking for journeys into the classical world? You may also be interested in: Dalmatia & Dubrovnik..............p.34 Athens: Glories of Pericles.......p.78 Classical Sicily..........................p.106 Roman Lusitania......................p.170

Romans

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Tour Code: IRO17A

111

Relaxed Capri B

eguiling Capri has charmed Roman emperors, Russian revolutionaries and Hollywood stars alike. The legendary idyll presents the perfect microcosm of Mediterranean appeal. Inhabited from the Palaeolithic period, Capri was briefly occupied by the Greeks, before it became the private playground of Emperor Augustus and retirement home of Tiberius. On this relaxed tour we have time to take advantage of all Capri and Ischia has to offer, with a balance of archaeological visits and free time to explore. Beyond the tourist facade, Capri presents a rugged landscape, peppered with unspoilt beaches and picturesque villages overlooking the deep blue waters that lap into secluded coves and mysterious grottoes.

Mon 24th - Sun 30th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Tony O’Connor Mon 23rd - Sun 29th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: TBC 7 days £2,695 (sgl supp £385; without flights £2,495)

• Stroll through the most magnificent and best conserved of all island residences, Villa Jovis

• Spend some time in the fantastic setting of the splendid Villa San Michele and its gardens in Anacapri

• Relax during a boat trip to the volcanic Isola d’ Ischia, where we visit the Area Archeologica di Santa Restituta

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Naples for a beautiful hour’s drive to Sorrento, where we take a short ferry over the Tyrrhenian Sea to Capri. Day Two We begin our day at the Villa Damecuta, one of the twelve villas built by Emperor Tiberius on Capri perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. We continue by boat to the Grotta Azzura, a sea cave whose green and blue light led Tiberius to erect a marine temple here. We stop for some free time in the historic centre of Ana Capri. We enjoy a special after hours visit and tour of Museum of Villa San Michele exploring gardens which are littered with relics from antiquity before ending the day in true Italian fashion with aperitifs on the terrace.

Castello Aragonese dalla Torre di Guevara. 112

Day Three We drive south to Marina Piccola, where we visit the lovely Augustus Gardens which offer a panoramic view of the island. We continue to St. Giacomo’s Charterhouse, with a fine cloister of a late Renaissance design, and the Chiostro Piccolo with Roman marble columns. We stop for lunch at Marina Piccola - another favourite haunt of Tiberius - where we enjoy impeccable views of Faraglioni. The afternoon is free for you to explore Marina Grande, perhaps taking a boat to Palazzo a Mare or Piazetta. Day Four We enjoy another beautiful little boat trip today, this time to Ischia, just an hour away. The volcanic outcrop is the most developed and largest of the islands in the Bay of Naples. We continue to the Archaeological Museum and the Area Archaeologica di Santa Restituta Finally, we step into the medieval Castello Aragonese. This is the most impressive historical monument in Ischia, built by Hiero I of Syracuse in 474 BC.

‘Die Blaue Grotte auf der Insel Capri ‘ by Jakob Alt.

cliffs here) may have been exaggerated but it remains an astonishing feat of Roman architecture and engineering. This afternoon we walk along Pizzolungo. This is, arguably, the most breathtaking of all Capri’s winding ways. Day Six Our last full day on Capri, we travel to Mount Solaro, called ‘Acchiappanuvole’ (cloud-catcher) by locals for its misty morning crown. We ascend in chairlifts to Barbarossa Castle, passing over lush green pathways on a beautiful journey uphill. This afternoon we visit Punta Carena, Italy’s second tallest lighthouse. Day Seven We transfer to the airport and return home.

Day Five An imperial morning — we visit Villa Jovis, the most famous and most opulent palace of Tiberius. Completed in 27AD, the entire complex covered over 1.7 acres of land and is built at the top of the second highest peak on the island. Tales of wild debauchery (according to Tacitus Tiberius he enjoyed throwing his enemies off the

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NEW

Relaxed Capri ITALY

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: Emperor Augustus gazes over Capri from on a top of Monte Solaro.

Tony O’Connor is a specialist in the Roman Empire, who has excavated widely across Britain, Europe and North Africa. Tony is also deeply interested in the study of Roman coinage, and has worked for many years as a museum archaeologist. In addition to his expertise, he has been described by previous guests “as good humoured and unruffle-able, and very engaging company.”

Right: The Villa Jovis, famous palace of Tiberius.

“A

t Capreae they still point out the scene of his executions, from which he used to order that those who had been condemned after long and exquisite tortures be cast headlong into the sea before his eyes.” Suetonius, The Life of Tiberius

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Naples Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Hotels 6 nights within a hand picked hotel in Capri, perfectly located for your stay where you will be able to explore the island and its beautiful views.

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

looking for a relaxed break? You may also be interested in: Relaxed Split............................p.36 Relaxed Provence.....................p.50 Relaxed Tuscany..................... p.126 Relaxed Siracusa.....................p.136

Tour Code: Sun 24th - Sat 30th Apr (RCA17A) Sun 23rd - Sat 29th Oct (RCA17B)

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113

ROME Rome is an exhilarating and intimate destination where the glories of its ancient past, the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon exist beside museums, artsoaked churches and medieval piazzas: evidence of Rome’s continued power when its empire was no more. This is the perfect introduction to the ‘Eternal City’ led by expert archaeologists who bring to life triumphs, tragedies and political intrigue that characterised the Roman empire. We have special access to the Colosseum (May and Sept) and the glorious Sistine Chapel (September only). Follow in the footsteps of slaves and Ceasars; saints and sinners in this unique exploration of over 2000 years of Roman history.

Mon 8th - Sat 13th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Claudia Pinci Mon 25th - Sat 30th Sept 2017 Guide Lecturer: Diana Blumberg 6 days May: £1,895 Sept: £2,400 (sgl supp £290; without flights £1,725 or £2,230)

• Go underground at the Colosseum, to see where the gladiators awaited

their fate. Private evening visit to the Sistine Chapel (September tour only)

• On foot through the glories of the Eternal City from Trajan’s column to the Colosseum; the Forum to the Vatican

• Stay in one charming hotel for the entirety of our journey, perfectly placed just behind the Pantheon

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Rome. Day Two We begin at the iconic Colosseum, the Flavian amphitheatre. We have a specially arranged visit to the underground service tunnels and the upper levels. This afternoon, we walk through the heart of ancient Rome, taking in the Roman Forum, the venue of profound historical events including Caesar’s funeral, and triumph of Alaric the Goth. The major public institutions of the state, senate, and popular assembly were once here. We end by walking along the later Imperial Fora ending at the incomparable Trajan’s column.

The remains of the Roman Forum. 114

Day Three A morning guided visit around the vast collections of the Vatican Museum. After lunch we enjoy some free time to explore St. Peter’s Basilica. You could choose to ascend the great dome, or visit the burial place of Popes in St. Peter’s crypt. Day Four During our September tour, we return to the Vatican Museum for a private viewing of the masterly Raphael rooms and the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece of high Renaissance art. We visit the Villa Borghese Museum. The 17th century Galleria Borghese houses a substantial part of the great art collection assembled by the Borghese, one of Rome’s most illustrious princely families. Work by Bernini, Titian, and Canova are among the incredible assemblage of art to be discovered. We continue to the Pyramid of Gaius Cestius. Tucked inside the Aurelian wall, and right beside the impressive funeral pyramid of Gaius Cestius is the ‘Non-Catholic’ cemetery of Rome. The scene of many illustrious burials, including John Keats and Shelley’s ashes and heart. We end the day at the innovative Montemartini Museum. Day Five We walk through the winding lanes and alleys of medieval Rome, through the region known as the Field of Mars.

Inside the Pantheon, a former Roman temple and now a church in Rome.

Visit to the Pantheon just around the corner from our hotel, the inspirational building built by Emperor Hadrian to be a shrine for all the Roman Gods. Its roof is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome ever built. We travel on to the Piazza Navona, the former stadium of emperor Domitian, and the Column of Marcus Aurelius celebrating his victories in the Marcomannic Wars. We end our day at the Ara Pacis, the great altar of peace built by Augustus with its famous frieze of the imperial family and Senators in procession. A free afternoon to explore this fascinating city. Day Six Before returning home, a morning to explore Ostia Antica the original port of ancient Rome. In places this sprawling city is as well preserved as Pompeii. It has all the features expected for urban life: a forum, baths, temples, private houses and tenements, and of course warehouses and wharves for collecting and storing the supplies to keep the imperial capital fed. We transfer to the airport for flights home.

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Rome ITALY

GUIDE LECTURERS

Above: Michaelangelo’s work at the Sistine Chapel. Right: Piazza Navona, Rome.

Diana Blumberg is an archaeological scientist specialising in the analysis of archaeological materials. She is currently working on her PhD at the University of Southampton, researching the Roman glass industry of the 1st century AD.

“I

found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.” Augustus, quoted by Suetonius

Special Access

All Inclusive

Just One Hotel

Cultural

Hotel 5 nights situated in the heart of ancient Rome. Our hotel is a typical Roman building with wings from many eras looking out on to the highspirited streets below.

Romans

Medieval

Great Cities

Historic Churches

Claudia Pinci is a passionate Roman archaeologist who has excavated in both Italy and England. She is an experienced lecturer and tour guide in Rome, where she knows the ancient city like the back of her hand.

Tour Codes: Mon 8th - Sat 13th May (ROM17A) Mon 25th - Sat 30th Sep (ROM17B)

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115

RENAISSANCE VILLAS F

antastically elaborate, brimming with sculpture and symbolism, the villas of central Italy embody the high art and low political intrigues of the Renaissance. Rapidly expanding under the emperors they reached their apogee in fantastically elaborate houses and gardens, brimming with sculpture and symbolism and embodying high art, low jokes and political intrigue. Built for popes and princes, these villas hark back to a much older tradition, when Roman Emperors would retreat to their palaces in the Sabine hills. We explore the villa in its many and various forms, from the rustic farms of antiquity, beloved of Roman poets, to the vast complexes of later eras, when villas reflected their owners’ wealth and status.

Mon 15th – Sun 21st May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes 7 days £2,225 (sgl supp £220; without flights £1,995)

• Spectacular villas built by classical and Renaissance grandees with their elaborate gardens and fountains

• Be astonished by the unique Mannerist sculptures of the Gardens of Bomarzo, colloquially known as the ‘Park of the Monsters’

• From austere Roman farmsteads, to imperial hunting lodges, the classical origins of Italian villas

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Rome and transfer to Frascati. Day Two We drive into the beautiful Sabine Hills, the retreat of Renaissance princes and Roman Emperors. Our first stop is at the rustic Villa of Horace, Licenza. Onwards to Arcinazzo Romano where we view the sprawling remains of Emperor Trajan’s villa and hunting lodge. No doubt providing the Emperor with some ‘R and R’ after a hard campaign subduing the edges of Empire... In the afternoon visit Subiaco, Sacro Speco and St. Benedict’s first abbey founded near the ruins of Nero’s villa. Day Three We have special access to the Barberini Gardens, laid out over the remains of a grand villa of Emperor Domitian.

A ‘monster’ from the Park of Wonders at Bomarzo. 116

The gardens are attached to the Papal Villa at Castelgandolfo. We continue to Lake Nemi, where excavations recovered the remains of two ‘floating’ villa ships, built by Caligula. Having survived the end of Rome, the ships were sadly destroyed in WWII, but a museum tells their story. After lunch, we continue to Frascati and the baroque Villa Aldobrandini, with extensive gardens and 17th century ‘water theatre’. Day Four We travel north to Farfa Abbey founded c.600AD by St. Lawrence the Syrian, in a ruined villa. At the height of their power, in the 12th century, the monks of Farfa owned over 600 churches and 130 castles. Not quite how one imagines a life of monastic poverty! We visit Falerii Veteres the Roman successor to the ancient town of Civita Castellana (Falerii Veteres). Originally an Iron Age settlement, called Falerii, the town was abandoned until the early Middle Ages. It was then repopulated and became a flourishing independent commune, often contended by the Pope and the Holy Roman Empire. Day Five We spend the morning at Caprarola to visit the staggering conception of the Villa Farnese built by Alexander Farnese, nephew of Pope Paul III, to an elaborate architectural scheme of the architect Giacomo Vignola. The mannerist and ‘wild’ gardens conceal a

Farfa Abbey, a symboll of monastic power and influence in the early Middle Ages.

‘secret garden’ and smaller villa. Then on to the Orsini (Odescalchi) castle by Lake Bracciano. One of the largest strongholds in Italy, in the 15th century the Orsini family managed to repel attempts by Pope Alexander VI and the notorious Cesare Borgia to capture it. The castle was rebuilt as a luxurious fortified retreat and houses a museum. Day Six We enjoy a day of gardens today. The famous mannerist gardens of Villa Lante at Bagnaia are our first stop. They consist of an extravaganza of 16th century hydraulic engineering which has created cascades and the famous outdoor water dining table. We later visit the enigmatic Park of Wonders (Park of Monsters) at Bomarzo. This ‘sacred wood’ is home to carved, mosscovered monsters and giants. Day Seven We catch a glimpse of how the other half lived as we stop at Calcata in the Treia valley on our last day. The valley was originally inhabited by local farmers who tunnelled their way through the soft tufa stone to build their dwellings. We continue to Rome for our flight to London.

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Renaissance Villas ITALY

GUIDE LECTURER

Bomarzo Bagnaia

The crowning cupola of Vigola’s magnificent spiral staircase at Palazzo Farnese, Capraola.

Caprarola Civita Castellana Calcata

“N

ot much was really invented during the Renaissance, if you don’t count modern civilisation. ” P J O’Rourke

Farfa

Licenza Subiaco Rome Frascati Castel Gandolfo

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 4 nights accommodation in a modern 4* hotel which has been fashioned from two separate former late-19th century mansions. 3 nights stay in the historic town centre of Civita Castellana, only 50km from the historic Duomo. The heart of the old town is a warren of lanes lined with tufa houses and mansions.

Cultural

Romans

Medieval

already visited renaissance villas with oliver? He is also leading tours to... Albania | Land of the Eagles.....p.16 Pompeii & Herculaneum...........p.98 Rome........................................p.114 Samnites Enemies of Rome......p.120

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: LRV17A

117

LATIUM The Roman Rich T

he picturesque hills and plains were an ideal retreat for the great and good of Imperial Rome, who came to escape the oppressive summer heat of the Eternal City. Emperor Hadrian himself built a villa complex here in the beautiful setting of Tivoli - his opulent and extravagant creation is one of the ‘blockbuster’ sites you’ll see on this tour. While visitors often come to see the justly famous Roman ruins at Ostia and Tivoli, it is often the smaller, lesser-known places which enchant them; such as the acres of landscaped botanical gardens at Ninfa, or the dining room of the reclusive emperor Tiberius in a cave at Sperlonga, and Alba Fucens, a hidden gem in the Apennine mountains.

Sun 21st – Sun 28th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Professor Tony King 8 days £2,445 (sgl supp £245; without flights £2,195)

• A holiday fit for a senator! Opulent Imperial villas, secluded hills and an ancient superhighway (the Via Appia)

• Sprawling and extravagant villas at Tivoli and Sperlonga, built by Hadrian and Tiberius as a retreat from the politics and pressures of Rome

• Rome’s fertile hinterland, from the coast to the foothills of the Apennines and the famous gardens at Ninfa

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Rome. Day Two We begin in Terracina, an important Roman town on the Via Appia. We find the ancient remains of the hilltop sanctuary of Jupiter Anxur here. We continue to the remains of the amazing seashore villa built for Emperor Tiberius at Sperlonga. Its most remarkable feature is an outdoor dining room located at the mouth of a cave filled with gigantic sculptures of mythological scenes. Day Three We have special access to the famous gardens at Ninfa, which overlie a former medieval town. The ruins were landscaped into botanical gardens in the 1920s. They are now recognised as some of Europe’s finest gardens.

View over the Maritime Theatre in Hadrian’s villa. 118

In the afternoon we follow the road which climbs from the Pontine plain to the Latin town and Roman colony at Norba. The views over the Pontine Marshes are magnificent. Day Four We travel to the remains of the Roman colony of Minturnae, where we find the well-preserved aqueduct, a section of the Via Appia, the theatre, and other features of Roman urbanism. As well as having impressive Roman ruins, it is an attractive town today. We visit Alatri, a city of the Hernici tribe. As loyal allies of Rome, they enjoyed a relatively quiet life! Day Five We visit Hadrian’s Villa which sprawls across the rolling countryside at the foot of the hills below the town of Tivoli. Beginning around AD 117 Hadrian took a small family villa owned by his wife and added on a whole series of grand pavilions, many of them modelled after places he had seen on his travels around the empire. The complex ended up larger than most Roman cities. We visit the town this afternoon and pay a visit to the great 16th century Villa D’Este. Built by Cardinal Ippolito D’Este, the son of Lucrezia Borgia and a major figure in the church politics of the era. Day Six We travel to Tusculum, one of the largest Roman cities in the Alban Hills today. The stones of the walls

The famous gardens at Ninfa, overlying a medieval town.

were siezed as spoils of war by Rome. After its destruction, the land became woodland and pasture lands. We have arranged special access to see the lesser-known Roman town and its well preserved theatre. Tusculum was Cicero’s local town and his suburban villa could be found nearby. We continue to Palestrina, ancient Praeneste, once dominated by a magnificent Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia, the first example of ‘dynastic’ architecture in Roman Italy. Day Seven We head for the hills today, to visit Alba Fucens, strategically positioned on the main route to the Adriatic. The large site stretches over a hill with three spurs. This spectacularly situated city is often mentioned as a highlight by guests on this tour. Day Eight We finish our tour with a visit to Ostia Antica, the harbour city at the mouth of the Tiber - a classic site to rival even Pompeii. After lunch, we fly home.

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Latium: The Roman Rich ITALY The ancient Roman city of Alba Fucens, at the base of Monte Velino. This is an archaeological jewel that should definitely be explored.

GUIDE LECTURER

Alba Fucens

Italy Rome

“I

Palestrina Frascati

loved all the sites. I developed a new interest in the history of the Roman republic and its relationship with its neighbours.” Guest in 2016

Norba Ninfa Terracina

Alatri

Gaeta Minturnae

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 3 nights in a hotel which is made up of four restored buildings; a villa built in 1912, a convent dating from the 1930s, the nuns’ residence and the remains of a Roman villa. This hotel also has a swimming pool and a bar 4 nights stay in a modern 4 star hotel which is set back from the main road with a private garden

Cultural

Romans

Professor Tony King is a lecturer in archaeology at the University of Winchester and a specialist in Roman religion. He has excavated extensively in Britain and abroad, including at Hayling Island, Meonstoke Roman Villa, Pompeii, Leptis Magna and Volubilis, and his interests spread across Roman Britain, Gaul and Italy. Tony is also an expert in the analysis of animal bones.

looking for other roman empire tours? You may also be interested in: Dalmatia & Dubrovnik............. p.34 Relaxed Provence...................... p.50 Classical Sicily........................ p.106 Roman Lusitania..................... p.170

Medieval

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Tour Code: LAT17A

119

SAMNITES Enemies of Rome T

he unknown Italy set high in the Apennine Mountains, home of the Samnite tribes. These hardy warriors ‘taught the Romans how to fight’ and were some of their most implacable foes. Their mountain life created a particular culture, and during our tour, we visit some of the great sanctuaries, fortresses and towns they left behind. The Samnite Wars helped to establish Rome as the supreme power in Italy. The final Samnite defeat effectively signed the death warrant for their entire independence. An ethnic cleansing campaign against the Sabines was put into place by Roman dictator Lucius Cornelius Sulla in 82 BC. They were quickly absorbed into Roman Italy, disappearing as a recognisably distinct people.

Mon 22nd – Sun 28th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes 7 days £1,995 (sgl supp £150; without flights £1,750)

• Visit L’Aquila, the Roman city interspersed with bold new architecture • See a selection of wonderful churches in the tiny village of Bominaco • Follow the winding path of the Volturno River to Venafro • Discover the great collections of Chieti Museum ITINER ARY Day One Arriving in Rome we make our way down the long winding valley of the River Volturno to Venafro. Where (time permitting) we visit the amphitheatre. On to Isernia. Day Two We begin at the Sanctuary of Maria Santissima Addolorata, built over the site of an alleged miracle. We explore the fortress city Isernia. The Samnite settlement controlled the vital high passes across the Apennines. Fragments of its ancient walls survive amidst the medieval houses. We reach the source of the River Volturno, high in the mountains, where the great abbey of San Vincenzo al Volturno lies. We receive special access to the 9th century crypt of Abbot Epiphanius, here this afternoon.

The Arch of Trajan. 120

Day Three We continue to Benevento. Among the ancient remains here is the wonderful Lombard church of Santa Sofia. We continue to Saepinum, founded in the very centre of the high valley that was the heart of Samnium. The city was endowed with walls, a forum and a theatre, but was clearly maintained by Imperial interest. Day Four We travel to the sleepy Molise town of Agnone, home of the Papal bell foundry, owned and run by the Marinelli family for 800 years. The foundry is still the official bellcaster to the Pope, and continues to receive regular commissions. We move on to Piettrabondante, ritual centre of the Pentri tribe, one of the greatest of the Samnite people. This afternoon we visit Schiavi di Abruzzi, a mountaintop village with a series of fine reconstructed Samnite temples high up the mountainside. Day Five Today we visit to Iuvanum, one of ancient Italy’s smallest capitals. On to the castle of Rocca Scalegna, dramatically situated on an overhanging crag, a Lombard watchtower before it expanded to become a feudal castle. The Chieti Museum is our final stop of the day, and where we meet the early Iron Age sculpture of the Capestrano warrior, with his memorable ‘sombrero’ hat.

The historic Benedictine monastery of San Vincenzo al Volturno.

Day Six A morning visit to the Sanctuary of Hercules Curino, built at an early date on a series of imposing terraces. We continue to the tiny village of Bominaco, and its wonderful churches: Abbey church of Santa Maria Assunta, a 12th century Romanesque church; and the marvellous painted Oratory of San Pellegrino. We enjoy an afternoon visit to the important and recently excavated necropolis of Fossa, with its tumuli and rows of standing stones. Day Seven We visit some of the restoration work in the earthquake shattered medieval city of L’Aquila – founded as an Imperial city by ambitious Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. Stop at Aminternum, a Sabine city, but one of the gateways to Samnium. We explore a 2nd century theatre and amphitheatre here, as well as a much later aristocratic house. We return home today.

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Samnites: Enemies of Rome ITALY

GUIDE LECTURER

The picturesque village Colledimezzo in Abruzzo.

San Vincenzo

“T

L’Aquila

here in the brutal hills the men scratched at stony plots and there was talk of war... From time to time the Samnites would descend to the poppy-strewn fields of Campania, which they devastated.” Ann Wroe, 1991

Bominaco

Pescara Chieti

Agnone Rome Pietrabbondante Isernia Venafro Saepinum Benevento

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 2 nights stay situated in the countryside, outside the centre of L’Aquila 1 night in a simplistic hotel which offers its own private beach 4 nights in the spa town of Castelpetroso. Our hotel has an onsite spa and swimming pool

Romans

Historic Churches

interested in travelling with oliver? He is also leading tours to... Albania|Land of the Eagles........p.16 Pompeii & Herculaneum............p.98 Rome with the Sistine Chapel...p.114 Renaissance Villas.....................p.116

Conflict

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Tour Code: EOR17A

121

NORTHERN APULIA F

ollowing on from our much-loved Bologna tour, we present Northern Apulia: Food & Archaeology. The fascinating area is quite unlike the rest of Italy characterised by a wild rocky plateau, dramatic coastline, and vast flat plains dotted with olive trees. Apulia has played host to many successive peoples and cultures each leaving their own unique archaeological trace on the landscape; from rock-cut cities and churches to fortified farmhouses.

- Food & Archaeology Mon 29th May – Mon 5th Jun 2017 Guide Lecturer: Deborah Hodson

7 days £2,595 (sgl supp £250; without flights £2,375)

This is also a region of rich food heritage. Join us for an authentic, multisensory Italian experience, featuring: hands on cookery classes, mozzarella making, visits to durum wheat farms, and DOC wine tasting sessions.

• The little-visited heel of Italy: discover Roman battlefields, dramatic rockcut churches and magnificent castles and cathedrals

• Enjoy a spectacular combination of gastronomic delights and archaeological treasures in a region famed for both

• Learn the techniques behind traditional Italian recipes, from orecchiette pasta to mozzarella, olive oil to bread

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Bari, and transfer to our hotel in Trani. Day Two We enjoy a morning exploring the fascinating archaeological evidence of Trani’s Norman, Byzantine and Jewish past. This afternoon we learn how to make orecchiette, a typical pasta shape native to Apulia. Day Three We begin the morning with a mozzarella making class and enjoy visits to Il Parco, seeing how some local cheeses such as mozzarella are made. We continue to the Manfredonia Museum with its fascinating Iron Age collections before a traditional Manfredonian fish lunch. We finish the day at Monte Sant’Angelo, site of one of the most ancient Christian shrines in Italy.

Day Four We devote the morning to culinary delights - learning about durum wheat at the Murgini Farm and visiting Altamura for a traditional breadmaking class. This afternoon we explore Gravina. Day Five Our fifth day marks an entire day of special access visits — this morning, We begin in Ascoli Satriano for a special opening of the Polo Museale, the town’s diocesan museum, which houses superb cultic sculptures. Afterwards, we pay a visit to Faragola Villa, one of the most significant examples of late ancient residences in rural southern Italy, where we partake of the unique experience of a Roman-themed lunch. Finally, this afternoon, we enjoy a private visit and wine tasting at the Giancarlo Ceci Estate, a working organic farm and winery producing spicy reds, fruity whites, fragrant rosés and effervescent sparklers.

Inside the Museo del Confetto. 122

Castel del Monte, the 13th century citadel and castle situated in Andria, Apulia.

extraordinary hunting lodge. In the afternoon we explore Andria Vecchia and visit the Museo del Confetto to find out about traditional sweets. Day Seven We enjoy a morning exploring of Canosa’s archaeological sites: a Roman bridge, acropolis and the Basilica di San Pietro with the tomb of the crusader Bohemond of Antioch. In the afternoon we enjoy olive oil tasting in the town of Cerignola. Day Eight Our final morning is spent exploring the winding lanes of Bari’s old town — including a visit to the Basilica of San Nicola. The church is an important pilgrimage destination for Catholics and Orthodox Christians alike, and features precious mosaics and a gilded wooden ceiling, belied by its relatively plain Romanesque exterior. We return home this afternoon.

Day Six Today we visit a place where they make the local Canestrato cheese and Castel Del Monte, Frederick II’s

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Northern Apulia: Food & Archaeology ITALY

NEW

Trani Cathedral – a Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to Saint Nicholas the Pilgrim.

“T

he trouble with eating Italian food is that five or six days later you’re hungry again.” George Millar

GUIDE LECTURER

Monte Sant’Angelo Castle of Manfredonia

Cerignola Canosa di Puglia Faragola

Trani Andria

Bari

Castel del Monte Gravina in Puglia

Altamura

Italy

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Apulia Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 7 nights located on the harbour of Trani with beautiful views over the sea. The hotel is a ‘national monument’ in its own right and is also a former convent dating from the 1400s.

Cultural

Romans

Medieval

Deborah Hodson is an archaeologist, specialising in the Roman Empire. She moved to Italy via Portugal and lived for 10 years in Apulia, sampling its ruins and culinary delights. Whilst there she taught English, tourism and cultural heritage. Currently, Deborah works at the National Museum of the Royal Navy and has responsibilities across all the Royal Naval dockyards.

curious about our other combined interest tours? You may also be interested in: Vintage Provence.......................p.52 Sicily: Wine of the Gods.......... p.138 Turin Festive Food................... p.144 Festive Food in Bologna.......... p.148

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: AFA17A

123

THE ICE MAN and His World T

he Alpine valleys of Val Camonica hold one of the largest collections of Prehistoric rock art in the world - Italy’s first World Heritage Site. The images depict every facet of life from Neolithic through to Roman times. Each depiction is unique, creating a varied and concentrated gallery of prehistoric life: there are animals, humans, boats, carts, huts - some strung together into narratives - an almost overwhelming profusion of detail.

Sat 3rd – Thu 8th Jun 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Tertia Barnett 6 days £1,695 (sgl supp £95; without flights £1,545)

Having set the scene, we venture into the mountains to visit the ice-man ‘Ötzi’ - an emissary from 5000 years ago. Hikers stumbled across Ötzi in 1991, and for over two decades analysis of his body, and the extraordinary Prehistoric tool kit he carried, has given us a glimpse into the Ice Man’s world...

• Special tour of Bolzano Museum – home to the Ice Man, Ötzi – with the curators who preserve him

• Discover the Prehistoric gallery of over 100,000 rock art depictions in the Val Camonica national park

• Remarkable waterlogged wooden structures and everyday items preserved in the mud at the edge of Lake Ledro

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Verona. Day Two We begin our tour with the first of two days exploring Val Camonica. Today we see rock art sites in Naquane Park. The valley is 75 km long and contains around 300,000 Prehistoric rock art images, depicting weapons, tools and animals that are now extinct. During Prehistory this area was the contact zone between the rest of Italy and central Europe, and it was through this Alpine pass that people and their ideas moved. This afternoon we contrast art with domestic life as we view reconstructed Prehistoric houses at Foppa di Nadro. Day Three We view rock art sites in the archaeological park of SerdinaBedolini,and in Val Camonica. After lunch, we continue to the

huge engraved stones at Massi di Cemmo where excavations have also uncovered a Bronze Age sanctuary. We end the day at the Museum of Prehistoric Art and Life. Day Four We enjoy a morning in Ledro on the scenic shores of a mountain lake, where waterlogged remains of Bronze Age lake dwellings have been found, some of which have been reconstructed. Images of possible Prehistoric houses carved into the rocks at Val Camonica may represent settlements such as these. The remarkable finds excavated from the lake village include bread baked by being moulded around heated stones. We continue to Riva del Garda and La Rocca Museum, where the exhibits include Copper Age statues. On to our next base, Trento. Day Five

Depictions of huts at Naquane Park.

fungus as part of a portable medical kit; elegantly stitched leather clothing, a dried grass cloak and insulated walking shoes. Ötzi’s body has yielded information on how he died, his diet, parasitic infestation, and body decoration: the tattoos on his back and legs are thought to indicate acupuncture points. Free time this afternoon - either return to Bolzano or join an optional cable car ride into the Alps - to view the dramatic mountain landscapes Ötzi might have travelled through. Day Six After time for further exploring or souvenir shopping we return home.

We delve further into the Alps to Bolzano Museum, home of the Ice Man. Here we have special access to the Museum, which is introduced by scientists and archaeologists.

Reconstructed lake dwelling at Lago de Ledro. 124

The original artefacts are very well displayed, along with excellent reconstructions, and are irresistibly fascinating. They include a birch-bark box for carrying the embers of the Ice Man’s fire; antibiotic

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The Ice Man and His World ITALY

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Depictions of animals found at Naquane Park. Bolzano Trento

Boario

“I

am generally unwilling to give 10s as nothing is ever quite perfect, but I thought this tour was exceptionally well led and well organised. First to introduce us to the lives of the Neolithic, Copper and Bronze age peoples, learn more of them, and gradually lead to the wonderful finale of the Ice Man Museum.” Guest in 2016

Riva del Garda

Valcamonica Verona

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Milan; Verona to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 3 nights in a comfortable 3 star hotel in Boario Terme

Prehistory

looking for prehistoric tours? You may also be interested in: Chile & Easter Island.................p.30 Rock Art in Namibia................p.160 South Africa: Western Cape.....p.166 Tanzania & Zanzibar...............p.184

2 nights in Terme

Small Group

Dr Tertia Barnett works for the Royal Commission on Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland and is Honorary Fellow at the University of Edinburgh. She is particularly interested in the rock art of Italy and North Africa. Tertia has conducted fieldwork projects in regions as diverse as Libya and Northumberland.

Rock Art

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Tour Code: PHI17A

125

Relaxed Tuscany A

wealth of archaeological sites are hidden amongst the rolling hills and golden landscapes of Tuscany. The region has seduced countless civilisations for centuries. It all began with the Etruscans, but the Romans, medieval Christians, British aristocrats, and plundering Napoleon all share a space in the region’s fascinating history. Our visually stimulating tour is set in the rolling Tuscan countryside - a gorgeous land of villas and vineyards. Based in a single hotel in the centre of Sienna, we enjoy a combination of expert-led archaeological visits and free time to explore. Highlights of the tour include visits to the hilltowns of Arezzo and Cortona, and the imposing Medici stronghold of Poggibonsi.

Mon 11th - Sat 16th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Oren Margolis 6 days £2,195 (sgl supp £285; without flights £1,945)

• Discover the Palazzo communal in Siena and its breathtaking bell tower • Explore Cortona, the art and architecture city with a ‘diadem of towers’ • Journey through the rolling countryside of Tuscany, punctuated with villas and avenues of cypress trees with free time to explore at your leisure

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Italy and drive to our hotel in Siena. Day Two This morning we explore Siena, the last town to hold out against the rise of the Medici. The Republic invested heavily in its wondrous Duomo, which we visit on our exploration of the city. We take plenty of time to explore and savour the marvellous Palazzo Comunale, and perhaps ascend its bell tower for the exceptional view over the town’s rooftops. We enjoy some free time this afternoon to spend at our leisure. Day Three We travel to Arezzo, another proud city state. It was described by Livy as one of the Capitae Etruriae, or Etruscan capitals, and is believed to have been part of the so-called Dodecapolis, a list of the twelve most important Etruscan

cities. We explore the life and work of Giorgio Vasari, court architect to Cosimo I and biographer of the great artists. We then move on to the duomo, thought to be located on the site of the ancient city’s acropolis. There is the option to enjoy some free time this morning — perfect for languishing in the town’s central square, star of the Roberto Benigni classic Life Is Beautiful — or to visit Arezzo’s Archaeological Museum alongside your guide lecturer. We enjoy the culinary delights of Tuscany tonight at one of the region’s fabulous Michelin-starred restaurants. Day Four Today, we enjoy a full day in Cortona, a small charming town in Arezzo’s Chiana Valley. Seated on the skirts of the mountains, with narrow cobbled streets and terracotta roofs, this is almost the archetypal medieval Italian city. Here, we discover the Accademia Etrusca — the home of an 18th century esoteric society and its fine museum — and the Diocesan Museum, holding works by Fra Angelico including his 1430s Annunciation altarpiece.

Façade of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Pienza.

Day Five We drive to Pienza, a Unesco World Heritage Site built by Pope Pius II. It was intended as a model Renaissance city, as a Papal retreat from Rome, and to test out mannerist ideals of city planning. This afternoon, we enjoy a visit to a local Tuscan winery to sample the vintages — Tuscan wines are, justifiably, celebrated, with a wealth of native grapes and a rich history of viticulture — providing a refreshing and relaxing end to the day. Day Six We enjoy a final visit to the great Medici fortress at Poggibonsi, relied upon by the Florentine Empire of Cosimo Medici. We transfer to the airport for our return home.

We enjoy a special visit to the impressive Etruscan tumuli of Sodo Melone below Cortona, the burial place of the city’s ancient aristocrats.

The ceiling of the Museo del Confetto. 126

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NEW

Relaxed Tuscany ITALY

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: View over the Duomo of Siena, the medieval city which forms the base of our tour.

Right: Fresco at the Palazzo Comunale.

“T

uscany, land of fierce hates and wild loves and of limitless passions.” Oscar Fay Adams

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Florence Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Hotels 5 nights at the Hotel Certosa di Maggiano, a luxury boutique hotel in Siena. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, the charming hotel began its life as a 14th century Carthusian monastery.

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

looking for a relaxed break? You may also be interested in: Relaxed Split............................ .p.36 Relaxed Provence.......................p.50 Relaxed Capri...........................p.112 Relaxed Siracusa.......................p.136

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: RTU17A

127

POMPEII & AMALFI Wine and Archaeology S

outhern Italy is an incredibly rich region, its abundant archaeology perfectly complemented by its equally historic 4000-year-old wine legacy. Explore rock-cut abbeys, fascinating museums, magnificent temples and the astonishing remnants of ancient towns and cities devastated (and preserved) by Vesuvius. Wine is the life blood of the region – it was named ‘land of wine’ by the Greeks. The wines were adored by the Romans and its not hard to see why - bold, fullbodied, and supremely satisfying… but don’t take our word for it.

Sat 23rd - Sat 30th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Diana Blumberg 8 days £2,750 (sgl supp £275; without flights £2,495)

Andante Travels have joined forces with Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours to offer a series of Wine & Archaeology tours

• Enjoy wine tastings in local family-run vineyards, plus cooking classes and delicious local dishes from the home of pizza and buffalo mozzarella

• See Pompeii, Herculaneum and lesser-known sites with archaeologists who bring these ancient sites to life

• Enjoy the best of both worlds: an irresistible combination of world-famous archaeological sites and mouth-watering wines

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in time for a light lunch at a local Osteria in Amalfi. Enjoy a relaxed start to the tour, with some free time in Amalfi. Take a stroll through the sunfilled piazzas or along the beach. We continue to our hotel in Ravello. Day Two We begin the day with a visit to Tenuta San Francesco, in the beautiful remote Lattari valley. After a light lunch, we take part in an afternoon cookery demonstration of local recipes at our hotel. Day Three We encounter beautiful views on our way along the winding roads to the Cilento coast. We stop en route at

View over the Villa of the Mysteries, at Pompeii. 128

Corpo Di Cava dei Tirreni, the rockcut abbey stands in a gorge of the Finestre Hills. We have special access to the library and its rich archives of public and private documents, which date back to the 8th century. We stop for lunch at De Conciliis, a family run winery tucked away in the heart of the Cilento region. We continue to Santa Maria for an afternoon wine tasting at Villa Sirio, our hotel for the next two days. Day Four We travel to Paestum. We wander among the mighty temples, some of the best preserved anywhere in the Greek world. We travel to Velia, a beautiful ancient city of Magna Graecia. We continue to Sangiovanni, a splendid estate owned by Mario Corrado and Ida Budetta. Their passion for the unspoilt nature of the Cilento region, led them to relocate with their entire family - horses, dog and cats included. Day Five We devote a whole day to Pompeii. No other site can compare in revealing the scale and proportions of a Roman town. We visit some of the bestpreserved buildings,including the bars (the rich soil around Vesuvius was renowned for producing some of the best wine in the Roman empire). We visit several villas which have only recently re-opened to the public.

Symposium fresco from the Tomb of the Diver, Paestum.

Day Six We visit the town of Herculaneum, which perfectly complements a visit to Pompeii. The town was buried to a much greater depth than Pompeii - you wander through streets with almost complete Roman houses rising on either side, in some cases preserved up to their rooftops. We enjoy lunch at a local wine bar, before continuing to Naples, to visit the archaeological Museum. Many of the best wall-paintings and statues were brought here in the early years of the excavations at Pompeii. Day Seven We travel to Sta Maria Capua Vetere, an excellent Archaeological Museum that is home to Bronze Age, Iron Age, Etruscan, Ancient Greek and Roman artefacts. We continue to the adjacent second century Mithraeum - a gorgeous, well preserved sanctuary to the god Mythras. We also visit the interesting on-site Gladiator Museum. We will all gather for a farewell dinner tonight in a wonderful local restaurant – a fitting end to our tour. Day Eight We return home today.

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Pompeii & Amalfi ITALY Italy

The rugged contours and blue waters of the Amalfi coast. The volcanic soil made the area a favourite among Roman wine-makers.

Naples

Herculaneum Pompeii Amalfi

“I

regard those as wise who employ old wine freely and study old stories.” Plautus

Paestum Ruins

Santa Maria di Castellebate Velia

GUIDE LECTURERS Diana Blumberg is an archaeological scientist who specialises in the analysis of archaeological materials. She has worked on archaeological field schools in Pompeii and Portus, and also has excavation experience in the UK. Diana has previously led walking tours in Rome where she lived for two years.

WINE GUIDE WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Naples Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotel 2 nights in the heart of Ravello, one of the most beautiful cities in the world 2 nights in front of the Amalfi coast with a spectacular view of Capri 3 nights in a 4 star hotel in Naples within the luxury shopping area and a few metres away from Piazza del Plebiscito

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

Lys Hall is an established lecturer on the wines of Europe. Having been a wine guide for over a decade, she has a great knowledge of — and passion for — the countries we visit, particularly those of the Mediterranean.

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: AAA17A

129

BASILICATA & CALABRIA A

wonderful introduction to the unspoilt mountains and hills of the ‘toe and instep’ of Southern Italy - much favoured by ancient colonists though little-visited by tourists today. Journeying along the coast, we travel through more than 2000 years of an immemorial story. Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Norman and Spanish invaders not only ‘came and conquered’ but stayed – producing cities, castles and churches from the Classical period onwards. This abundance of sites includes some real treasures: the Codex Purpureus at Rossano, the Byzantine church at Stilo and the 5th century BC Greek bronze warriors rescued from the sea at Riace – two of the finest sculptures to have survived from the Greek world.

Sat 23rd Sep– Sun 1st Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Ed Bispham 9 days £2,495 (sgl supp £250; without flights £2,225)

• Italy beyond the tourist trail, with many unexpected treasures: Byzantine Stilo and the birthplace of Horace

• The World Heritage Site of Matera; a maze of rock-cut cave dwellings occupied for up to 9000 years

• The magnificent Riace Bronzes, now restored to their former glory at Reggio Di Calabria

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Bari and transfer to Matera. Day Two We explore the extraordinary Sassi of Matera, a network of rock-cut cave dwellings and later Byzantine chapels. We enjoy panoramic views as we drive into the Belvedere areas to explore Sassi further. This afternoon we have some free time for independent wandering. Day Three Early start to see the heartland of Norman Italy at Venosa, birthplace of the Roman lyric poet, Horace, and a major Medieval centre. We visit the Archaeological Museum, housed in a Spanish castle and the unfinished Norman Cathedral, La Trinità. After lunch we continue to Melfi, the first Norman capital in southern Italy, with a fine surviving castle and cathedral.

Day Four Drive across the instep of Italy and along the coast road to Crotone via the museum and excavations at the site of ancient Sybaris; once renowned for its easy, luxurious living. Continue to the hilltop town of Rossano, which produced two of Italy’s greatest religious treasures. The first is a small fresco of the 8th century AD; the second, and rarer, is the Codex Purpureus, a Greek evangeliary with letters from St Eusebius of Caesarea and the Ten Tables of Law from the 6th century AD. Day Five We visit the museum and old town at Crotone originally founded by the Greeks in the 5th century BC, and later the residence of Pythagoras. Afternoon at the well-preserved hill town with Norman and Spanish castle and cathedral at Santa Severina. Day Six A stop off at the sanctuary of Hera Lacinia before heading to Le Castella to see the remains of the impressive fortress. Drive to the Norman basilica and Roman excavations at Roccelletta di Borgia that have produced some sublime examples of Roman statuary, which can now be seen in the new on-site museum. Drive south down the coast to the lovely hill town of Stilo, with its gem of a Byzantine cross-insquare church.

St Mark writing his gospel guided by the Virgin. 130

The Sassi di Matera, an ancient town in Southern Italy.

Day Seven We visit another beautiful Medieval hilltown, Gerace, with magnificent panorama of the coast and sea from its belvedere. We explore the town on foot including the Spanish cathedral, the largest religious building in Calabria, reconsecrated in the presence of Frederick II. Our final stops today are to the ruins and site museum of the ancient site of Locri, one of the principal cities of Magna Grecia. Day Eight Drive through the mountains, past the attractive town of Scilla, home of the legendary sea monster which once terrorised ancient sailors. Our trip culminates with special access to the famous Riace Bronzes, wonderfully restored at Reggio di Calabria, believed to have been washed overboard from a trading vessel and rescued thousands of years later after a diver saw an arm reaching from the seabed. The two complete statues are now displayed to great effect. Day Nine We return home today.

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Basilicata & Calabria ITALY Melfi

Venosa

Bari Matera

Medieval hilltown of Gerace.

Italy

Sybaris

“H

e saw a hand and arm protruding from the sea bed. Closer investigation brought to light a complete and more than life-size statue of a young warrior. ” Description of the discovery of the Riace Bronzes by a diver on holiday in 1972

Rossano Santa Severina Roccelleta

Reggio di Calabria

Crotone Le Castella

Stilo Roccella Lonica Locri

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Bari; Reggio Calabria to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Hotels 3 nights set in an 18th century residence of Domenico Ridola 2 nights with views of the Crotone sea 2 nights stay a stone’s throw from the Ionian sea 1 night stay where you will be close to the sea front of Reggio

Special Access

All Inclusive

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

GUIDE LECTURER Edward Bispham is a scholar of wide interests. Currently Lecturer in Classics at Oxford, he is also a fellow of Brasenose College. He has been closely involved in classical archaeology in Italy, and was co-director of the Sangro Valley project, in the beautiful Abruzzi in Italy. He has directed excavations at Monte Pallano and San Vincenzo al Volturno.

looking to travel in autumn? You may also be interested in: Albania & Montenegro..............p.18 Crete & Santorini.......................p.74 Classical Sicily..........................p.106 Jordan|Petra.............................p.152 Kazakhstan...............................p.154

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: BAC17A

131

THE ETRUSCANS B

efore the rise of Rome the Etruscans dominated much of Italy. At the height of their power and prosperity during the 6th century BC, Etruscan power, influence and ambition rivalled the ancient Greeks and Phoenicians. In their homeland in the Tuscan hills, they built cities, vast cemeteries monumental tombs and a startling abundance of finely crafted objects. This is a beautiful and rural part of Italy, and we stay in just two hotels: a converted convent, and a 17th century palazzo. Our expert guide introduces hilltop cities, spectacular finds and lavish painted tombs. Life before the Romans: a fascinating alternative view of classical Italy.

Sun 24th Sep – Sun 1st Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Letizia Ceccarelli 8 days £2,350 (sgl supp £295; without flights £2,095)

• We have secured special access to the Tomb of the Lion and Pellegrina Tomb, beautifully decorated with Etruscan funerary art

• Explore every aspect of Etruscan life and culture from great cities to beautiful artefacts and everyday objects

• Beautiful scenery with sites spread across rolling Tuscan Hills, many of which later developed into charming Medieval towns

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Pisa. Day Two We spend our first day in Volterra, located on windswept, dramatic hills. Here we visit the Guarnacci Museum, famed for its cinerary urns carved from the local alabaster. After lunch, we walk through the town viewing Etruscan temple foundations, an Etruscan city gate, the Porta all’Arco, a well-preserved Roman theatre. Day Three Today we explore Vetulonia, an Etruscan city site located on a hilltop with views to the Tyrrhenian Sea. We travel to the little-visited tombs, and see a rare example of Etruscan domestic architecture, before viewing finds from the site in the wellfurnished museum. After a picnic lunch we continue to the coastal site of Populonia this afternoon.

Excavations at the site near Vetulonia. 132

Day Four We spend the day at Chiusi, the key inland city of northern Etruria. The collections in the excellent museum are drawn from the area, and include finely carved cinerary chests and tomb markers in local sandstone. This afternoon we have special access to some of the characteristic Etruscan painted tombs including the Tomb of the Lion and the Pellegrina Tomb. The interiors of both are vividly decorated with scenes of animals and humans. Day Five We visit Veii this morning. The site was at the southern limit of Etruscan territory, and Rome’s first Etruscan conquest. We explore the remains of the Portonaccio Temple, dedicated to Apollo. This afternoon, we visit the Villa Giulia Museum in Rome, which houses one of the world’s best collections of Etruscan art and artefacts including the masterpiece Apollo of Veii from Portonaccio Temple. Day Six We visit Tarquinia to see the archaeological museum and exquisitely painted subterranean chamber tombs. The museum has a fine collection of grave goods, including the remarkable terracotta winged horses from the Ara della Regina Temple. Over 6000 tombs have been discovered at the Monterozzi cemetery, which we visit next, making this one of the largest

Painted funerary casket from Chisui, with a scene of warriors in combat with Amazons.

burial grounds of the ancient world. We see a selection, with depictions of banquets and funerary games. Day Seven Today we have an opportunity to explore Orvieto, which the Etruscans presumably established because of the excellent defensive opportunities offered by the spectacular volcanic citadel. There is much to see in the town including two archaeological museums, ‘underground Orvieto’, and the magnificent Renaissance cathedral. After lunch we visit the Belvedere Temple Podium, and the small Etruscan cemetery of Crocifisso del Tufo, where family names are carved above the entrance to each tomb. Day Eight Our tour culminates at the remarkable Banditaccia cemetery at Cerveteri, a truly extraordinary Etruscan site. This is a real ‘city of the dead’ with rock-cut tombs under tumuli or arranged in rows along streets. Many interiors are carved to imitate houses and temples. One tomb even has painted relief depictions of armour, household goods, furniture, and the family dog. Transfer to Rome airport for our flight home.

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The Etruscans ITALY Pisa

GUIDE LECTURER

Volterra

An Etruscan necropolis at Populonia.

Chiusi Populonia

Italy

“T

Orvieto

he Etruscans are not a theory or a thesis. If they are anything, they are an experience.” D.H Lawrence, Sketches of Etruscan Places

Tarquinia

Castellana

Cerveteri

Veii

Rome

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Pisa; Rome to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Prehistory

Hotels 3 nights located in the centre of Volterra 4 nights in a hotel which is formed from a tangle of old houses, a convent, a former palazzo and it’s stables, making up an atmospheric complex dating from the 1600s

Greeks

Romans

Dr Letizia Ceccarelli holds a PhD in Archaeology from Cambridge University, where she lectures on ancient religion and funerary rituals. Her research mainly concerns the study of religious architecture and the material culture of the Etruscans and the central Italian populations. She works as a ceramic specialist for several projects in central and southern Italy.

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Historic Churches

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Tour Code: ETR17A

133

APULIA Caves, Castles & Cathedrals A

pulia is a fascinating area quite unlike the rest of Italy, characterised by high plateaux, coastal lagoons and lovely old seaside towns. This remarkable region has been home to many successive peoples and cultures, who have each left their own unique archaeological trace on the landscape, producing rock-cut cities and churches, and conical trulli. Apulia was a cross-cultural bridge between east and west, attracting new settlers whose influence was absorbed and adapted to this particular terrain. This is a wonderful exploration of how this diverse and beautiful region has been forged by the great sweep of history.

Mon 2nd - Mon 9th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Claudia Pinci 8 days £2,395 (sgl supp £240; without flights £2,145)

• The little-visited heel of Italy: discover Roman battlefields, dramatic rockcut churches and magnificent castles and cathedrals

• We enjoy a special visit to the Santomasi foundation - an atmospheric museum with beautiful collections and an impressive library

• The famous pepper-pot ‘trulli’ at Alberobello - built using the same

techniques from Prehistoric to modern times and a World Heritage Site

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Bari and pay an afternoon visit to the Church of St. Nicholas before transferring to our hotel in Trani. Day Two We enjoy a morning in the harbour town of Trani where we see the splendid Norman cathedral and harbour. We enjoy a full afternoon. We travel north to the attractive Church of San Leonardo di Siponto, which features fine Romanesque carving. Then on to Ascoli Satriano to visit the museum.We continue to Faragola and the recently excavated Roman villa. We finish the day at Monte Sant’Angelo, site of one of the most ancient Christian shrines in Italy. Day Three We visit Castel del Monte and the spectacular 13th century hunting lodge of the Emperor Frederick II. We move on to Canosa to see the tomb

Late Roman Basilical church near Siponto. 134

of the mighty crusader Bohemond. We spend the afternoon at Cannae, scene of Hannibal’s greatest victory over the Romans. In Barletta, we see the colossal statue of a late Roman Emperor, the largest surviving bronze statue from the ancient world. Day Four We enjoy a morning in the harbour town of Trani where we see the splendid Norman cathedral and harbour, thought by many to be the finest in Apulia. We travel on to visit Monte Sannace, a classic native Apulian site, with settlement from the late Bronze Age to the Roman period. In the afternoon we pass through the delightful medieval town of Goia del Colle and see its museum. Day Five We explore Alberobello, famous for its trulli, pepper-pot houses with corbelled roofs, the stones of which gradually taper inwards to a capstone. We move on to Massafra to see two medieval rock-cut churches decorated with Byzantine tradition frescoes. We end the day in Taranto, viewing the superb collections of Hellenistic and Roman artefacts in the site museum. Day Six We spend the day in the pretty seaside town of Otranto. Our first visit is to the Byzantine church of San Pietro and its excellent 10th century frescoes. The town’s Norman cathedral is famous for its medieval mosaic floor depicting

Cathedral of Trani in Puglia.

biblical stories. We also explore the massive Aragonese Castle, built as a bastion against the Turks who had captured Otranto in 1480. Day Seven We have the special opportunity to explore the underground vaults and adits of Otranto Castle. We enjoy a whole day in Lecce, the best-preserved Baroque city in the Mediterranean. We visit some of the churches, and the amphitheatre of the Roman city of Lupiae, as well as the museum. When Lecce became part of the Kingdom of Naples, it took on a new cultural identity, becoming the ‘Apulian Athens’. Between the 16th to 18th century, this status enabled the development of the ‘Lecce Baroque’, characterised by exuberant carving. Day Eight We return home from Bari airport.

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Apulia: Caves, Castles & Cathedrals ITALY Castel del Monte, a unique piece of Medieval military architecture.

Monte S. Angelo Manfredonia Siponto Barletta Cannae Canosa Trani

“T

hey say that kings are made in the image of God. If that is what he looks like, I feel sorry for God. ” Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor

GUIDE LECTURER

Castel Del Monte

Bari Alberobello

Martina Franca Massafra

Taranto Lecce

Italy

Otranto

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Bari; Milan to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 3 nights in a hotel which was a former convent based on the harbour of Trani 2 nights in an elegant establishment set in a beautiful green park, just outside the city of Martina Franca 2 nights in a 5 star hotel right in the historical heart of beautiful Baroque Lecce

Prehistory

Romans

Medieval

Claudia Pinci is a passionate Roman archaeologist. She has undertaken field work in both Italy and England. She is also a lecturer and an experienced tour guide. She has led numerous groups over the years. She knows the Ancient Monuments of Rome and its surroundings like the back of her hand.

curious about castles & cathedrals? You may also be interested in: Bulgaria|Thracian Treasures....p.24 Languedoc.................................p.60 Ravenna & Aquileia.................p.142 Venice at New Year...................p.150 Malta & Gozo..........................p.156

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: APU17A

135

Relaxed Siracusa W

ith a history stretching back almost 3000 years, the city of Syracuse has the rare accolade of being classed as a World Heritage Site in its entirety. At the heart of the ancient city is Ortygia, painstakingly and dazzlingly restored. We follow in the footsteps of the Greeks, Romans and much later civilisations who landed upon these shores. More than two thousand years later, we can still gaze out over the same harbour and imagine the cool blue waters heaving with triremes, Athenian arrows singing through the air. Discover not only Ortygia, but surrounding sites including the Greek Castle of Euryalus, the Roman Villa at Tellaro and the lovely Pantalica hills, honeycombed with ancient tombs.

Mon 9th - Sun 15th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 7 days £2,295 (sgl supp £190; without flights £1,945)

• Historic Ortygia, with its glorious piazzas and sea views • Verdant Pantalica, wonderfully alive with native bird and plant life • A relaxed approach to discovering Syracuse, with ample time to explore • All based in a charming hotel in Ortygia - a beautifully restored and chic area of Siracusa, across a causeway from the main part of the city

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Catania and drive to our hotel in Ortygia, Siracusa. Day Two We spend the morning exploring historic Ortygia on foot - walking from our hotel to the Temple of Athena, which has been assimilated, remarkably, within the fabric of the Cathedral. We also see the Temple of Apollo; the Fountain of Arethusa; and the Great Harbour, where we consider the sea battle fought between Syracusan and Athenian forces in 413BC, vividly described by Thucidydes. After lunch in one of the many chic restaurants in Ortygia, the rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the piazzas, cafés and sea views. You could choose to visit the Church of Sta Lucia to see the Caravaggio on display, or visit the museum devoted to Archimides and his inventions.

Day Three Enjoy a free morning to either explore the markets and sites of Ortygia or perhaps take a boat journey, sailing out of the Great Harbour where the decisive 5th century BC sea battle took place. After lunch we drive south out of the city to visit the hilltop city of Noto, famous for its Baroque architecture. Substantial rebuilding followed a severe earthquake at the end of the 17th century, when this flamboyant style was at its height. Known as the ‘Stone Garden’ because of the abundant carved foliage, the city is now a World Heritage Site. Day Four We travel to the palatial Roman villa with exceptionally fine mosaics at Piazza Armerina. More than 50 rooms have vivid scenes from mythology and real life, including the famous ‘bikini girls’ keeping fit! We spend all day exploring the complex here, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, described as a ‘supreme example of a luxury Roman villa’. Day Five We further explore the city of Siracusa, crossing to the mainland to visit the very fine Paolo Orsi Museum. We also visit the archaeological area surrounding the theatre and the vast stone quarries where prisoners of war were incarcerated after the Peloponnesian War; the amphitheatre and the Altar of Zeus.

A Roman lady enjoys her opulent surroundings in the wonderful Piazza Armerina Roman Villa.

After lunch we have special access to the Catacombs of San Giovanni – truly a necropolis (‘city of the dead’) since whole streets of tombs run off under the city above. Day Six We drive inland to the hills of Pantalica, honeycombed with ancient Sikel tombs and alive with wonderful plant and bird life - an opportunity to sample the wild side of Sicily. We continue to the town of Belvedere for a wonderful agriturismo lunch of local produce. We then visit the ancient Greek castle of Euryalus, a complex vital to the outer defences of the city and perched on a high ridge above it. Day Seven Fly home from Catania.

Remains of the Temple of Apollo, Syracuse. 136

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Relaxed Siracusa ITALY

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: The Cathedral at Ortygia, which hides a much older Temple to Athena within its fabric.

John Shepherd is Andante’s Director of Archaeology. He is an archaeologist who has worked extensively in the field in Europe, including Italy, France and Bulgaria. Much of John’s career has been focused upon Roman provincial archaeology. He worked at the Museum of London for over twenty years and was responsible for setting up the Roman galleries there.

Right: Greek theatre at Siracusa.

“T

he greatest Greek city, and most beautiful of them all. ” Cicero on Siracusa

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Catania Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 6 nights within a historic hotel overlooking the great harbour on the island of Ortygia. It has a rooftop restaurant, swimming pool and spa facilities

Small Group

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

interested in our relaxed tours You may also wish to view Relaxed Split.............................p.36 Relaxed Provence......................p.50 Relaxed Capri...........................p.112 Relaxed Tuscany.......................p.126

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: SIR17A

137

THE WINE OF THE GODS Classic Temples & Wine in Sicily

icily, the classically beautiful heart of the Mediterranean has been praised by poets and became the prize of countless cultures. The sun-soaked island is home to wonderfully preserved Greek temples, Roman villas and Norman cathedrals - many filled with glorious mosaics. Wine is also deeply rooted within the culture here, and has been made in Sicily for millennia. Enter a wine-lover’s paradise, with local vineyards producing an abundance of excellent, complex varieties. Taste the ‘wine of the Gods’ in an exceptionally beautiful setting.

Sat 14th - Sat 21st Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: TBC 8 days £2,750 (sgl supp £265; without flights £2,475)

Andante Travels have joined forces with Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours to offer a series of Wine & Archaeology tours

• Discover the best of both worlds: an irresistible combination of world-famous archaeological sites and mouth-watering wines

• Enjoy tastings and tours at some of Sicily’s leading wineries, from historic cellars in Marsala to cutting-edge producers in Menfi

• Discover a plethora of archaeological gems from Greek temples amid flower-strewn hills, to the glittering Medieval churches of Palermo

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive at our hotel in Palermo, in time for dinner. Day Two Our day begins at Palermo’s Archaeological Museum. One of the richest collections of Punic and Ancient Greek art in Italy is displayed here. We continue to Palermo Cathedral - its long history has led to the accumulation of different architectural styles, the last, was in the 18th century. We enjoy a special visit to one of Palermo’s magnificent Baroque Palazzi this afternoon. We dine at Cana Enoteca in Palermo tonight. Our Wine Guide will also lead an introductory tasting.

Day Three Our day begins in the best way – with a visit to a local winery. We stop for lunch at Rapitala – the estate is spreads over 225 hectares and slopes down from Camporeale towards Alcamo. The afternoon is free to explore Palermo. We re-join as a group tonight to enjoy a light dinner in Palermo. Day Four We travel to the archaeological site of Segesta. The area is breath-taking; flower-covered hills surround you. We stop for a light lunch before continuing to the Punic War Ship & Museum. The museum was installed in a traditional wine factory, and is part of the Archaeological Park of Lilybaeum. We enjoy dinner in Marsala this evening. Day Five We begin the day at the De Bartoli estate. Established in 1928, this familyrun company produce a broad range of varietal wines. We stop for a winery lunch at Donnafugata. The Marsala cellars, were built in 1851. Spend some free time in Marsala this afternoon.

Classic landscape of Sicilian vineyards. 138

Day Six We make our way to Selinunte, once one of the most important Greek colonies in Sicily. We stop for lunch at Planeta Winery in Menfi, which has established itself as one of the most dynamic and quality orientated wineries in the whole of Italy. We continue to Agrigento, home to Sicily’s

The Norman grandeur of Palermo Cathedral.

most impressive Greek ruins, where your afternoon is free to explore independently. We enjoy a light dinner at our hotel, a converted 13th-century watchtower, set on a hilltop. Day Seven We begin the day at the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento - which displays over 5000 artefacts illustrating the history of the Agrigento territory. We stop for a light lunch, before our afternoon exploring the Valley of the Temples - one of the most outstanding examples of Greek art and architecture, and a national monument of Italy. We enjoy a final dinner in Agrigento this evening. Day Eight We start the day at Morgante. The estate has been run by the same family for five generations and sits in serene countryside. We continue to the 200-year-old Tasca D’Almerita winery near Vallelunga. The enchanting place has hosted many famous personalities, notably the composer Wagner, who composed the third act of ‘Parsifal’ there in 1881. We return to Palermo and transfer to the airport for evening flights home.

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Wine of the Gods - Sicily ITALY Cinisi

Temple of the Dioscuri, from the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.

Palermo

Segesta Baglio Oneto

“L

et those who drink not, but austerely dine, dry up in law; the Muses smell of wine.” Horace

Sicily

Marsala Selinunte

Morgante Agrigento Valley of the Temples

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from Palermo to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotel We stay in a selection of hand picked hotels across Sicily, all perfectly situated for your stay.

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

WINE GUIDE Monica Murphy is a wine writer and expert who has been escorting Arblaster & Clare tours to the wine regions of Italy, and specifically Sicily, for over twenty years. She splits her time between her native Ireland and Italy.

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Historic Churches

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Tour Code: AAS17A

139

UMBRIA Archaeology in the Hill Towns U

mbria is the ‘Green Heart of Italy’ where between the woods and the Tiber a series of ancient tribes, cities and kingdoms competed for supremacy. The Umbrians, the original inhabitants from the 9th century BC, Etruscans and their centre at Perugia, Rome, whose highway, the Via Flaminia passed through, and the squabbling republics and city states of the Middle Ages with magnificent basilicas and churches.

Mon 16th – Mon 23rd Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Mr Peter Berridge 8 days £2,245 (sgl supp £215; without flights £2,065)

On our tour, we visit beautiful Assisi, Gubbio with its ancient bronze Iugivine tables of sacred law, historic Perugia, and fairytale-pretty Todi – Italic sites under Roman rule as early as 260 BC. We unravel the long and complex history of Umbria’s charming hilltowns, and their exciting and unusual archaeology.

• Over 2,000 years of history – from Iron Age tribes to Medieval hill towns – etched into classic Italian landscapes

• Based in just one hotel – an attractively renovated 15th century house on the plain of Assisi

• Includes a full day in Assisi. We reveal the hidden Roman, as well as the Medieval, monuments of the home of St Francis

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Italy to begin our Umbrian adventure. Day Two We spend a full day in Assisi, beginning with a climb to La Rocca Maggiore, the principal fortress which dominates the town. We continue to the ‘Roman Houses of Assisi’. Here we have special access to several well-preserved Roman villas excavated below the modern city. We end the day at the grandiose double Basilica of St Francis of Assisi. Day Three We explore Spello, which benefited from its proximity to the Via Flaminia. We visit the Roman gateways, the beautifully preserved Roman wall

La Rocca Maggiore, the principal fortress in Assisi. 140

and the church of Santa Maria Maggiore. The afternoon is spent in historic Bevagna where a large 1st century theatre has been completely embedded within later houses. A small temple was later converted into a church, resulting in a remarkable state of preservation. Day Four A day in Perugia, the capital city of modern Umbria and one of the great cities of the Etruscan League. Controlled by Rome from the 3rd century BC it played a vital part in the Roman Civil Wars. We visit the outstanding Archaeological Museum with a grand collection of Umbrian, Etruscan and other antiquities, and see the imposing Porta Sant Angelo, a Roman gate on Etruscan foundations. On to the cathedral of San Lorenzo in Piazza Priori and the Palazzo Priori.

Arezzo, Palazzo del Priori.

precipitous crags overlooking the river Nar. It is famous for its great Roman bridge which allows passage for anyone crossing between Latium and Umbria. We continue to the site of Ocriculum, which has been under excavation since the 18th century. On the banks of the Tiber, we find a ruinous town in delightful countryside. Today’s final visit is to Carsulae, a deserted Roman town with forum, temples and theatre.

Day Five We travel to the ancient city of Spoleto, probably the largest Roman colony in Umbria. We visit a first century Roman house with several in-situ mosaic floors. The Roman forum is now the Piazza del Mercato, and at one end of it, we find the monumental Arch of Drusus.

Day Seven We spend a full day in Gubbio – first visiting the magnificent Palazzo dei Consoli and museum which houses the Iguvine Tablets. These seven bronze tablets were found near the Roman theatre and are covered in writing in the Umbrian language. This afternoon, there is an optional visit to the Church of Sant’ Ubaldo, far above the town, where the Ceri are kept - three figures of saints, 4 metres high. The church is the finishing point for the annual ‘Corsa dei Ceri’ race.

Day Six We spend the day visiting the Roman sites along the Via Flaminia. Narni, birthplace of the Emperor Nerva, occupies a high spur on

Day Eight We begin the day at San Fortunato convent before ending our tour in Montefalco. We continue to Rome for our flight home.

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Umbria: Archaeology in the Hill Towns ITALY Gubbio

GUIDE LECTURER

Perugia Assisi

Ospedalicchio

The city of Spoleto, the Rocca Albornoziana and its grand Medieval aqueduct.

Spello

Peter Berridge studied archaeology at University College Cardiff. Afterwards, he spent four years working there researching Stonehenge. He became the head of Colchester Museums, in 1998. Peter has since moved on to research and writing on a wide range of archaeological and historical subjects, as well as conducting some freelance work in the museum and heritage sector.

Bevagna Montefalco Carsulae

Spoleto

Narni

“T

he Umbrian people are thought the oldest in Italy; they are believed to have been called the Ombrii, ‘the people of the thunderstorm’ by the Greeks.” Pliny the Elder

Ocriculum

Italy

Rome

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

curious about the medieval world?

Hotels 7 nights situated between Perugia and Assisi, this hotel was originally a 13th century fortress and later a manor which was recently restored

Just One Hotel

Cultural

Prehistory

Romans

You may also be interested in: Albania, Montenegro & Kosovo.p.18 Bulgaria: Thracian Treasures....p.24 The Etruscans...........................p.132 Umbria......................................p.140

Medieval

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: UMB17A

141

RAVENNA & AQUILEIA I

n AD 402 the Roman Imperial court fled from Rome to Ravenna, and for a period this was the political centre of what remained of the Western Empire. The result? An astonishing flowering of art and architecture created in the dying days of Empire. To this day, the city’s numerous churches, palaces and mausolea remain resplendent with shimmering mosaics...

ur journey begins in Aquileia, one of the great cities of the late Roman Empire, which played host to emperors and archbishops. We continue to Ravenna, one of the ‘must-see’ archaeological cities with unparalleled mosaics. We marvel at the artistry and explore the stories behind the glittering tiles: the struggles of a dying empire and the growing power of Christianity.

Mon 23rd – Mon 30th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Professor Tony King 8 days £2,395 (sgl supp £240; without flights £2,170)

• Look upon an astonishing flowering of decorative arts and architecture that highlight the glorious final days of the Roman Empire

• Heaven for mosaic lovers - some of the finest late-Roman mosaics anywhere, culminating in the glorious collections at Ravenna

• Special out-of-hours access to the Church of San Vitale, with a private evening viewing of the magnificent mosaics

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Venice and transfer to our hotel in Grado. Day Two We travel to Aquileia. Founded by the Romans in 180BC on marshy ground between the mountains and the lagoons, the city lay on an important route between eastern and western Empires, and thrived in the late Roman period. We explore the Cathedral, and the Christian and earlier mosaics under its campanile. We also walk along the port to the 6th century Church of Monastero and museum; and end the day at Aquileia’s National Archaeological Museum. Day Three We head into the foothills of the Alps to the first Lombard city of Cividale. We visit the Tempietto Longobardo, an exquisite ducal chapel with wonderful stuccowork. We visit Grado’s

Benedictine Abbey of Pomposa. 142

Archaeological Museum, which displays splendid finds such as armour, jewellery and glass from Lombard graves. After lunch, we explore Grado, a historic walled town with lagoon scenery. We stop at the 6th century cathedral, and the Churches of S Eufemia and S Maria delle Grazie. Day Four This morning we drive to Ravenna. En-route we stop at Concordia Sagittaria, founded as a Roman colony in 42BC and the site of an important early Christian basilica discovered and laid out below the floor of the present cathedral. We also visit the Abbey of Pomposa, founded in the 7th century. It has a fine 12th century mosaic floor and frescoes. Day Five Our first full day in Ravenna. We visit San Vitale, with the Mausoleum of Galla Placida, its tiny form smothered with rich and evocative mosaics. This great church is famed for its dazzling mosaics, especially the panels depicting rulers Justinian and Theodora. On to Theoderic’s Palace - built over the old site of the Imperial and Royal palace. We also explore the Church of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, built as the Royal Church by King Theoderic, and San Giovanni Evangelista – built by the Empress Galla Placidia. Day Six The second of our two full days in

Basilica di San Vitale.

Ravenna with its remarkable collection of churches and other monuments. Today we see the Arian Baptistery; the Neonian Baptistery; Ravenna Cathedral; the Bishop’s Palace, now a museum, with internationally important early Christian artefacts; and the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra, a richly decorated Roman house. We end the day at the National Museum, with time for you to explore the cornucopia of finds at your own pace. We have arranged a special evening visit to the Church of San Vitale to permit you to look at the mosaics in tranquillity. Day Seven Free time in the morning to spend at your leisure. This afternoon, we view the Church of San Francesco and Dante’s Tomb before leaving Ravenna to visit Classe, where we see the Church of Sant’Apollinare. Here there are more glorious mosaics. We return to Ravenna and visit the Mausoleum of King Theoderic. Day Eight We transfer to Bologna for our afternoon flights home or onward connections.

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Ravenna & Aquileia ITALY Italy

Gold-in-glass mosaic of Christ in the church of Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo, Ravenna - a Byzantine technique of the 6th century AD.

Cividale Aquileia

Concordia Sagittaria

Grado

Venice

“O

ur history now plunges from a kingdom of silver and gold to one of iron and rust.” Eutropius

Pomposa

Bologna Ravenna

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Venice; Bologna to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 3 nights in a 4 star hotel overlooking the harbour front of Grado which is close to bars, restaurants and the historic centre

Romans

Medieval

GUIDE LECTURER Professor Tony King is a lecturer in archaeology at the University of Winchester and a specialist in Roman religion. He has excavated extensively in Britain and abroad, including at Hayling Island, Meonstoke Roman Villa, Pompeii, Leptis Magna and Volubilis, and his interests spread across Roman Britain, Gaul and Italy. Tony is also an expert in the analysis of animal bones.

curious about the art of antiquity? You may also be interested in: Thessaloniki..............................p.72 Pompeii & Herculaneum..........p.96 Ancient Wonders of Sicily........p.102 Latium: The Roman Rich.........p.118 Venice at New Year...................p.150

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: RAV17A

143

TURIN FESTIVE FOOD N

estled on three sides by the towering Alps and Apennine mountains, Piedmont, of which Turin is the capital, is a region as famous for its gourmet delicacies as its feuding fiefdoms. Home to the Savoy dynasty and battlefield of many wars, Piedmont’s history is vibrant. Enjoy a Christmas that perfectly combines archaeological sites with Piedmont’s best local food and wine. Explore the wine cellars of Canelli and descend beneath Alba to the remains of the Roman and medieval city below. Learn how to make panissa among the rice fields of Vercelli and sample traditional Gramolino cake in the 15th century castle of Galliate.

Wed 20th - Tue 26th Dec 2017 Guide Lecturer: Professor Valerie Higgins Guide Lecturer: Rosetta Ferrari 7 days £2,495 (sgl supp £275; without flights £2,265)

• Discover excavations that lie hidden beneath the streets of modern day Alba • Enjoy a Christmas Day walk along the splendid avenues and piazzas of Turin followed by a traditional Christmas lunch

• Receive special access to the 16th century fresco cycle at the remains of the abbey of San Sileno

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Milan. En route to Turin we stop at Galliate where we are treated to a special welcome to Piedmont sampling traditional local specialities inside an impressive 15th century castle. Day Two During our first morning in Turin, we see how chocolate is made before exploring the Porta Palatina, original gateway of Julia Augusta Taurinorum and its archaeological park. After lunch we visit the Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world’s most important assemblages of Egyptian material. Day Three We learn the secrets of the beans behind the classic Italian espresso before we leave for the rice fields at

Lucedio – a magical site, rising from the low-lying mists of surrounding rice fields. We will make our own ‘panissa’, the local rice dish, which we enjoy at lunch. Spend some free time Christmas shopping this afternoon in Turin. We enjoy a performance at the Teatro Regio tonight. Day Four Start the day driving to Romagnano Sesia to view the 11th century frescoed cellar of San Sileno. We are joined by a wine expert who will lead us in a tasting of the region’s best local food and wine for lunch before heading to Lake Orta. With our own private ferry we cross the lake to the island of San Giulio. The frescoed interior of the church is striking and still has its carved Romanesque pulpit. Day Five - Christmas Eve Driving out of the city, we travel through the hills of the Monferrato to Canelli, and the famous cellars of the Asti Spumante wine. As well as being an attractive medieval and later town, Alba is the home of the innovative ‘Hidden City’ museum - a series of excavated and preserved sites beneath the city’s streets.

The Basilica di Superga in Turin, dedicated to Our Lady of Grace, whose statue is kept in the Chapel.

Day Six – Christmas Day We enjoy a leisurely start to Christmas Day - warming up with a glass of Bicerin – a delicious chocolate drink. Afterwards, we enjoy a tour through the splendid piazzas and avenues of Turin. After Christmas Lunch, an opportunity to visit the Basilica of Superga, the burial place of the royal family of Savoy. Day Seven – Boxing Day On our final morning, we get a view of the city from the iconic Mole Antonelliana tower before leaving Turin. We then visit the Abbey of San Nazzaro Val Sesia, a superb example of a 15th century Lombardo Gothic Church before stopping for lunch at a wonderful local restaurant nearby. We return home today.

We toast Christmas with a delicious Aperitivo Torinese in the elegant Piazza San Carlo before dinner.

Overlooking Lake Orta. 144

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Turin - Festive Food ITALY

GUIDE LECTURERS

Above: Asti, in the valley of Taranto. Right: Mouth-watering local delicacies.

Professor Valerie Higgins is currently Associate Professor and Chair of Arts and Humanities at The American University of Rome where she teaches archaeology. She is a specialist in the archaeology of human remains, with research interests including contemporary approaches to human remains.

“T

he peoples of the Mediterranean began to emerge from barbarism when they learnt to cultivate the olive and the vine.” Thucydides

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Turin Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Greeks

Romans

Hotel 6 nights located only a ten minute walk from Piazza Castello and other major sites in Turin. The restaurant offers classic Italian cuisine and free access to the on-site fitness suite.

Medieval

Rosetta Ferrari was born in London to an Italian family. She lived in Italy for many years where, among other things, she ran her own food business and became a member of the exclusive Italian society of cheese tasters. She has a great passion for food culture.

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: TUR17A

145

RAVENNA AT CHRISTMAS R

avenna and Aquilea, cities full of the churches and residences so typical of the time replete with unparalleled mosaics. While Italy struggled at the hands of barbarian invaders, the great walled cities, seemingly secure behind their defences, enjoyed a golden age of creation. Marvel at the artistry and explore the stories behind the shimmering tiles. The mists, lagoons and beautiful historic cities of the Po Valley make Ravenna a wonderful choice for a Christmas tour. We enjoy a traditional Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, a very authentic Italian celebration. Ravenna and Aquileia remain remarkably unspoiled. At Christmas we often have the splendid churches, tombs and abbeys almost to ourselves...

Thu 21st – Wed 27th Dec 2017 Guide Lecturer: Professor Tony King 7 days £2,195 (sgl supp £180; without flights £1,975)

• We enjoy special out-of-hours access to the Church of San Vitale, with a private evening viewing of the magnificent mosaics housed there

• Immerse yourself in a Traditional Italian Christmas during Midnight Mass and a festive firework display

• Discover the glorious final days of the Roman Empire – expressed in the finest late-Roman mosaics found anywhere

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Bologna and transfer to our hotel in Ravenna. Day Two We explore Ravenna and its remarkable collection of churches and monuments, including: the Arian Baptistry and Bishop’s Palace, which houses extraordinary early Christian artefacts from the city’s golden age. We end the day at the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra, an innovatively excavated aristocratic house with its own mosaic floors. Day Three We begin at the astounding complex of buildings around San Vitale. We continue to Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo, originally the palace church of Theoderic the Great, with wonderful mosaics. Finally, we visit Sant’ Apollinare in Classe, the ancient port of Ravenna. The great Church of Sant’

Apollinare is found here, with its glorious apse mosaics and array of great marble sarcophagi of 6th century bishops and notables. Day Four | Christmas Eve We leave Ravenna, stopping at the great stone Tomb of King Theoderic the Great. We continue to the abbey of Pomposa, founded in the 7th century in marshes and lagoons, with an arm of the River Po running on each side; it has a fine 12th century mosaic floor and frescoes. We stop at Comacchio - a miniature Venice of sorts - where we visit the Museo della Nave and its Roman ships. We then drive to Grado. On Christmas Eve a fireworks display, set to classical music, takes place in the Town Square. Midnight Mass is also a very important part of Italian Christmas tradition – be prepared to stay on your feet if you join the crowds – it’s usually standing room only. Day Five | Christmas Day Christmas day is spent exploring Grado and its lagoon. We will take a boat trip in the morning out to the sanctuary of Barbana Island, originally founded in 582 and now housing a community of Franciscan monks.

San Vitale Dome in Ravenna.

We stop to enjoy a traditional Italian Christmas lunch. Afterwards, you are free to explore the town at your own pace. Day Six | Boxing Day Aquileia is one of the greatest cities of the Roman world. We explore the Cathedral and mosaics found under the campanile. We walk along the ruins of the riverine port to the early Christian museum at Monastero. We spend the afternoon viewing the superb collections in the National Archaeological Museum. Day Seven We leave Grado and Aquileia behind and stop at Concordia Sagittaria to see one of the most extraordinary excavations of recent years, the Apostolic Basilica. We transfer to Venice for return flights home or onward journeys.

Cathedral of Aquileia, Friuli. 146

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Ravenna at Christmas ITALY

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: Theodora and her court glitter in mosaics from the Basilica of San Vitale.

Right: The Mausoleum of Theoderic.

“T

hose ancients who in poetry presented the golden age, who sang its happy state, perhaps, in their Parnassus, dreamt this place.” Dante, The Divine Comedy

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Bologna; Venice to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 3 nights situated in the bustling side streets of the old walled city, very near to the Basilica of San Vitale in the centre of Ravenna 3 nights in a small and friendly 4 star hotel overlooking the harbour front of Grado

Christmas New Year

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

looking for a festive archaeological break? You may also be interested in: Turin Festive Food................... p.144 Bologna Festive Food............... p.148 Venice at New Year................. p.150 Barcelona at New Year............ p.178

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: RAC17A

147

FESTIVE FOOD IN BOLOGNA D

iscover the home of tagliatelle, tortellini, mortadella, ragù and more. This unique tour will satisfy even the most voracious of appetites for food and for history! What better time could you find to taste the millennial fruits of culinary evolution than at Christmas? The Emilian menu includes some of Italy’s most famous products such as Parmesan cheese and Parma ham which have been made for over 2000 years, as well as the luxurious balsamic vinegar. This is an unusual tour for Andante - exploring the combination of the archaeological remains and gastronomic history of Bologna. Along the way we hunt for truffles, visit the city’s eclectic and fascinating museums and enjoy some sumptuous meals that would have satisfied even an Etruscan appetite!

Thu 28th Dec - Thu 4th Jan 2018 Guide Lecturer: Rosetta Ferrari Guide Lecturer: Tony O’Connor 8 days £2,595 (sgl supp £260; without flights £2,360)

• Enjoy the glories of ‘La Grassa,’ the Fat City of Italy -

towering medieval edifices and the best of Italian cuisine

• Visit some of the best museums in Italy, incorporating ancient river boats, intricate gold-working and fine Roman sculptures

• Hunt for truffles, make your own fresh pasta and see how Parmesan is

made, in the company of an archaeologist and an expert in Italian cuisine

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Bologna and begin by enjoying a cookery presentation of the city’s famous dish: tagliatelle al ragú. Watch as the simplest of ingredients are transformed into a sublime supper. Day Two We begin the day at the vast collections of the Archaeological Museum of Bologna. On our way to lunch, we walk through the old market streets and learn about some of the local produce including Bologna’s most identifiable product, mortadella. In the afternoon we visit the Basilica of San Petronio, and the church complex of Santo Stefano. Day Three We have an early start to see and taste the region’s most famous cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano produced at an artisan factory. Afterwards we visit the family run production of traditional

Balsamic Vinegar and here too we will sample the vinegar at its various stages of ageing. On the way back to Bologna we visit a vineyard where sparkling red and white wines are produced. Day Four - New Year’s Eve We travel to Ferrara and taste panpepato cake, first produced by local nuns many years ago. We visit the Este Castle, a moated medieval castle in the centre of Ferrara, and the cathedral. A walk through the historic heart of Ferrara to the Archaeological Museum where we explore the Gold Room, the Pirogues Room, and more before we visit the Palazzo Shifanoia. Day Five - New Year’s Day We enjoy a leisurely start to the morning with a stroll around medieval

dinner.

In Bologna we celebrate New Year’s Eve with a special

Bologna. In the afternoon we visit the archaeological collection at the Museum Palace in Modena and afterwards a short walk to the centre for a tour of the Duomo and the Torre Ghirlandina.

Photo courtesy of Marco Varisco CC BY-SA 2.0

The famous panpepato of Ferrara. 148

We enjoy a private rendezvous with a local tartufaio who will introduce us to the secrets of truffle hunting.

Towering Romanesque Catherdral of Moderna.

Day Six We head to the Etruscan town of Marzabotto where we visit the site museum and explore the excavated site including the extra mural cemetery, capitol and temples. Day Seven We travel to the western part of the region to Veleia, an important Roman centre of agricultural trade. We continue to the Archaeological Museum in Parma, home to an assortment of artefacts collected by the Farnese family. We view the superb group of Julio Claudian statues and unique Tabula Alimentaria from Veleia. We finsih the day with visits to the splendid cathedral and Gothic baptistery in the heart of the city. Day Eight In the morning, an opportunity to ascend the leaning Asinelli Tower on Via Rizzoli for a final view of the city. Enjoy some time in Bologna before lunch and an afternoon visit to a traditional gelateria where we discover the true ingredients and methods which distinguish gelato from icecream and sorbets. We will, of course, also sample some of the delights produced here, before returning home.

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Bologna Festive Food ITALY

GUIDE LECTURERS

The fine Romanesque interior of Ferrara Cathedral (above). A basket of black truffles (right).

“B

ologna is celebrated from producing popes, painters and sausages.” Lord Byron

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Bologna Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Tony O’Connor is a specialist in the Roman Empire and has excavated widely across Britain, Europe and North Africa. Tony is deeply interested in the study of Roman coinage, and is able to use his skills in coin analysis in his role as a museum archaeologist.

Hotel 7 nights stay in what was originally a 13th century guildhall. This hotel is in a pedestrian area next to the Basilicata of San Petronio, in the heart of the city. The Piazza Maggiore, the Leaning Towers, shops and restaurants are only a few minutes away.

Just One Hotel

Cultural

Christmas New Year

Prehistory

Romans

Great Cities

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: BFF17A

149

VENICE at New Year A

t the head of the Adriatic, floating on the ephemeral islets of the lagoon, is the city of Venice. We explore both the great churches, palaces and museums, and the lesser-known archaeological remains, still being uncovered. We visit the islands of Torcello and Murano, where underwater investigation has revealed much about the trade that underpinned Venice’s rise to greatness. This is a very privileged view of the city. We have special access to the iconic Doge’s palace, where we visit the cells and historic offices of state. We explore the once-mighty republic on-foot and by boat. Our tour culminates with a private evening visit to St Mark’s Basilica a chance to view the gilded ‘Chapel’ of the Venetian Patriarchs in splendid isolation, after the crowds have departed.

Thu 28th Dec – Wed 3rd Jan 2018 Guide Lecturer: Dr Eireann Marshall 7 days £2,945 (sgl supp £480; without flights £2,645)

• Special access to the Doge’s Palace, drinks reception at the Church of the Madonna dell’Orto and a private evening visit to St Mark’s Basilica

• By vaporetto across the lagoon to the evocative, almost deserted island of Torcello, home to the oldest buildings in Venice

• Wonderful festive atmosphere of Italian New Year’s Eve, with fireworks over St Mark’s Square

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Venice and visit the ruins of Altinum. Day Two We take a vaporetto across the lagoon to Torcello and visit the extraordinary 7th-century cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. We continue to the Archaeological Museum. In the afternoon we board a ship to visit the Medieval island of Murano, home of the Venetian glass trade. We end the day with a boat trip along the Grand Canal. Tonight, we have a private drinks reception, tour and lecture at the 14th century Church of the Madonna dell’Orto. Day Three We enjoy a day at the heart of power of the Venetian Republic at the Doge’s Palace - home of Venetian political power since the 14th century.

We have special access to the labyrinthine offices of the bureaucrats, and the cramped cells of the prisoners - including that of Casanova, who escaped his ‘inescapable’ cell in 1757. We continue to the Archaeological Museum and the Correr Museum which charts the story of Venice as an imperial trading centre. Day Four – New Year’s Eve We explore the power and art of the Church in Venice. We begin at the astonishing Basilica of St Mark, nicknamed the ‘Church of Gold’ for its truly opulent interior. We continue to the churches of the religious orders at the Frari and SS Giovanni e Paolo. We end the day at the parish churches open to a cross-section of Venetian society: architectural gems like Santa Maria dei Miracoli and the frescoed

Ornate ceiling of the Doge’s Palace, where we have special access.

day at the former Cathedral of the city at San Pietro di Castello. Day Six On our final day in Venice, we venture to one of Europe’s earliest industrial sites, the mighty Arsenal. The history of this site is displayed at the Naval Museum. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore. After a final dinner, we enjoy private access to St Mark’s Basilica - with views of the crypt, sacristy and treasury. Day Seven We return home.

We enjoy a gala dinner tonight, before heading out to watch New Year fireworks light up the sky around St Mark’s Square...

Fireworks over the Grand Canal at new year. 150

church of San Zan Degola. Day Five – New Year’s Day We tour the city, considering its principal bridges, including the Rialto - the oldest and most iconic in the city. We also explore Castello, home to vast historic naval dockyards. We end the

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Venice at New Year ITALY

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: Byzantine mosaic at one of the entrances to St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice.

Dr Eireann Marshall is a Research Associate and Associate Lecturer with the Open University as well as an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Exeter. She has published a number of articles and co-edited volumes on ‘Death and Disease in the Ancient City’ and ‘Women’s influence on Classical Civilisation’. Eireann is bilingual in English and Italian.

Right: The Arsenal and Naval Museum, Venice.

“V

enice, its temples and palaces did seem like fabrics of enchantment piled to heaven. ” Percy Bysshe Shelley

Special Access

All Inclusive

Christmas New Year

Hotels 6 nights in a traditional 14th century Venetian building and is one of the historical family run 4 star hotels in Venice, located close to the famous St Mark’s Square

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

looking for a festive archaeological break? You may also be interested in: Turin Festive Food................... p.144 Ravenna at Christmas............. p.146 Bologna Festive Food............... p.148 Barcelona at New Year............ p.178

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: VEN17A

151

JORDAN

Petra & the Desert Fortresses

othing can prepare you for Petra: only by then can you appreciate its scale, its colours and its grandeur. Lively, cosmopolitan and rich, with goods from every corner of the known world, Ancient Petra was an extradordinary city. Its streets were swathed in a fusion of Nabataean, and classical architecture — elaborate tombs, colonnaded streets, and temples carved into rose-red rock. Petra’s tombs and temples are only a fraction of Jordan’s story. We explore traces of biblical tribes, Roman legions, Christian crusaders and Islamic caliphates in this promised land of archaeology.

Tue 28th Mar – Thu 6th Apr 2017 Tue 10th – Thu 19th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Nick Jackson 10 days £2,695 (sgl supp £525; without flights £2,235)

• Spend two full days in the monumental city of Petra - home of the Nabataeans

• Explore the land of the Old Testament, where the stories of the Bible and Bronze Age archaeology meet

• Discover the mighty crusader castle at Kerak - one of the best preserved in the Middle East

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Amman. Day Two We begin at the remains of a well preserved Greek Palace that lie in a remote valley at Qasr-al-Abd. On to the Dead Sea, with the opportunity to swim - or more accurately float - in the salt-saturated waters. Day Three We explore two Roman cities today. We begin at Umm Qais, which overlooks the edge of the Jordan River valley, offering views over the Sea of Galilee. We continue to Jerash, set in the pine valleys of the biblical land of Gilead, and one of the best preserved Roman cities in the East. The architecture is particularly fine. Day Four Today we explore the dramatic basalt city at Umm al-Jimal –

even the doors are made of huge black slabs, and some of them still operate! On to desert castles, Qasr Kharaneh and Azraq, with farreaching views over the surrounding empty landscape. We end our day at the hunting lodge at Amra which has remarkable painted baths. Day Five We spend the morning in Jordan’s modern capital Amman. We visit the Citadel of ancient Philadelphia and its museum. This is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world, and is home to ruins of the Roman temple of Hercules and the palaces of the Omayyad Caliphs. We enjoy a special introduction and tour of the British Institute in Amman. We proceed onwards to Mount Nebo where we marvel at the 6th century Madaba mosaic map. Day Six This morning, we visit the church and mosaics at Umm Al-Rasas. A Roman and Byzantine site, the mosaic floor of the church includes depictions of the principal cities of the region. We continue to the mighty crusader castle of Kerak which was built by Pagan the Butler at the Order of King Fulk of Jerusalem in 1132.

The view of the Nabatean tomb, Petra. 152

Day Seven & Eight We enjoy two full days in Petra, ancient capital of the Nabataean Kingdom.

The “siq” the narrow winding gorge which leads into Petra.

We walk into the site, via the Siq, the famous entrance ravine. The city and its tombs cover a huge area, all built into the richly coloured rock – it is called the ‘rose red city’ for good reason. There are two (optional) climbs to the Nabataean ‘High Places’, which afford incredible views over the surrounding terrain. On the evening of Day 7, we have the rare opportunity to experience Petra at arguably its most otherworldly: swathed in warm candlelight on an evening visit. Day Nine Drive to Wadi Rum, where we take 4x4s through spectacular desert scenery, made famous by the filming of ‘Lawrence of Arabia’. There are also several fine rock art sites to be explored here, with carvings from very early times to the fairly recent past – this was how nomadic peoples left messages for each other. We also see the Neolithic site of Beidha, where prehistoric houses can still be seen. Day Ten We return to Amman for our flight home this morning.

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Jordan: Petra & the Desert Fortresses JORDAN

GUIDE LECTURER

Umm Qais Jerash

The colonnade of a major thoroughfare in Jerash.

Umm al Jimal Azraq Amra Qasr Kharaneh

Amman Qasr al-Abd Mount Nebo Madaba Umm al-Rasas

“V

ast, echoing and god-like. ” T.E Lawrence on Wadi Rum

Kerak Jordan Beidha Petra

Wadi Rum

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Amman Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Rock Art

looking for an iconic archaeology adventure?

Hotels 5 nights in a charming and comfortable hotel based in Amman, which is in walking distance to some of the major points of interest

You may also be interested in:

4 nights in a beautiful desert grotto style 4 star hotel situated in the historical district of Wadi Musa, close to the Petra ruins

Prehistory

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

China & The Great Wall.........p.32 Crete & Santorini....................p.74 Athens to Istanbul...................p.82 Pompeii & Herculaneum.........p.96 Classical Sicily.........................p.106 Peru & the Nazca Lines...........p.164 South Africa: Western Cape....p.166

Tour Code: Tue 28th Mar - Thu 6th Apr (JOR17A) Tue 10th - Thu 19th Oct (JOR17B)

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KAZAKHSTAN K

azakhstan was the land of the Saka and many other famous tribes – home of many glorious cities and nomadic empires in the past, as well as the scene of bloody and devastating wars. From its early beginnings, this large land in the middle of Eurasia lay at the junction of Silk Roads, and housed a multitude of cultures both sedentary and nomadic. By the 15th century the first khanates appeared, hinting at the single political entity that the country would become. Kazakhstan presents a majestic landscape - high mountains, green valleys, lake-dotted steppe, western deserts and remote underground mosques... and affluent cities. Join us on a varied and unique journey - passing through the lands of the ancient residents of Kazakhstan, and tour wild steppes where nomads lived in harmony with nature.

Thu 11th – Fri 26th May 2017 Sat 23rd Sep – Sun 8th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Gai Jorayev 16 days £3,775 (sgl supp £360; without flights £3,245)

• Discover the blue tiled wonder of the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi • View the thousands of petroglyphs decorating the rocks at Tamgaly from the Bronze and Iron Ages

• Explore the dead city of Sauran, a former hub of the Silk Road which now stands alone amidst the Kazakh Steppe

ITINER ARY Day One We depart from London. Day Two We arrive in Almaty. We visit the Boraldy Necropolis and Panfilov Park, where we see the WWII memorial. Day Three We spend the morning at AltynEmel National Park to see the burial tumuli of the Skae, Iron Age nomads. We continue to Tamgaly-Tas with its enigmatic Buddhist petroglyphs. Day Four We enjoy a morning in the mountains. We take the cable car up to Chimbulak to admire the Alpine scenery and Almaty Lake. Afterwards we visit the Central State Museum. Day Five We spend the morning at Tamgaly World Heritage Site. The rock art here includes an assemblage of petroglyphs dating from the Bronze Age.

Day Six In the morning we travel to the ruins at Akyrtas. In the afternoon we visit 2,000 year old Taraz its reconstructed caravanserai and the City Museum. Day Seven We take a look at the evocative 12th century Aysha Bibi mausoleum before heading on to Shymkent where we see the museum. We also visit Akyrtas Karluk and Aysha-Bibi mausoleum. Day Eight We spend the day in Otrar. Once one of the great cities of the Silk Road the great mounds of the dead city stretch over a considerable area. Our Guide Lecturer is actively excavating here and will give us a special tour of the site and his work. Day Nine We spend all day in Turkistan city. We visit the museum and the huge bluedomed mausoleum of the 11th century Sheikh Khoja Akhmet Yassawi. Day Ten We explore the remains of Sauran this morning. We pass through its still standing adobe walls to visit the ruins within. We move on to Sygnac. Founded in the 4th century AD, it was destroyed by the Mongols, vanishing into the dunes in the 17th century.

Waters of Almaty Lake. 154

Sand blasted ruins of Otrar, where our Guide Lecturer has excavated extensively.

Day Eleven After a scenic morning drive we enjoy lunch at Baikonur. We also visit the museum of space exploration. Day Twelve We briefly visit Russia by entering the Cosmodrome to explore the archaeology of space travel. We view preserved Soyuz rockets, the Buran shuttle orbiter and laboratories. Day Thirteen We fly from Kyzylorda to Astana, the modern capital of Kazakhstan. We stroll around some of the city monuments in the afternoon. Day Fourteen We spend a full day exploring Astana. Among the many fascinating sites here, we see the galleries of the National Museum, the Bai Terek Observation Tower, the Hezret Sultan Mosque and the Pyramid (Palace of Peace and Harmony). Day Fifteen & Sixteen Enjoy some free time this morning before proceeding to the airport for our afternoon flight home. We arrive back in the UK on Day Sixteen.

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Kazakhstan KAZAKHSTAN

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

Astana

Russian Orthodox Ascension Catheral, the grandest building in Almaty.

Dr Gai Jorayev hails from Turkmenistan but lives in London and works at University College London. He is a specialist of the Silk Roads and collaborates with UNESCO and UNWTO on research, preservation and management of that diverse heritage. He conducts archaeological research initiatives in different parts of Central Asia.

Kazakhstan Baikonur Kyzylorda

“A

strong man may defeat one hundred enemies. But a learned man—one thousand.” Abai Qunanbaiuli

Turkistan

Taraz Sauran Otrar Shymkent

Uzbekistan

Almaty

Kyrgyzstan

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Almaty via Amsterdam; Astana to London via Amsterdam Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

looking to travel the silk road?

Hotels 3 nights in Almaty 2 nights in Taraz 1 night in Shymkent 2 nights in Turkistan 2 nights in Kyzylorda 1 night in Baikonur city 2 nights in Astana

Low Single Supplement

Medieval

Eastern

You may also be interested in: China & The Great Wall.........p.32 Iran..........................................p.90 Uzbekistan...............................p.202

Great Cities

Rock Art

Historic Churches

Tour Code: Thu 11th - Fri 26th May (KAZ17A) Sat 23rd Sep- Sun 8th Oct (KAZ17B)

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MALTA & GOZO A

thousand years before the Great Pyramid at Giza was constructed, people on the tiny island of Malta were moving stones weighing up to 50 tonnes. At 5500 years old, the megalithic temples of Malta and Gozo are among the oldest ritual structures in the world - decorated with some of the most extraordinary art to be found anywhere in the Mediterranean.

Mon 17th - Sun 23rd Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Nicholas Vella

Led by an archaeologist specialising in Maltese history and archaeology, we explore the many ages of Malta: from those ancient temples through Roman rule and into the Medieval period. We also spend a day in Valletta, a World Heritage Site, built by the crusading Knights Hospitaller, having defeated the Ottoman Turks in the great siege of 1565.

7 days Apr & Oct; £2,150 (sgl supp £375; without flights £1,945)

Mon 2nd - Sun 8th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Jeremy Bennett

• Extraordinary prehistoric culture whose stone monuments predate the Great Pyramid at Giza by over 1000 years

• A strategic gem, coveted by empires throughout the ages – from the Romans to the British

• Special access to the dolmens and megalithic gallery grave at Ta’ Cenc ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Valletta. Day Two We begin at the two conjoined temples of Ta’ Ħaġrat and Mġarr, built during the 4th millennium BC. We continue to Skorba, an excavated settlement site which has made a significant contribution to the understanding of early Maltese prehistory. We spend the afternoon at the ancient capital of Malta, Mdina, a walled city with winding streets. We move on to Buskett to view the enigmatic ‘cart ruts’ cut into the hilllside, features that occur on both Malta and Gozo, worn into the bedrock. Day Three We enjoy a day exploring Valletta on foot. Founded by the Knights Hospitaller, following the Great Siege of 1565, this is a Unesco World Heritage Site occupying a commanding position over two harbours. We begin

Statuette Xaghra. 156

with the exceptional array of artefacts from Malta’s unique prehistoric periods in the Archaeological Museum, from man’s first arrival on the island, up to the end of the Bronze Age. We also visit St John’s Co-Cathedral and, if not booked for a state function, the Grand Master’s Palace with façades of some of the many Auberges of the Knights. Day Four By boat to the island of Gozo where we visit Ggantija, a prehistoric temple constructed of massive stone, and Xaghra, the stone circle and funerary complex associated with nearby Ggantija. We have special access to Ta’ Cenc prehistoric temple with dolmens and passage graves. This afternoon we travel to Victoria Citadel, the 17th century fortress of Gozo. We also visit the Archaeology Museum. Day Five Back on Malta we visit the magnificent Hagar Qim and Mnajdra - part of a cluster of temple sites evocatively located on a hillside by the sea. We continue to Tarxien, the most elaborate of all the Maltese Megalithic temples which has undergone extensive excavation and restoration. Continue to Ghar Dalam cave, which consists of a water-

The scenically located temple of Mnajdra.

worn tunnel accessible by humans for about 80m, in which large quantities of Pleistocene faunal remains were found, together with evidence for the earliest known human activity on the island. Day Six We take a Harbour cruise in the morning to view the port of Valletta from the sea. Afloat, one can imagine the assembled might of the Ottoman Turkish armada, estimated to contain up to 45,000 men. The siege, which lasted for 4 months in the summer of 1565, was a turning point, which undermined the perceived invincibility of the Ottoman army. As Queen Elizabeth wrote, “If the Turks should prevail against the isle of Malta, it is uncertain what further peril might follow to the rest of Christendom.” We return to shore for free time this afternoon - a chance for souvenir shopping and a final stroll in the old town. Day Seven Transfer to the airport for flight home.

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Malta & Gozo MALTA Cathedral of St. Paul in Mdina.

Gozo Victoria

“H

ere lies La Valette... Once the scourge of Africa and Asia from when he expelled the barbarians. He is the first to be buried here in this, the beloved city which he founded.” Burial inscription of Jean de la Valette, Grand Master of the Knights Hospitaller, 1568

GUIDE LECTURERS Ggantija

Mgarr

Skorba Malta

Rabat Buskett

Mdina

Mnajdra

Valletta

Tarxien Hagar Qim Ghar Dalam

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Malta Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Just One Hotel

Hotels 6 nights located at the entrance to Valetta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 5 star hotel offers views of Marsamxett harbour and Manoel Island. It is set within landscaped gardens, with it’s own private beach and it perfectly situated to explore the old town

Cultural

Prehistory

Romans

Medieval

Conflict

Jeremy Bennett is a British archaeologist, and is currently studying for his PhD examining Maltese agricultural terraces at Cambridge University. His research interests include prehistory, agriculture, landscape archaeology, geophysics, and topographical survey.

Professor Nicholas Vella is Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Classics & Archaeology at the University of Malta. He is a specialist in the archaeology of the Phoenicians, and is particularly interested in their religious beliefs and ritual practices.

Historic Churches

Tour Code: Mon 17th - Sun 23rd Apr (MAL17A) Mon 2nd - Sun 8th Oct (MAL17B)

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MEXICO REVISITED T

he varied landscapes of Mexico were the homeland of many distinctive cultures. Journeying from Mexico City to the Oaxaca highlands, we explore the legacy not only of the Aztecs and Teotihuacan but many other fascinating peoples: the Totonacs, Toltecs, the Cholulans, Zapotecs and Mixtecs. Sometimes allies, sometimes bitter enemies, they all shared the same calendar systems and worshipped many of the same gods. Yet they produced an array of strikingly individualistic styles of architecture and of art, many examples of which we see displayed in some marvelous local museums.

Mon 16th – Tue 31st Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: David Drew 16 days £4,295 (sgl supp £590; without flights £3,595)

• Beyond the Aztecs - a fascinating and unique journey discovering the myriad peoples of ancient Mexico

• Vast hilltop city of Monte Alban, recently named ‘World’s Best UNESCO Heritage Site’ by Which? Magazine

• From the jungles of Veracruz to the uplands of Oaxaca - superlative sites and some of the world’s finest museums

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Mexico City. Day Two We explore Mexico City. The modern capital was built on the site of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlán. We have special access to the remains of the Aztec Templo Mayor. Day Three We journey to the vast metropolis of Teotihuacan, one of the most impressive sites in all the Americas. Day Four We visit El Tajin, where work is revealing more about the mysterious lords of this city and their rituals of kingship. We continue to the Costa Esmeralda. Day Five Today we ‘meet’ the Totonacs, the people who first befriended Cortes

on his conquest. We visit their tombs at Quiahuitzlan in the hills above the Gulf Coast. Day Six We spend the morning at the Anthropology Museum in Xalapa. We continue to the colonial city of Puebla, founded in 1531 and with a vibrant mix of competing architectural styles.

158

afternoon we enjoy a boat trip on the canals of Xochimilco.

Day Seven Visit the nearby ritual landscapes of Cholula, home to probably the biggest pyramid in Mesoamerica. The amazing church at Tonanzintla with sculpted interior. Free afternoon in Puebla.

Day Twelve We fly to Oaxaca - the rugged terrain of the Mexican highlands. On arrival, we visit the Santo Domingo Church, lavishly decorated with over 60,000 sheets of gold leaf.

Day Eight We explore the sprawling palace of Cacaxtla. Onto nearby Xochitecatl, a purely ceremonial site, and home to the Pyramid of the Flowers.

Day Thirteen We journey from Oaxaca to Dainzu then Mitla, a famous and graceful late post-Classic site with unique stone mosaic designs on the facades. We also visit the town of Santa Ana del Valle.

Day Nine We start the day viewing rock carvings at remote Chalcatzingo. We continue to Xochicalco, centre of numerous civilisations. On to Mexico City. Day Ten We travel north to Tula, capital of the fearsome Toltecs in the post-Classic period, and to whom the Aztecs looked upon as their honoured ancestors.

Vivid mural from Cacaxtla.

The great city site of Monte Alban, a highlight of our tour.

Day Eleven Our return to Mexico City begins with a visit to the superlative National Museum of Anthropology. This

Day Fourteen We continue into the highlands to Monte Alban, the first truly urban centre in ancient Mexico. We return to Oaxaca for some free time this afternoon. Day Fifteen & Sixteen We visit Museo Tamayo Rufino to view the extensive collection of preColumbian art once owned by the artist. Fly Oaxaca to Mexico City for return flight to London. We arrive back in the UK on Day Sixteen.

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Mexico Revisited MEXICO

SMALL GROUP

Pyramid of the Niches at El Tajin.

Poza Rica El Tajin

Mexico Tula

“W

ho could lay waste to Tenochtitlan? Who dares assail the foundation of heaven?” David Bowles, Flower, Song, Dance: Aztec and Mayan Poetry

Teotihuacan Mexico City

Xalapa Cacaxtla

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

New World

Costa Esmeralda Quiahuitzlan Coatepec

Puebla

Monte Alban

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Mexico City Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

GUIDE LECTURER

Hotels 5 nights in Mexico City 1 night in Poza Rica 1 night in Costa Esmeralda 1 night in Coatepec 3 nights in Puebla 3 nights in Oaxaca

Oaxaca Mitla

David Drew is an archaeologist and writer who studied at Oxford and UCL. Having excavated in Peru for many years, he has been closely involved with a British NGO, the Cusichaca Trust, working with Andean farming communities to improve their agriculture through restoring ancient systems of irrigation canals and agricultural terraces.

looking for central & south american tours? You may also be interested in: Nicaragua & Costa Rica..........p.28 Chile & Easter Island..............p.30 Northern Peru.........................p.162 Peru & the Nazca Lines..........p.164

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: MAZ17A

159

ROCK ART in the Namibian Wilds T

he rock art of the Khoisan people, the focus of our tour, is a tradition which has continued over thousands of years. The story of this aspect of one human culture is brought to life with exciting immediacy by the stunning surroundings: landscapes almost unaltered by humans, and still populated by the same wild creatures depicted in the earliest art. Our guide lecturer Dr Paul Bahn is a well-known authority on rock art. More than half of this tour will be dedicated to experiencing all that Namibia has to offer beyond its past – excursions into the desert, onto the sea and by plane over the famous dunes (should you so wish), as well as plentiful game viewing. A trip of a lifetime.

Sun 8th – Mon 23rd Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Paul Bahn 16 days £5,500 (sgl supp £340; without flights £4,300)

• An all-embracing tour to Namibia: from rock art to game reserves and river cruises, we experience the many facets of this beautiful country

• Incredible rock art sites and incomparable landscapes, populated by the same living game depicted by the prehistoric artists

• Enjoy exclusive visits to remote sites that are inaccessible to the general public, where we see spectacular examples of Khoisan rock art

ITINER ARY Day One We fly from London to Windhoek. Day Two We arrive in Windhoek and drive west across desert to the coastal town of Swakopmund. We take the afternoon to relax and explore the town. Day Three There are two options this morning. You could choose to explore the flora and fauna of the Swakop Riverbed - a great introduction to the Namib Desert. Or, we have arranged an optional dolphin-spotting cruise. This afternoon you can join an optional private flight over Sossusvlei, or enjoy free time. Day Four We travel North along the Skeleton Coast. Along the way, we admire the spectacular beauty of the Spitzkoppe Mountains, and granite lances which rise sheer from the plain. We see a

number of rock art sites dating as far back as 100,000 years! We also visit the Bushmen encampment for demonstrations of their great skills in tracking and identifying wildlife. Day Five & Six We spend two full days in the Erongo Mountains – visiting numerous vividly painted sites in caves, mountains and shelters rarely seen by Westerners. Day Seven Today we head to the rock art around Omandumba West, at Leopard Cave and Swarming Bees. As well as the paintings, archaeologists have uncovered here some of the earliest remains of domesticated goat and antelope found anywhere in Africa. Day Eight We make our way to Brandberg Range, where we view some of the thousands of mural art sites amid some of the most photogenic scenery in Africa. We also visit the ‘White Lady’ shelter, with its complex mural designs. Day Nine Visit the famous petroglyph (rockcarving) site of Twyfelfontein, one of the primary sites for rock engravings. This afternoon we try our hand at tracking animals along the Huab Riverbed.

San Bushman stalking using age-old skills. 160

Art, storytelling or language? Rock Art at Twyfontein.

Day Eleven & Twelve We spend two days in the Etosha National Park, one of the largest game reserves in southern Africa. We have ample opportunities to spot elephant, zebra, giraffe and other African animals with game drives through the main part of the great pan. Day Thirteen Today, we drive south to the reserve at Okonjima, famous for its ‘Africat’ programme. Day Fourteen Enjoy a full day at Okonjima founded in the 1990s the Africat Foundation here aims to protect and rehabilitate Southern Africa’s characteristic big cat species, cheetah and leopard. We have the opportunity to track animals in their natural habitat. Day Fifteen & Sixteen A final morning at Okonjima before drive to airport for flights home. We arrive home on Day Sixteen.

Day Ten We head north to the little visited western Etosha National Park.

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Rock Art in the Namibian Wilds NAMIBIA

SMALL GROUP

Mushara

The ‘White Lady’ frieze in the Brandberg, most famous of the thousands of murals in Namibia.

Etosha Kamanjab Twyfelfontein

Okonjima

Brandberg

“T

he earth is not ours, it is a treasure we hold in trust for future generations.” Namibian Proverb

Okaukuejo

Ai Aiba Spitzkoppe Windhoek

Swakopmund Namibia

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Walvis Bay; Windhoek to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Small Group

Low Single Supplement

Cultural

Rock Art

LOOKING FOR PREHISTORIC TOURS?

Hotels 2 nights in Swakopmund 3 nights in Al Aiba 1 night in Brandberg 2 nights in Twyfelfontein 2 nights in Dolomite Camp 1 night in Okaukuejo 2 nights in Okonjima

All Inclusive

GUIDE LECTURER

You may also be interested in: Cave Art in Dordogne..............p.54 The Ice Man & His World........p.124 South Africa: Western Cape.....p.166 Sweden & Norway Rock Art....p.182 Tanzania & Zanzibar................p.184

Prehistory

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Tour Code: NAM17A

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NORTHERN PERU T

ravel through spectacular Peruvian mountain scenery, on the trail of some of the greatest of Andean cultures – the Moche, Chimu and the mysterious Chachapoya, ‘the people of the cloud forest’, warriors and traders who initially resisted Inca conquest and whose city of Kuelap towers magnificently above the Utcubamba Valley. A highlight of our tour is special access to the ‘mummies of Leymebamba’, found in tiny houses on a cliff face above the remote ‘Lake of the Condors’. The founder of the museum tells us their remarkable story.

Mon 8th – Thu 25th May 2017 Guide Lecturer: David Drew 18 days £5,250 (sgl supp £850; without flights £4,570)

Led by David Drew, this unique tour reveals the glories of Peru beyond Machu Picchu. See temples, pyramids and abandoned mud brick cities as we step into a lost world of Andean archaeology – little-seen and still being uncovered.

• Drive into the mountains of the Chachapoyas region – ‘land of the Cloud People’

• Enjoy a full day in Lima, including the National Archaeological Museum; and see beautiful views from Kuelap Fortress, a citadel in the mountains

• Meet the ‘mummies of Leymebamba’, 200 well- preserved Chachapoya mummies found at the Lake of the Condors

ITINER ARY Day One We fly from London to Lima.

continue to Huaca Prieta. We return to Trujillo and visit Cassinelli Museum.

Day Two A full day in Lima visiting the National Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Plaza de Armas and colonial houses.

Day Six We travel into the remote highlands and the ruins at Kuntur Wasi, the ‘House of the Condor’. Excavations have revealed tombs, temples and elaborately carved standing stones of the early 1st millennium BC.

Day Three We fly to Trujillo to visit Huaca del Dragon the great adobe pyramid. We continue to Chan Chan, the capital of the Chimu people, a vast city with acres of baked clay architecture. Day Four Still in Trujillo, we see the Temples of the Sun and Moon. Excavation within the latter is uncovering wonderfully preserved architecture and decoration. Day Five We travel north to explore the El Brujo complex, with temples and burial mounds of the Moche people. We

Day Seven We explore Cajamarca, with Spanish colonial architecture, including the Ransom Room. Enjoy some free time this afternoon. Day Eight We go north east, into the mountains of the Chachapoyas region – ‘land of the Cloud People’, as it was called by the Inca, who conquered them shortly before the arrival of the Spanish. Day Nine Enjoy special access at Leymebamba Museum to view the famous mummies of the Lake of the Condors. Day Ten We travel north to the immense stone fortress at Kuelap, where the mighty walls surround a large and complex settlement, begun c AD500.

One of the oldest churches in Lima. 162

Day Eleven We visit the mysterious sarcophagi of Karajia, home to seven 2.5 metre tall

Kuelap, the extraordinary archaeological site near Chachapoyas.

figures, made of sticks and grasses. Day Twelve Long but beautiful drive to Chiclayo. Day Thirteen We explore the royal tombs and the world-class Sipan Museum, where layer upon layer of personal objects from these burials are on display. Day Fourteen We travel to the newly excavated, very early site of Ventarron, with wonderful murals. We continue to Tucume, with its vast pyramids. Day Fifteen We wander through the market of Chiclayo and continue to the Andean chapel of San Pedro Morrope. Day Sixteen We travel to Caral, the oldest town in the new world, dating to 2600 BC. The pyramids here are 100 years older than those at Giza. Day Seventeen & Eighteen We visit Larco Herrera Museum, an 18th-century building constructed over a 7th-century pyramid. We fly home from Lima, arriving on Day Eighteen.

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Northern Peru PERU

GUIDE LECTURER

The ruins of Kuelap, located at the summit of a hill that rises on the left bank of the Utcubamba.

Peru

Mórrope

“T

he most handsome of people that I have seen, and their wives were so beautiful that because of their gentleness many of them deserved to be the Incas’ wives and to also be taken to the sun temple.” Pedro Cieza de Leon, discussing the ‘Cloud People’ of Chachapoyas

Chachapoyas Túcume

Chiclayo El Brujo Trujillo

Nuevo Tingo Leymebamba Cajamarca

Lima

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Lima, via Amsterdam Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

New World

Hotels 3 nights in a modern hotel in Lima 3 nights in an upscale hotel in Trujillo 2 nights in a contemporary hotel in highland Cajamarca 2 nights in a traditional hotel in elevated Leymebamba 1 night in Nuevo Tingo 1 night in a colonial-style hotel in cloud forest-ringed Chachapoyas 3 nights in a modern hotel in Chiclayo

Looking to travel in latin America? You may also be interested in Nicaragua & Costa Rica...........p.28 Chile & Easter Island...............p.30 Mexico Revisited......................p.158 Peru & the Nazca Lines...........p.164

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: NPE17A

163

PERU & the Nazca Lines M

achu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the enormous, enigmatic Nazca Lines — this is our classic tour of Peru and Bolivia. Explore the world-famous sites of the Inca alongside the intriguing remains of their lesser-known predecessors as we climb into the highlands to the ancient heartland of the Inca empire, which once covered over two million square kilometres... This is an iconic adventure — from rainforest temples to royal estates on the Urubamba; from colonial cities to breathtaking golden artefacts left by the earliest Andean civilisations. Peru is also home to some of the greatest biodiversity in the world — listen to chattering tamarins and calling capuchins as you watch for the brilliant flash of macaw wings.

Wed 6th – Tue 26th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: David Drew 21 days £5,495 (sgl supp £975; without flights £4,815)

• Discover the heart of Andean civilisation with David Drew, a leading expert in the archaeology of South America

• Visit world-class sites: Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Cuzco and many others • Fly over the enigmatic Nazca Lines, etched into the desert: hundreds of enormous, mysterious lines, trapezoids and images of animals

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Lima.

volcanoes. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day Two We explore colonial Lima and visit the National Museum of Anthropology & Archaeology.

Day Seven We spend the day in Arequipa, first to the Museo Santuarios Andinos, which houses ‘Juanita’, a young sacrificial victim of the Inca period.

Day Three We visit the regional Museum in Ica to see a wealth of artefacts. Day Four We visit the Antonini and Maria Reiche Museums. We continue to Cahuachi’s Nazca ceremonial centre. Day Five Those who wish can take an optional flight over the Nazca Lines. We also visit the fishing village of Chala. Day Six We drive to the city of Arequipa, 2300m high and surrounded by

Day Eight We make our way to Juliaca through magnificent scenery and visit the spectacular funerary towers of Sillustani, before continuing to Puno on Lake Titicaca. Day Nine We visit the restored Yavari Steam Ship. We continue to Bolivia and then Copacabana on the shores of the lake. Day Ten On the shores of Lake Titicaca we board our boat to the Islands of the Moon and Sun, sacred to the Incas. We explore the site of Pilko Kaima. Day Eleven We make our way to La Paz and tour the city centre. Day Twelve We visit the pre-Inca site of Tiwanaku and the outlying Puma Punku before moving on to Puno.

Andean women in traditional handwoven dress. 164

Day Thirteen We travel on the famous high-altitude train which takes us on a spectacular journey to the Inca capital of Cuzco.

Tiwanaku ruins, La Paz, Bolivia.

Day Fourteen We explore imperial Cuzco including the Inca Coricancha. Day Fifteen Our first visit is to the beautiful royal estate of Chinchero. Enjoy special visits in Ollantaytambo, where we are introduced to a variety of revived and thriving local crafts. Day Sixteen We spend an afternoon exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu. Day Seventeen We revisit Machu Picchu, before our afternoon return to Cuzco. Days Eighteen & Nineteen We enjoy a full day in Cuzco. On Day Nineteen, we travel to Pisac, to its imposing ruins and bustling market. Day Twenty & Twenty-one We fly from Cuzco to Lima and visit the Larco Herrera Museum. Then, we travel home, arriving in the UK on Day Twenty-one.

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Peru & the Nazca Lines PERU AND BOLIVIA

SMALL GROUP

Machu Picchu

Lima

Machu Picchu - the ultimate statement of Inca skill and power rises through the mists.

Ollantaytambo Cuzco

Nazca Cahuachi

“W

hen has it ever happened, either in ancient or modern times, that such amazing exploits have been achieved? Whose deeds can be compared with those of Spain? Not even the ancient Greeks and Romans.” Francisco Xeres, Conquistador

Chala

David Drew is an archaeologist and writer who studied at Oxford and UCL. Peru Having excavated in Peru Bolivia for many years, he has been closely involved with a British Puno La Paz NGO, the Cusichaca Trust, Copacabana Tiwanaku working with Andean farming communities to improve their Arequipa agriculture through restoring ancient systems of irrigation canals and agricultural terraces.

Special Access

Small Group

All Inclusive

GUIDE LECTURER

Cultural

Hotels 2 nights in Miraflores 2 nights in Nazca 1 night in Chala 2 nights in Arequipa 2 nights in Puno 2 nights in Copacabana 1 night in La Paz 5 nights in Cusco 1 night in Ollantaytambo 1 night in Calientes

New World

looking to travel in latin america? You may also be interested in Nicaragua & Costa Rica..........p.28 Chile & Easter Island..............p.30 Mexico Revisited.....................p.158 Northern Peru.........................p.162

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: SAM17A

165

SOUTH AFRICA the western cape D

iscover South Africa’s deepest origins, with access to the fossilised remains of animals who roamed the land 5 million years ago, at West Coast Fossil Park. View an array of rock art, depictions that have been created by the indigenous people of this land for thousands of years in Clanwilliam’s Cederberg Mountains. Alongside enigmatic archaeology, we also enounter South Africa’s darker history at Robben Island - used for the segregation of political prisoners and outcasts, notably Nelson Mandela. Explore a land of splendours: breath-taking mountains, world-class vineyards, and a history filled by a melting pot of cultures...

Tue 28th Nov – Thu 7th Dec 2017 Guide Lecturer: Jayson Orton 10 days £4,195 (sgl supp £480; without flights £3,495)

• Discover the rich history of the Mother City - from prehistoric rock art to the early colonisation

• Tour Langebaan, home of Eve’s footprints, left behind by an anatomicallymodern female 117,000 years ago

• Explore South Africa’s Western Cape’s glorious golden coast; and visit inviting vineyards of the Winelands

ITINER ARY Day One & Two We fly overnight to Cape Town. We arrive on Day Two and transfer to Langebaan. Free time this afternoon to relax or explore the lagoon. Day Three This morning we visit the West Coast Fossil Park. The park preserves a bone bed dating back an astonishing 5 million years. It contains the remains of the unusual and long-extinct shortnecked giraffe and sabre-tooth cat. We return to Langebaan for a boat trip around the West Coast Nature Reserve. The National Park is an intriguing spit of land that houses many Stone Age archaeological sites. Day Four We begin the day with a visit to Clanwilliam and Sevilla bushman rock art trail. The trail takes in a number of rock art sites in the Brandewyn River valley. These paintings were produced over the last few thousand years and are part of a

rich painted landscape in the northern Cederberg. We also visit Eland’s Bay Cave this afternoon. The rock shelter is located in a prominent coastal headland. Discover a rich record of 20,000 years of Later Stone Age life during our visit. Day Five We take a drive along the coast this morning to Cape Town. We enjoy a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain National Park this afternoon. The superb World Heritage Site is home to a wealth of complex plant life. Day Six We visit Iziko museum to view the pre-colonial and colonial collections this morning. This afternoon we make our way to Cape Point to visit the The Castle of Good Hope. Dating back to the late 17th century, this was the central focus and defensive position of the early Cape Colony. Day Seven We have special access to Solms-Delta Wine Estate, the site of extensive excavations. The estate dates back to 1690, although people have lived on the site and left their mark here for perhaps a million years. A rich Later Stone Age site, the ruins of the original dwelling, a social history museum and a music museum await our visit.

View from the Elands rock art cave, West Coast of South Africa.

Day Eight We visit the UNESCO site of Robben Island this morning. This was a place of banishment from the earliest colonial days – alleged lunatics, lepers and criminals alike found their way here. After lunch we visit Chavonnes Battery Museum, built 300 years ago to add to the fortifications of Cape Town. We end the day with a visit to the Slave Lodge, home to the Cultural History Museum which highlights the history of slavery. Day Nine Today we visit Fish Hoek Valley Museum, which houses 15,000 year old Palaeolithic remains. We walk to Peer’s cave where Palaeolithic finds were discovered. Day Ten We return home today.

Table mountain rises gracefully above Cape Town. 166

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South Africa: The Western Cape SOUTH AFRICA

NEW

Clanwilliam Elands Bay

The Castle of Good Hope, built by the Dutch East India company in the 17th century and the oldest colonial building in South Africa. West Coast Fossil Park

“W

Langebaan

e often looked across Table Bay at the magnificent silhouette of Table Mountain. To us on Robben Island, Table Mountain was a beacon of hope. It represented the mainland to which we knew we would one day return.” Nelson Mandela

West Coast National Park South Africa

Cape Town Cape Town International Airport

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights London to Johannesburg Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Prehistory

Hotels 3 nights in Langebaan, surrounded by heritage fishing villages, coastal views, and vegetation 5 nights on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, in a seven-acre riverside garden estate, built amongst spectacular vineyards

GUIDE LECTURER Jayson Orton is an Honorary Research Associate at the University of Cape Town. He has also engaged in academic research with a focus on Later Stone Age archaeology. Jason has conducted a large number of heritage impact assessments for a wide range of project types throughout the western half of South Africa during his career.

looking for prehistoric tours? You may also be interested in: Cave Art in Dordogne..............p.54 The Ice Man & His World........p.124 Rock Art in Namibia................p.160 Sweden & Norway Rock Art....p.182

Rock Art

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Tour Code: WCA17A

167

ROMANS, Visigoths & Viziers S

outhern Spain, rich in precious metals, wine and olive oil, has attracted the attention of many would-be conquerors over the centuries. From North Africa came the Carthaginians, superseded by the Romans who (true to form) built cities and criss-crossed the plains with 1000s of miles of roads. Then the Visigoths, fresh from sacking the city of Rome, built churches until they too were vanquished by the Moors. As Europe entered ‘the Dark Ages’ Al-Andalus flourished under its Moorish rulers who fashioned marvellous palaces, with arches, artwork and gardens that still grace Córdoba and Granada.

Sun 2nd – Sun 9th Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Andy Fear 8 days £2,195 (sgl supp £285; without flights £1,985)

From prehistory to the Renaissance, our tour progresses through the many ages of this vibrant, beautiful and fascinating region.

• Explore the Golden Triangle of southern Spain – vibrant Seville, Moorish Cordoba and Granada, home of the Alhambra

• Follow the scenic route of the Via Augusta over the Viadela Plata, discovering little-known remote sites along the way

• Led by Dr Andrew Fear, an expert in Hispanic archaeology ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Seville and drive to Itálica, birthplace of Roman Emperor Trajan, and home to many Roman remains, including one of the largest amphitheatres in the Empire. Day Two We enjoy special access to the Centro de Interpretación del Patrimonio Arqueológico – an archaeological park that hosts archaeology from a multitude of periods including Roman, Medieval and Moorish. We have an afternoon exploring Seville, including the Alcázar Royal Palace, built in the mid 14th century using Moorish craftsmen. We also experience a private visit to El Palacio de Lebrija; the 16th century palace known for its stunning collection of Roman mosaics that pave the entire ground floor.

Day Three We visit the Archaeological Museum in Seville - with gold jewelry dating back to the Iron Age, as well as Roman and later treasures. We travel on to Cordoba via Roman Carmona, an ancient city and fortress famed for its extensive rock cut tombs, and then visit the Roman village of Écija and see the mosaics found there. Day Four We travel out of the city this morning to explore the ruined Moorish palace of Medina Azahara, once the centre of government for almost all of Spain. We return to Córdoba, controlled by the Visigoths until the 8th century, when the city was conquered by the Moors. We explore the Mezquita (built as a Mosque with striped arches now an elaborate gilt cathedral). This afternoon we visit the Jewish Quarter and the Archaeological Museum. Day Five We visit the archaeological park of Torreparedones this morning, one of the most important sites in the region. Torreparedones was occupied across many eras but the site reached its peak during Roman occupation. After lunch we enjoy a special access, after hours visit to Baena Archaeological Museum.

Alcàzar of Seville. 168

The Alhambra in Granada.

Day Six We begin the day at the typically Andalucian city of Jaén – considered to be the world capital of olive oil. We see the museum which houses some wonderful Iberian sculptures. We have special access to Castulo, a ruinous and important Iberian city, scene of a major Carthaginian victory against the Romans in 213 BC, when 40,000 North African troops joined local Iberian mercenaries to defeat the Roman army. Day Seven A fitting beginning to the last full day of our tour is the magnificent Alhambra Palace, a Moorish and Renaissance fantasy set on a hilltop against the backdrop of the Sierra Morena. We devote our final afternoon to free time in Granada, seat of the last Moorish kingdom in Spain, conquered in 1492 by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. Day Eight We fly back to the UK.

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Romans, Visigoths & Viziers SPAIN

GUIDE LECTURER

The ruined Moorish palace of Medina Azahara. Córdoba Carmona

Ecjia

Jaén

Baena

Seville

“I

Granada

am the garden appearing every morning with adorned beauty; Contemplate my beauty and you will be penetrated with understanding.” Poem on the wall of the Alhambra

Málaga

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Seville; Malaga to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 2 nights located in the old Jewish quarter of Seville 3 nights set amongst beautiful gardens on a hilltop overlooking the city 2 nights situated in the heart of Granada; this hotel is the ideal base for our time in the city

Prehistory

Romans

Dr Andrew Fear is Lecturer in Ancient History at the University of Manchester. He is primarily interested in Roman history, with a passion for the history of the Western Empire in what is now Spain and Portugal. Andy is also deeply interested in the later Roman Empire in this region, the establishment of Christianity and the arrival of the Visigoths into Hispania.

curious about exploring the roman empire? You may also be interested in: Dalmatia & Dubrovnik...........p.34 Vintage Provence....................p.52 Roman Germany.....................p.64 Pompeii & Herculaneum........p.96 Meet the Romans....................p.110 Roman Lusitania....................p.170 Romans in London & Paris....p.198

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: VIS17A

169

SPAIN & PORTUGAL M

érida, the capital of Roman Lusitania was founded in 25BC by the victorious army of Emperor Augustus. During its imperial glory days, a large number of grand Roman monuments were erected; many, including the Forum, triumphal arch and amphitheatre, dominate the town to this day. The superb evidence of the impact of Rome here is the main focus of our programme, but it is enhanced by some spectacular prehistoric and Medieval sites along the way. Our journey takes us from the coast at Lisbon through beautiful countryside; we see prehistoric tombs, Roman towns, and the sites of the 19th century Peninsular War. Andy Fear is an expert on all things Iberian and will bring the distant world of Roman Lusitania to life.

Roman Lusitania Sun 16th – Sun 23rd Apr 2017 Sun 3rd – Sun 10th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Andy Fear 8 days £2,250 (sgl supp £290; without flights £1,995)

• Discover glorious Roman monuments and amazing feats of engineering in Spain and Portugal

• Enjoy a unique programme, taking in prehistoric and medieval sites from the coast at Lisbon into Spanish Extremadura

• Travel with Roman expert and Hispanophile Dr Andrew Fear ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Lisbon and drive to our Pousada hotel in Palmela. Day Two We travel by ferry to the site of Tróia, the largest fish-sauce production centre known from the Roman world. There are some 52 factories here in which the layers of salt and fish rotted to produce the ubiquitous sauces of the ancient world. We spend the afternoon exploring Évora, a former Roman town, and now a World Heritage Site. It still has Roman remains, notably, and in the late Medieval period was a favourite haunt of Portuguese monarchs. Day Three We have a specially arranged visit of the palatial remains at the major Roman Villa of Pisões, which is usually closed to the public.

Hillside view from Medelin. 170

We also see São Cucufate, a Roman villa that was rebuilt on a grand scale with gardens and a small temple. We glimpse the pre-Roman past at the major prehistoric site of Os Almendres, the largest group of megaliths in Portugal. In addition, we visit Anta Grande do Zambujeiro, the largest prehistoric burial chamber in the Iberian peninsula. Day Four Today, we travel to the border town of Badajoz, a town with a Moorish past, famously besieged by the British in 1812 during the Peninsular War. We visit the Alcazaba Museum, with its major collection of warrior stelae. We then continue to Mérida, named after the veterans who were settled here by Augustus. Day Five We spend a full day exploring Roman Mérida, a simple Spanish provincial town still dominated by the remains of its Roman past. It was important throughout the Roman period and beyond. The Roman remains are outstanding, including the bridge over the River Guadiana, a large amphitheatre, a splendid theatre, a fine circus and the ‘Temple of Diana’. At the Archaeological Museum we view fine displays of objects, including mosaics. Day Six We briefly leave the Romans behind to visit the castle at Medellín, the

Statue of Hernan Cortes, Mexico conqueror, Medellin, Extremadura Spain.

birthplace of conquistador and conqueror of the Aztecs, Hernan Cortés. This afternoon we return to Mérida for further exploration: including the Visigothic basilica of Sta Eulalia. Our Roman exploration continues when we visit the wellpreserved Roman circus nearby. Up to 30,000 spectators once gathered here to watch the chariots race. We also marvel at the Roman dam of La Proserpina, which stored water for Roman Mérida to be transported by aqueduct. Day Seven We visit the old town of Cáceres today, a perfectly preserved example of a Medieval town. Here we will visit the Archaeological Museum and tour the town itself. Day Eight This morning, we visit the huge arches of the aqueduct known as Los Milagros, standing over 30m high, which brought water from the dam to the city. We drive to Lisbon via the fortress town of Elvas. We have a chance to see another aquaduct there, before travelling on to Lisbon for our flight home.

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Spain & Portugal: Roman Lusitania SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

GUIDE LECTURER

The Roman theatre at Mérida, originally constructed in the late 1st century BC, with many subsequent additions and renovations.

Portugal Cáceres

“O

ur ancestors waged war and weared by it sought peace and paid tribute: for tribute is the price of peace.” Orosuis, Spainsh priest of the 5th century AD.

Elvas Lisbon Palmela Evora Troia Os Almendres Sâo Cucufate

Medellin Mérida Badajoz

Spain

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Lisbon Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Prehistory

Hotels 1 night in a polished, modern hotel based in a converted castle in Palmela 2 nights in an upscale hotel, surrounded by gardens, in Évora’s historic centre 4 nights in a former 18th century convent in lively Merida

Romans

Medieval

Historic Churches

Dr Andrew Fear is Lecturer in Classics at the University of Manchester. He is primarily interested in Roman history, and has a particular passion for the history of the Western Empire in what is now Spain and Portugal. Andy is also deeply interested in the later Roman Empire in this region, the establishment of Christianity and the arrival of the Visigoths into Hispania.

curious about exploring the roman empire? You may also be interested in: Dalmatia & Dubrovnik............p.34 Vintage Provence.....................p.52 Roman Germany......................p.64 Pompeii & Herculaneum.........p.96 Meet the Romans.....................p.110 Romans: Visigoths & Viziers..p.168 Romans in London & Paris.....p.198

Tour Code: Sun 16th - Sun 23rd Apr (SPA17A) Sun 3rd - Sun 10th Sep (SPA17B)

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171

ROCK ART OF ALTAMIRA D

ecorated 15-35,000 years ago, the caves of Altamira still displays some of humankind’s first great artistic achievements. This is a unique chance to view the vivid images of horse, bison and deer that have come to epitomise Palaeolithic art. We stay in historic towns in the hills of Northern Spain. A visit to an Ice Age cave really is a tremendous privilege; where else could you approach original masterpieces of such immense antiquity in situ?

Mon 15th – Mon 22nd May 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Paul Bahn 8 days £2,295 (sgl supp £290; without flights £2,125)

Led by rock art expert Dr Paul Bahn, we have arranged special access to numerous caves and rock art sites. View the images precisely where they were created, standing or crouching exactly as the original artists did.

• Special access to eight original painted caves, accompanied by renowned expert Dr Paul Bahn

• A uniquely close encounter with our Stone Age antecedants, frequently standing on the same spot as the artists

• See the juxtaposition of the most ancient art and the most contemporary with a visit to the Guggenheim Museum

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Bilbao and transfer to our hotel. Day Two This morning we drive to the facsimile of the painted cave discovered in 1969 at Ekain in the Basque country, with some of the most realistic colourful depictions of horse and bison. We leave the prehistoric era behind this afternoon, with a visit to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Note the stark contrast between ancient and modern art. Day Three We have an attractive drive through the mountains to the small cave of Covalanas, decorated with deer drawn entirely in red dotted outline. After lunch we visit the cave of El Pendo, which hides a panel 8.8m long of painted animals. Portable art in bone and antler was also found here,

Beautiful countryside around Santillana de Mar. 172

perhaps the tools used by the ancient artists to create their work. Day Four Today we reach the famous cave of Altamira; we approach the site on foot, a pleasant short walk up a country road. We see the superb facsimile of the cave and the museum. Continue along the coast to El Pindal, a cave set into the cliffs above the sea - one of the most beautiful and spectacular locations of all the decorated caves. Here there is a series of geometric signs, and a variety of animal figures, including bison, deer, a fish and an unusual painting of a mammoth. Day Five We travel into the hills to the south of Santillana, site of several decorated caves, two of which we will visit: Las Monedas is a large, labyrinthine cave in which bear bones were also found. The art found here is extremely homogeneous and it is considered likely that it was produced by just one person. The art of El Castillo, by contrast, clearly belongs to a number of different phases, and recently produced the earliest dates for cave art in the world, more than 40,000 years. There are hundreds of animal figures and 50 red hand stencils. The cave is so large, and the art so abundant that only a fraction can be seen during our visit. This afternoon there will be free time to explore the historic town of Santillana.

Painting by Abbe Breuil of a bison on the ceiling of Altamira.

Day Six We travel west along the coast into the mountainous region of Asturias to La Loja - a cave with some fine engravings which stand out clearly in white against the dark rock. This afternoon we see the huge and famous cave of Tito Bustillo which was only discovered in 1968 by a group of young cavers. The main panel here is one of the glories of Ice Age art. The cave is rich in artworks, but is most famed for a spectacular frieze of horses and reindeer. Day Seven We visit Candamo, where the most famous engraving is a big stag turning its head, and apparently pierced by many spears. We also view many other fine figures, some in surprising locations. Our final visit of the tour is to the Prehistoric park at Teverga, for a superb final overview of the caves, and their discovery. Day Eight We return home today.

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Rock Art of Altamira SPAIN

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Typical depictions of prehistoric bison in the caves at Altamira.

Candamo Oviedo

“I

was overcome with amazement, what I saw made me so excited I could hardly speak.” Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, who discovered the paintings at Altamira with his young daughter in 1879

Teverga

Santillana del Mar Bilbao

Altamira

El Pindal

Spain

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Bilbao; Oviedo to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Small Group

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 2 nights in a landmark 5* hotel in the centre of bustling Bilbao 3 nights in a newly built, traditionally styled mansion in the UNESCO village of Santillana del Mar 2 nights in a luxurious hotel with a Baroque facade, situated in the historic town centre of Oviedo

Prehistory

Rock Art

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Tour Code: ALT17A

173

PHOENICIANS IN SPAIN us as we tour Andalucia and the scenic coastal landscape of Join southern Spain and the western Mediterranean. Almost a synonym

for ancient Spain as a whole, Andalucia has been immortalised in art and music throughout history. The Phoenicians of Lebanon were one of the greatest trading powers in the ancient Mediterranean, and in Spain’s glittering metal mines they saw the potential for fabulous wealth.

rom Phoenician towns to Bronze Age Ibiza and sanctuaries in the Bay of Cádiz, discover the ancient cultures of southern Spain. We also explore ancient Cartagena, stronghold of the Carthaginian general Hannibal Barca — still considered one of the greatest military commanders in history.

Mon 22nd May – Thu 1st Jun 2017 Mon 2nd – Thu 12th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Fernando López Sánchez 11 days £2,795 (sgl supp £395; without flights £2,565)

• Explore Cartagena, founded by the Carthaginians in 227BC; and journey through the scenic coastal landscape of Andalucia

• Discover Carteia, a Phoenician and Roman town, originally founded as a trading settlement

• See another side of Ibiza - home of El Puig des Molins, the best conserved necropolis of the Phoenician-Punic culture

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Seville this evening. Day Two Today we visit El Castillo de Doña Blanca, a site which is home to both the eponymous castle and the remnants of an ancient city. We receive a special talk from the Museum Director on how excavations at the site revealed fascinating finds, structures, and telltale signs of Phoenician settlement. From here, we continue to the archaeological site of San Fernando. Inhabited since prehistoric times, the site paints a telling picture of the history of human settlers in Cádiz. Day Three We explore the Bay of Cádiz, including

the Sanctuary of Astarte. We also delve into the Castle of San Sebastián, built on what is thought to have been the site of a Phoenician temple, and discover the finds housed in Cádiz Archaeological Museum. Day Four Today, we travel to Málaga, an ancient city whose founding some 2800 years ago makes it one of the oldest in the world. On our way, we stop at La Silla de Papa, a late Bronze Age settlement, and the Punic-Roman city of Carteia. Day Five Today’s adventures include three Phoenician sites — Cerro del Mar, in Málaga; Los Toscano, near the mouth of the river Vélez; and Cerro de Villar, near the mouth of the Guadalhorce. Day Six This morning, we visit Morro de Mezquitilla and the necropolis of Trayamar. This afternoon, we explore Sexi, a coastal Phoenician colony where Almuñecar stands today. Day Seven Bronze Age archaeological parks are the order of the day, including: La Bastida, thought to be the site of a once powerful city with impressive fortifications; and Los Cipreses, an ancient metalworking centre

Palacio Consistorial, Cartagena, Murica, Spain. 174

Day Eight A full day is devoted to the beautiful port city of Cartagena, once known as

Central square in Seville.

the New Carthage. We explore the two millennia of its human settlement. Day Nine We travel to Denia to visit the Mazarrón Phoenician Boat Interpretation Centre, seeing Murcia Archaeological Museum and the site of La Fonteta port en route. We end the day with a ferry crossing to Ibiza. Day Ten We continue to the Punic site of Sa We have secured special access to the necropolis of El Puig des Molins — some of the earliest tombs here date from the 7th century BC, and each one is cut deep into the hillside. The site is also home to one of the two centres of the Archaeological Museum of Ibiza. Caleta, on a rocky headland north of Ibiza town. We move on to the Archaeological Museum of Ibiza. Day Eleven On our final day, we enjoy a free morning in the Citadel of Eivissa, situated in Ibiza’s charming Old Town, before returning home this evening.

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Phoenicians in Spain SPAIN

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

Tiered seating at the exceptionally preserved Roman amphitheatre at Cartagena. Spain Ibiza Denia

“T

he Phoenicians are entitled to be commemorated in history by the side of the Hellenic and Latin nations.” Theodor Mommsen, Historian

Seville Málaga Cádiz San Fernando

Lorca Cartagena Axarquia

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - London to Seville; Ibiza to London Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Prehistory

Eastern

Hotels 3 nights in Cádiz 2 nights in Málaga 3 nights in Cartagena 2 nights in Ibiza

Fernando López Sánchez received his Bachelor in history from the University of Zaragoza in 1997. He conducted post-doctoral research at Oxford University as member of Wolfson College. The main focus of his research is on the auxiliary military forces of the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire from Numidia to Scandinavia.

interested in our new tours? You may also wish to view The Cyclades by Gulet..............p.80 Relaxed Capri...........................p.112 Kazakhstan...............................p.154 Tanzania and Zanzibar............p.184

Tour Code: Mon 22nd May - Thu 1st Jun (PHS17A) Mon 2nd - Thu 12th Oct (PHS17B)

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175

FOZ CÔA Rock Art of Portugal T

his is a rare opportunity to visit rock art sites away from the beaten tourist trail, across the Spanish/Portuguese border region, in unspoiled countryside. The engravings in Portugal’s Valley were only discovered twenty years ago when they were about to be drowned as part of a huge dam project. An international outcry saved the rock art for posterity. It is not only the largest outdoor collection of Palaeolithic images, but also the only known place where rock art from the Upper Palaeolithic (c 24,000 BC) through to historical times is found together. There is an interesting comparison with the Spanish site at Siega Verde, just across the border.

Mon 11th - Sun 17th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Paul Bahn 7 days £2,095 (sgl supp £145; without flights £1,915)

• A gallery of rock art over thousands of years, spread over 17 km of river valleys (World Heritage Site), far from the tourist trail

• Free time to explore Porto, handsome city on the mouth of the Douro • Enjoy special lectures by archaeologists, conservators and researchers, who will give unique insights into their work to protect local heritage

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Porto and drive to our hotel in the winding streets on the north bank of the old town. This evening we enjoy an introductory lecture and aperitif before dinner. Day Two We board a train on a scenic journey along the green and pleasant Douro river valley towards Foz Côa. Drive to our hotel in the town in preparation for our first rock art sites in the morning... Day Three We begin, appropriately, at Canada do Inferno, where the first Palaeolithic petroglyphs were discovered in 1992. After lunch we continue to the site at Penascosa, another rock art site. This afternoon, we visit the rock art sites in the valleys, at Ribeira de Piscos. Some of the best-known of all the region’s images are to be found here.

Facsimile of a decorative panel at Fariseu. 176

Day Four We spend a full day at Penascosa, another rock art site on a hill overlooking the river and surrounded by olive and almond trees. The territory here is thought to have been suitable for the establishment of camps in the Palaeolithic period, and remains a beautiful and tranquil region. Day Five This morning, we visit Foz Côa Museum, housed in a beautiful modern building with plenty of space and light to view the intricate displays. The museum tells the story not only of the art itself, but also its discovery and the fight to preserve the ancient heritage of the region. After lunch, we take another lovely drive through rolling countryside towards Siega Verde. We explore the many rock art sites here, some of which date back some twenty millenia. The sites boast a menagerie of prehistoric wildlife, ranging from goat and bison to reindeer and woolly rhinoceros.

Lofty village of Castelo Rodrigo.

Day Seven Transfer to the airport for flights to London or onwards journeys.

Day Six This morning we visit the recently discovered area of artworks at Fariseu newly opened to the public. Situated close to the inflow of the Côa river into the Pocinho reservoir, this site was exposed when the dam was emptied. It is so unique that for a long time its authenticity remained the subject of hot debate. We end the day with another scenic rail journey along the river valley on our return to Porto.

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Foz Côa: Rock Art of Portugal PORTUGAL

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Spain

The Coa valley, vineyards masking the much older heritage of hidden stone age art and occupation.

“C

Porto

ôa Valley and Siega Verde provide the best illustration of the iconographic themes and organization of Paleolithic rock art... Together they form a unique site of the prehistoric era, rich in material evidence of Upper Paleolithic occupation.” UNESCO World Heritage List

Vila Nova de Foz Côa Foz Côa Valley

Siega Verde

Portugal

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Porto Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Small Group

Low Single Supplement

curious about prehistoric rock art?

Hotels 2 nights in a refined hotel in an elegant residential area of Porto, featuring casual and comfortable interiors and rooms

You may also be interested in: Cave Art in Dordogne..............p.54 The Ice Man & His World........p.124 Rock Art in Namibia................p.160 South Africa: Western Cape.....p.166 Rock Art of Altamira................p.172 Sweden & Norway Rock Art....p.182

4 nights in a small, charming familyrun hotel, close to the Foz Côa archaeological park

All Inclusive

Cultural

Rock Art

Prehistory

Medieval

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Tour Code: POR17A

177

BARCELONA at New Year B

arcelona sits at the heart of Catalonian culture, and possesses a captivating mix of ancient and modern architecture. From ancient Greek archaeology through to modern art and architecture, our tour examines the rich heritage that Barcelona and the surrounding area have to offer, all set against the backdrop of the New Year festivities. The city’s origins date back to the Roman occupation of the 1st century BC; but the region is also home to well-preserved archaeological sites from a range of other cultures including the Greeks and Iberians. From a more modern perspective the architecture of Antoni Gaudí spread throughout Barcelona, just cannot be missed.

Thu 28th Dec - Tue 2nd Jan 2018 Guide Lecturer: Dr Fernando López Sánchez 6 days £2,295 (sgl supp £295; without flights £2,045)

• Explore the ruins of Empuries and discover a history beginning with the Greeks and spanning over 2,500 years

• See in the New Year with Barcelona’s light show and firework display at the Magic Fountain of Montjuic

• Discover the historical heart of Barcelona during a walking tour of the Old City

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Barcelona and spend our first afternoon exploring the historic city centre on foot. The Romans founded the city and you can see evidence of building foundations from this time. The city is rich in medieval architecture, with many gothic churches and buildings spread across the city, including those created by the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. We finish the day with an introduction by our Guide Lecturer and a discussion on the region’s colourful history. Day Two This morning we travel out of the city to the ruins of Empuries. The history of this settlement spans over 2,500 years. It was first established by the Greeks and then subsequently occupied by the Romans. The museum of Empuries features artefacts recovered from the site telling a rich history of settlement

there across time. After lunch we head to Ullastret where we explore an Iberian settlement that dates back to the 7th century BC. Afterwards, we head to the museum and learn more about the history and the culture surrounding the site. Day Three Today we head to Calafell, a town with an interesting Roman and medieval history just waiting to be explored. We then travel to Tarragona to explore the equally rich Roman history of that town, visiting its amphitheatre, circus, and aqueduct. We stop for lunch here to soak up the Catalonian ambience before continuing to explore all Tarragona has to offer. On our way back to Barcelona we stop to admire the Arch of Bera and the funeral monument called the Tower of Scipios. Day Four – New Year’s Eve This morning we visit the Museum of Archaeology of Catalonia and explore the rich collection of artefacts from the region. We then head over to Barcelona Cathedral and explore the cloisters. This afternoon we visit the Museu d’Historia, which houses an enormous and ever-growing collection of artefacts from Spanish history, and the Museo Nacional d’Arte de Catalunya, which contains a thousand years of art from Catalonia.

Gaudí’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Família.

This evening we enjoy a New Year’s gala dinner. Afterwards, those who wish to can enjoy Barcelona’s New Year celebrations. We take in the Magic Fountain of Montjuic New Year’s Light Show, ringing in the New Year with a display of fireworks. Day Five – New Year’s Day Today we take a walk through the gardens of the temple of Sagrada Família, designed by Gaudí in the early 20th century. The temple consumed Gaudí’s final years and is funded solely by public donations. We visit Fira de Nadal a la Sagrada Família, a small traditional Christmas market held at Sagrada Família church. This afternoon we enjoy a visit to one of Gaudí’s other masterpieces: La Pedrera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We end the day with a spectacular viewing of Cirque du Soleil. Day Six We spend our last morning at the Caixa Forum art gallery in Barcelona. The gallery is housed in an old textile factory, highlighting the industrial heritage of the city. We return home this afternoon.

Best seats in the house at Barcelona Cathedral. 178

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Barcelona at New Year SPAIN

NEW

Empuries Spain

Roman amphitheatre at Tarrogona - for Gladitorial Roman games beside the seaside. Barcelona

Calafell

“T

here are no straight lines or sharp corners in nature. Therefore, buildings must have no straight lines or sharp corners.” Antoni Gaudi

Tarragona

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Barcelona Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Christmas New Year

Hotels We stay in a lovely selection of hand-picked hotels throughout our stay in Barcelona, perfectly placed to celebrate the new year in style

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

GUIDE LECTURER Fernando López Sánchez received his Bachelor in history from the University of Zaragoza in 1997. He conducted post-doctoral research at Oxford University. The main focus of his research is on the auxiliary military forces of the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire from Numidia to Scandinavia and the Hellenistic aspects of warfare and diplomacy.

looking for a festive tour? You may also be interested in Turin Festive Food................... p.144 Ravenna at Christmas............. p.146 Festive Food in Bologna.......... p.148 Venice at New Year................. p.150

Great Cities

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Tour Code: BAX17A

179

MEET THE VIKINGS T

he Vikings were great seafarers, raiders and traders of the Early Middle Ages. Far from being a race of barbarians, they presided over an extensive trading network. They fought with swords of Afghan steel, wore imported silk from China, and reached the coast of North America. Following in the Vikings’ footsteps, we make our own epic voyage across Europe. Beginning in York, we continue to Germany, Denmark and Sweden.

Sat 8th - Thu 20th Jul 2017 Guide Lecturer: Brian Ayers 13 days £3,925 (sgl supp £645; without flights £3,800)

We seek out trading towns, treasure, kings and longships. Led by Viking expert Brian Ayers, we trace the rise of this great civilisation whose ruthless skill inspired awe and terror throughout Northern Europe and beyond.

• Britain, Germany, Denmark, Sweden: a unique and epic sweep through the lands of the Vikings

• Raiders, traders, explorers and craftsmen; discover every aspect of this great Northern European people

• Sail and row a Viking longship. Visit runestones, kingly burials and the great trading ports of Hedeby, Ribe and Birka

ITINER ARY Day One We meet in York and take an introductory walk through the city. Day Two Today we plunge into the Viking era at the Jorvik Viking Centre with its fascinating recreation of life in VikingAge York. York was a Viking city after its conquest by Ivar the Boneless in AD 867. After lunch we continue to Yorkshire Museum to see their Anglo Scandinavian collection. Day Three We continue our exploration of Viking York, before driving to Manchester for our flights to Hamburg. Day Four We enjoy an introduction to Viking Germany at Hedeby, a major trading settlement on the coast. Our next stop is Ribe Viking Museum, a little to the south.

Day Five We begin the day at Baekke to see the stone ship setting and then to Ravning Enge where excavations have revealed the remains of a huge bridge, a considerable feat of Viking engineering. On to Silkeborg Museum to see the preserved body of the Iron Age Tollund Man, a victim buried and preserved in a peat bog. Day Six We visit the only known example of a ship burial in Denmark at Ladby where the excavated ship can be seen below a reconstructed mound. We also visit the Trelleborg ring fortress – one of a number of extraordinary, wellplanned circular forts built at the time of King Harald Bluetooth in the 10th century. Day Seven We visit Gammel Lejre – a major royal rural centre, with traces of settlements and burials. We travel on to Roskilde where we have special access to Roskilde Ship Museum. Here we have the chance to row and sail a Viking longship!

Ale Stenar ship burial in Sweden. 180

Day Eight We spend a full day in Copenhagen – viewing Viking treasures at the National Museum of Denmark. Afternoon optional walk around the highlights of Copenhagen’s historic

Grand Romanesque architecture of Lund Cathedral.

centre, or free time to explore the Danish capital at your leisure. Day Nine Into Sweden across the Oresund Bridge to Ystad to see the Ale Stenar ship burial and then on to the Swedish Trelleborg. In the afternoon on to Lund, once the meeting place of the governing body of Viking Sweden. Day Ten We visit Lund Cathedral before taking a fast train to Stockholm. Day Eleven We view the runestones and mound at Anundshög, a Viking assembly place. In the afternoon we visit Gamla Uppsala, the last stronghold of Scandanavian paganism. Day Twelve We take a boat trip to spend our final day at the great Swedish trading port of Birka where goods were prepared for their journeys throughout the Viking world. Day Thirteen Our last visit is to the complete Vasa warship. We return home today.

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Meet the Vikings DENMARK, GERMANY, SWEDEN, UK

SMALL GROUP

GUIDE LECTURER

Above - ship settings at Anundshög; Right - the fearsome prow of a Viking longship.

Brian Ayers is an archaeologist and Research Fellow at the University of East Anglia. He has previously been County Archaeologist for Norfolk and oversaw archaeological work at Butrint, Albania. He is particularly interested in the origins and development of towns on both sides of the North Sea during the early medieval period.

“O

ur supreme and holy Grace, protecting us and ours, deliver us, God, from the savage race of Northern men which lays waste to our realms.” 9th century prayer

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Manchester to Hamburg; Stockholm to Manchester Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Small Group

interested in the archaeology of northern europe?

Hotels 2 nights in York 1 night in Neumunster 1 night in Esbjerg 1 night in Aarhus 3 nights in Copenhagen 1 night in Lund 3 nights in Stockholm

Prehistory

Vikings

You may also be interested in: Hidden Amsterdam..................p.88 Sweden & Norway Rock Art...p.182 Kingdom of the Picts...............p.190 Orkney & Shetland.................p.192

Medieval

Conflict

Great Cities

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Tour Code: IVI17A

181

SWEDEN & NORWAY Rock Art R

ock art dating from the Neolithic through to the Iron Age is scattered throughout the landscape of Scandinavia. Our journey through Sweden and Norway takes us to the best of these enigmatic depictions - scenes of fighting, sun worship, chariots and boats that shed light on the everyday life and beliefs of the people inhabiting these dramatic landscapes over 3500 years ago. Led by expert Dr Tertia Barnett, discover a Scandinavia that you never knew existed - stone circles, cairns and carved boulders hidden within Sweden and Norway’s varied and dramatic landscape.

Sat 15th – Sat 22nd Jul 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Tertia Barnett 9 days £3,250 (sgl supp £545; without flights £3,050)

• Visit the impressive Oslo Viking Ship Museum, home to the world’s bestpreserved and first-discovered Viking ships

• Enjoy a leisurely afternoon gliding along the Alta River, taking in some of the spectacular scenery (and hopefully glimpsing some local wildlife)

• Marvel at vast expanses of rock art at Hjemmeluft, including a huge panel depicting over 1500 mythical figures

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Oslo and transfer to our hotel in Tanumshede. Day Two We visit the Vitlycke museum which provides us with a comprehensive overview of Norway’s ancient rock carvings. A short walk to encounter remarkable rock art dating to the Neolithic including the famous ‘Bridal Couple’, sometimes also called the ’Holy Wedding’. We continue to see some of the excellent, well presented Bronze and Iron Age rock art sites in the Tanum region – such as Aspeberget, Litsleby, Fossum, Tegneby, Backa and Ryk. Here we can see varied depictions of ships, warriors, weapons, horses and solar symbolism, including the giant 3m high carving of the spear wielding warrior at Litsleby, thought to be an Iron Age representation of Odin.

Boats depicted at Tanum rock art site. 182

Day Three We traverse attractive woodland and rolling farmland on the hunt for more rock art at Tanum. We enjoy an afternoon visit to Underslös Museum where we are met by the museum’s specialists. We receive a special evening visit in Tanum led by the museum’s curator, where we see the area’s carvings in torchlight, offering a completely different perspective. Day Four We travel north back across the Norwegian border to the Østfold region, where we visit the Solberg Tower interpretation centre, an innovative portal (with fabulous views towards the coastline). Here we explore the rich history of the surrounding region. This includes medieval castles and manors, but above all a fine selection of Neolithic rock carvings and other monuments. After lunch we visit some of these sites, including Hunn, where there are 9 stone circles in addition to burial cairns. We continue to Oslo. Day Five In Oslo we visit the Viking Ship Museum within the Museum of Cultural History. Highlights include the wonderfully elegant Gokstad and Oseberg ships as well as a host of archaeological material from elsewhere in the country. This

Hunn graveyard on the Ostfold Prehistoric Road, stone circles and burial mounds abound here.

afternoon, we fly to Alta situated in the far north of Norway. Day Six We visit Alta Rock Art Museum, the centre for the study and interpretation of the northern group of rock carvings, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many of these carvings seem to have been made by hunter gatherers along the ancient shoreline from as early as 5200 BC. Trails from the museum lead around the bay to a series of panels and friezes depicting clusters and herds of animals. We continue our exploration with the rock art at Hjemmeluft, which includes a huge panel with over 1500 figures, thought to depict mythical scenes from the prehistoric belief system. Day Seven We enjoy a further morning’s exploration of the rock art at Hjemmeluft. We then take a boat trip along the Alta River to see some of the spectacular scenery and hopefully some local wildlife. Day Eight We return to London via Oslo.

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Sweden & Norway Rock Art SWEDEN AND NORWAY

SMALL GROUP

Alta

Rock art at Alta, far to the North and Norways only prehistoric World Heritage Site.

“T

ertia was an excellent guide lecturer. Informative, interesting, and passionate about the subject and the tour.” Guest in 2016. Ostfold

Oslo Tanumshed Gothenburg

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Oslo & Alta Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Small Group

Hotels 3 nights in a 17th century former manor house in Tanumshede 1 night stay in an elegant Oslo hotel dating from the 1920s 3 nights in a polished hotel with modern rooms in northerly Alta

Rock Art

Prehistory

GUIDE LECTURER Dr Tertia Barnett currently works for the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland and is an Honorary Fellow at the University of Edinburgh. She is particularly interested in the rock art of Britain and North Africa, and the symbolic context of rock art and its relationship with cultural changes in the lives of its makers.

curious about prehistoric rock art? You may also be interested in: Cave Art in Dordogne..............p.54 The Ice Man & His World........p.124 Rock Art in Namibia................p.160 South Africa: Western Cape.....p.166 Rock Art of Altamira................p.172

Vikings

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Tour Code: SRA17A

183

TANZANIA & ZANZIBAR us as we safari through Tanzania’s rich and varied history. We will dip Join into the timelines to give you a unique and lasting experience of this beautiful

country, as we follow in the footsteps of the East African explorers, Burton, and Livingstone. We will visit the places they did, exploring that greatest of human iniquities - the slave trade. Then we travel inland and further back in time.

We go off the beaten track at Iringa to visit the camping ground of ancient hominins and see the rock art of later peoples. Then we journey to Kondoa to see some of the finest rock art in East Africa. Finally we safari northwards to the Serengeti to visit the world famous Olduvai Gorge and see the environments and animals that ancient humans hunted and fell prey too in this cradle of humanity.

Fri 8th - Fri 22nd Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr John McNabb 15 days £5,995 (sgl supp £500; without flights £5,395)

• Discover the legacy of Persian princes and Omani sultans in Zanzibar • Explore Olduvai Gorge – home of the oldest humans • Look out for lions, leopards, cheetah, giraffes and zebras on safari • Enjoy stunning coastal views and exotic experiences in Zanzibar ITINER ARY Day One & Two We meet at the airport and fly to Tanzania. We arrive on Day Two. Day Three We stroll through Bagomoyo, an important trading port along the East African coast this morning. We also visit the Catholic Museum and the Church of Dar Es Salaam. Day Four This morning will be spent in the National Museum, which houses vast collections of Tanzania’s past including the bones of Paranthropus boisei discovered by Louis Leakey at Olduvai. The afternoon is free to explore the city. Day Five We transfer to Zanzibar, nicknamed the ‘spice island’. We pay a visit to the Slavery Museum in the afternoon to get a contextual overview of the history of the slave markets and slave climate.

Day Six We enjoy a full day in Stone Town. You have the morning free to relax. In the afternoon we will explore more of Stone Town during a walking tour. Day Seven We travel to Iringa to see the Igeleke rock shelter and its well-preserved Bantu-style figures from the Iron Age, applied chiefly in ochre. Day Eight This morning we enjoy a specially arranged visit to the Isimila Stone Age site, where excavations are ongoing. In the afternoon we visit the local museum, which highlights the history of the surroundings. Day Nine We transfer to Tarangire, a major National Park in Tanzania and ‘the home of the elephants’. In the afternoon we enjoy a game drive. Day Ten We travel on to Kolo, where we visit the Kondoa Rock Art during a walking tour that includes three sites and spectacular views over the area. Day Eleven As part of the Kondoa experience, today we take a short trek up a dry river bed to a site with fascinating black and white rock art. We continue to Karatu this afternoon.

Kaole - remains of a Muslim settlement. 184

The rock art of Tanzania often depicts the wildlife that still roams the landscapes to this day.

Day Twelve We spend today at Lake Eyasi where we visit some local tribes. They have preserved their cultural hallmarks, such as trading with other groups and hunting with bows and arrows. Day Thirteen We have an early start to get to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a lush fertile landscape. The highlight of our morning will be the incredible Ngorongoro Crater, created by an exploding volcano three million years ago. We enjoy a picnic lunch before our afternoon game drive. Look out for vast herds of zebra, wildebeest and buffalo. Day Fourteen Today we enjoy a specially arranged visit to the famous Olduvai Gorge where we drive around and visit the local museum. Known as the Cradle of Mankind, this is where Mary Leakey and her team found the remains of homo habilis. Day Fifteen We spend our last morning in Shanga, before we return home.

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NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

Oldupai Gorge Ngorongoro

Landscapes of Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of humanity.

Karatu

Kenya

Tarangire

Dr John McNabb has been a Senior Lecturer in Palaeolithic Archaeology at Southampton University since 2010. He has researched widely within South Africa including Makapansgat. He is also involved in projects in Tanzania. John is the author of a number of books and articles on the British and South African Palaeolithic period.

Kolo Zanzibar

“O

lduvai Gorge gives us one of the most remarkable stories of the past — the last chapter of the Earth’s history, starting at the present day right the way back to 2 million years ago.” Louis Leakey

Bagamoyo

Tanzania

Kaole Ruins

Dar es Salaam

Iringa

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Dar es Salaam Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

curious about prehistoric rock art?

Hotels 3 nights in Dar es Saalam 2 nights in Zanzibar 2 nights in Iringa 1 night in Tarangire 1 night in Kolo 3 nights in Karatu 1 night in Serena

Small Group

Cultural

Medieval

Tanzania & Zanzibar TANZANIA AND ZANZIBAR

SMALL GROUP

You may also be interested in: Cave Art in Dordogne..............p.54 The Ice Man & His World........p.124 South Africa: Western Cape.....p.166 Rock Art of Altamira................p.172 Foz Côa: Rock art of Portugal...p.176 Sweden & Norway Rock Art....p.182

Prehistory

Rock Art

Conflict

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Tour Code: TAN17A

185

THE AEGEAN COAST of Turkey T

he ruined cities of Turkey’s Aegean coast were once some of the most powerful in the ancient world, from — if Homer is to be believed — the site of the legendary conflict between Greeks and Trojans, to the World Heritage Site of Hierapolis. Roman and Greek remains abound, in beautiful countryside, amid the ruins of cavernous temples, and in superb museums. While each of these offers a truly memorable experience, undoubtedly the star of our tour is a special access visit to the Roman terraced houses of Ephesus, whose painted walls and mosaics have been beautifully restored, and from whose curator we receive an exclusive talk. All this, in a landscape that offers rugged hills, sparkling glassy ocean, and traditional villages, on a journey that takes us from city to sea, makes for an unforgettable getaway.

Sat 16th – Tue 26th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Terry Richardson 11 days £2,495 (sgl supp £445; without flights £2,195)

• Gaze upon the mighty walls of Troy, as everyone has desired to do from Achilles, to Alexander the Great, to Constantine the Great, to Schliemann

• Great and famous Classical cities - Ephesus, Pergamon, Miletus, Aphrodisias - as well as evocative lesser-known ruins

• Beautiful landscapes of the Aegean Coast: blue sea, rugged hills, traditional villages still to be found away from the resorts

ITINER ARY Day One We arrive in Istanbul and transfer to our hotel overlooking the Bosphorus. Day Two We travel to Çannakale and continue to the site of ancient Troy, evoking Homer’s epic poem and the efforts of archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann. It is tantalising to imagine the Greek army ranged across the landscape, while Paris strode the walls of the city and Hector duelled with Achilles. Day Three This morning, we take a scenic drive high into the hills to the site of Assos, on a rocky ridge, one of the most beautifully situated ancient sites in the world. We also explore the wellpreserved Doric temple of Athena. Your afternoon is free - explore the site further or enjoy a swim.

Tetrapylon, entrance of Aphrodite’s temple. 186

Day Four We travel to the ruins of Alexandria Troas. The ancient city is home to an extensive array of Roman remains, including: the agora temple, its columns and reliefs; and a partly dugup odeion with two massive arched entrances. Day Five We spend the day at the great Greek city of Pergamon, where remains are widespread. Our explorations include the Acropolis, the theatre, and altar of Zeus. We also visit Pergamon Museum and the Aesclepium, an ancient medical centre. Day Six We enjoy a brief brush with the Hittites – an ancient Bronze Age Turkish civilisation - at the Karabel rock relief, then drive inland to Sardis, with its massive gymnasium and bath-house and finely preserved Temple of Artemis. We continue to Pamukkale, the limescale ‘cotton castle’.

The Hellenistic theatre at Pergamon is the centerpiece of the acropolis of the ancient city.

scenery to the site of Aphrodisias. The mountains produced fine white marble. Day Nine We spend the morning at Priene, set on a peaceful wooded hillside. The Temple of Athena stands as a substantial ruin. We follow in the footsteps of the Greeks to Didyma, a huge temple which housed a shrine to Apollo. We end the day at Miletus, home of philosophers and scientists. Day Ten Our tour culminates at Ephesus, one of the highlights of western Turkey. We have special access to the Roman terraced houses of Ephesus, with painted walls and mosaics now beautifully restored, with a talk from the curator.habilis.

Day Seven We explore ancient Hierapolis, with extensive tombs, a ‘Plutonium’ (shrine to the underworld deity Pluto) and oracular Temple of Apollo. The limescale formations with cascading pools and hot springs make this site very picturesque.

After exploring the city we visit the newly reopened museum, housing treasures from the site. We end the day at the fortifications and Basilica of St John at Selçuk.

Day Eight We travel east up the valley of the Maeander river, through magnificent

Day Eleven We drive to Izmir for our flights home via Istanbul.

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The Aegean Coast of Turkey TURKEY Tekirdag

GUIDE LECTURER

Istanbul

The Library of Celsus is an ancient Roman building in Ephesus. Troy Alexandria Troas Assos Ayvalik Pergamon

“S

ing, goddess, of Achilles ruinious anger Which brought ten thousand pains to the Achaeans, And cast the souls of many stalwart heroes To Hades... Illiad, Homer

Izmir

Karabel Sardis

Ephesus Priene Miletus

Selçuk Kusadasi

Turkey

Hierapolis Pamukkale Aphrodisias

Didyma

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Istanbul Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Prehistory

Hotels 1 night in a 5* hotel in Tekirdag 2 nights in a stately hotel in Assos, with views over the Aegean 1 night in a hillside hotel in Ayvalik 1 night in a contemporary Izmir hotel 2 nights in a spa hotel in Pamukkale 3 nights in an upscale waterfront hotel in the beach resort town of Kusadasi

Greeks

Romans

Medieval

thinking of exploring the aegean? You may also be interested in: Crete & Santorini.....................p.74 The Cyclades by Gulet.............p.80 Anatolia & Cappadocia............p.188

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: AEG17A

187

TURKEY

Anatolia & Cappadocia

ur highly recommended tour takes travellers on a kaleidoscopic journey through the heartlands of Turkey. Beginning in Çatal Höyük, arguably the earliest city in the world, we continue to Hittite Hattuša and the Phrygian capital of King Midas. Central Anatolia is a beautiful region of mountains and plains, where early farmers settled down to build permanent occupation sites and temples to their gods. The otherworldly geology of Cappadocia is matched by the unique archaeology: underground cities and vividly frescoed churches carved high in the rocks.

Fri 6th - Mon 16th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Michael Brown 11 days £2,495 (sgl supp £435; without flights £2,125)

• Journey through millennia – from the important Neolithic city of Çatal Höyük, to the elegant monuments of pre-Ottoman Turkey

• Extraordinary volcanic landscapes: including an underground city and a rock-cut monastery in the pinnacles of Tufa

• Full day exploring the ‘utterly spectacular’ mountain city of Kerkenes Daǧ ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Konya via Istanbul, and transfer to our hotel. Day Two We begin with a visit to Çatal Höyük, arguably the oldest city in the world - one of the largest and strangest sites of the Neolithic period. First excavated in the early 1960s, work has recently resumed, and the mound has been shown to be closely packed with houses dating to 7400- 6000 BC. We return to Konya, and explore the Mevlana Museum of the ‘whirling dervishes’. Day Three We travel across the Konya plain to the foothills of the Taurus mountains. At Irviz, we visit a magnificent carved rock relief depicts the 8th century BC Iron Age ruler King Warpalawa paying homage to the local storm god, Tarhunza. We continue to Urgüp.

One of many of the regions painted churches. 188

Day Four We spend the day in the Ihlara Valley, a most beautiful, verdant gorge occupied by a fast-flowing river. Early Christian communities worshipped here in rock-cut, frescoed churches. We continue to the impressive Neolithic mound of Aşıklı Höyük with closely packed layers of building created over the centuries. Day Five We travel to the extraordinary underground city of Derinkuyu. This is one of the largest and most accessible of many such Byzantine settlements. Little is known of their true function, however, with such a geology at their disposal, it may almost have been as easy to dig down as build up. We also visit the museum at Niğde and the rock-cut monastery at Eski Gümüşler. Day Six We explore the fairy-tale landscapes of Göreme, characterised by eroded volcanic tuffs, and full of the churches of devout Christian communities. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the ‘fairy chimneys’ of Göreme. Day Seven We enjoy a full day in Kerkenes Dağ, forgotten mountain city thought to have been occupied from the Bronze Age. The site is dominated by huge Iron Age fortifications - around five miles of stone walls. We end the day at the museum at Yozgat, which contains finds from Kerkenes Dağ.

The lion gate at Hattusa, entrance to the capital city of the Hititte empire.

Day Eight We view the open-air shrine of Yazılıkaya, with carvings showing processions of the gods of the Hittite pantheon. This afternoon we visit Hattuša, capital of the Hittites, Anatolia’s great Bronze Age kingdom which flourished from 1600 BC. Day Nine We travel to Alaca Höyük, site of an important late Hittite settlement. We move on to Ankara to explore the Ataturk Mausoleum. We enjoy a special tour of the British Institute at Ankara to hear about some of the research undertaken there. Day Ten We explore Gordion, where excavations have revealed large parts of the citadel with its impressive stone gate. It is most famous for the large number of tumuli surrounding the site. Our final afternoon is spent at Ankara’s Museum of Anatolian Civilisations. Day Eleven We travel home from Ankara via Istanbul.

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Turkey: Anatolia & Cappadocia TURKEY Hattuşa / Bogazkale

Ankara

Characteristic ‘fairy chimneys’ the conical tufts of volcanic rock in Goreme, Cappodocia.

Yozgat Kerkenes Dağı Turkey

“A

s I tread over its soil, I feel a tingling in my feet, knowing that buried beneath me are the abundant remains of a town inhabited from 9,400 until 8,000 years ago.” Ian Hodder, describing Catal Hoyuk.

Göreme Aşıklı Köyü

Urgüp Derinkuyu

Ihlara Vadisi Konya

Niğde Çatalhöyük

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 2 nights in a laid-back, casual hotel with contemporary decor in Konya 4 nights in a beautifully designed modern hotel in Ürgüp 2 nights in a comfortable hotel in the centre of Bogazkale 2 nights in a luxurious, palatial hotel near the centre of Ankara

Prehistory

Medieval

GUIDE LECTURER Dr Michael Brown currently works for Edinburgh University and is an Honorary Research Fellow at Durham University. He is especially interested in landscape archaeology, together with the expansion of the Hittite Empire during the Late Bronze Age. His research uses declassified cold war spy-satellite photographs to identify ancient cities and roads.

interested in spring tours? You may also wish to view Albania: Land of the Eagles........p.16 North Cyprus............................p.40 Malta & Gozo...........................p.156 Romans, Visigoths & Viziers...p.168

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: ANT17A

189

KINGDOM OF THE PICTS L

iving beyond the Roman Empire, the historical Picts emerged as a people in the late 3rd century AD and disappeared in around 900 AD. An enduringly mysterious people, they are best known today for their artistic legacy of carved stone monuments, although the exact meaning of their unique symbols still eludes us. We travel from historic Edinburgh to the shores of Loch Ness on the trail of the northern Picts. En route, we discover national parks, historic castles and the towering Pictish stones of the dramatic Highlands. From eighth century Portmahomack to the massive coastal stronghold at Burghead — expect to change your perceptions but lose none of your wonder!

Mon 19th - Mon 26th Jun 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Kelli Ann Malone 8 days £2,195 (sgl supp £330)

• See the chief Pictish standing stones, some are still located in their original landscape

• Meet ‘Pictoria’, the digital reconstruction of a Pictish woman in the McMannus Galleries, Dundee

• Experience the spectacular landscape of the highlands; and explore the historical city of Edinburgh

ITINER ARY Day One We meet at the National Museum in Edinburgh, where we visit the Pictish gallery collections. This afternoon we continue to St Andrews on the coast, where we visit the beautiful Cathedral Museum. We continue to Perth, stopping at a round fort at Abernethy and Dupplin Cross en route. Day Two This morning we visit the McManus galleries in Dundee, which include a digitally-reconstructed Pictish woman nicknamed Pictoria. After lunch, we continue to Meigle Museum, home to 26 impressive carved stones — the remains of the Pictish power centre that once flourished here. The collection’s oldest stone, an 8th-century crossslab, is carved with Pictish symbols, horsemen and various animals.

A panoramic view of historic Edinburgh. 190

This evening, we have a special after-hours visit to the Howff Cemetery, a peaceful and beautiful graveyard in the heart of Dundee. Day Three We begin our day at the Aberlemno Sculptured Stones in Forfar. One of the stones, is carved with a battle scene including cavalry and infantry. We continue to Angus, where we explore its historic centre and visit Meffan Institute Museum. We continue to St. Vigean’s Stone Museum. We end the day viewing the Pictish Aldbar CrossSlab and Eassie Cross Slab. Day Four We make our way to Perth and visit its excellent museum. We enjoy an informative walking tour of the historic city centre before lunch. We continue on to Inverness, travelling through the beautiful Cairngorm National Park, where we stop at the Highland Folk Museum. Day Five Today we view an array of Pictish stones, including the Eagle Stone

Prehistoric stone alignments in Cairngorm National Park.

at Dingwall. Carved with an eagle and a horseshoe, it was moved up the valley in 1411 to commemorate a battle victory of the Munros over the MacDonalds. This afternoon, we travel to Rosemarkie and visit Groam House Museum, the collections of which include some remarkably unique and finely-carved stones. Day Six We visit Nairn and Sueno’s Stone in the morning. Sueno’s Stone stands at 21 feet high and is one of the largest of its kind. We continue to Burghead Well and Fort and Elgin Museum in the afternoon. Burghead Fort was a particularly significant site during the peak of the Pictish civilisation. Day Seven In the morning we visit Loch Ness, where we visit Urquhart Castle, seated on a headland jutting out into the waters, with the hills of the Great Glen on the horizon. This iconic view is one of the most dramatic in Scotland This afternoon, we visit Whitebridge Cemetery. Day Eight We return home.

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Kingdom of the Picts UK

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

Above: Dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness.

Kelli Malone has a PhD in Anthropology and had been lecturing in archaeology and Irish history for over 25 years. An experienced field archaeologist, Kelli has also written extensively on heritage site management and interpretation, and how tourism impacts cultural heritage. She has worked as a tour manager and guide for many years.

Right: The city of Perth, seated on the River Tay.

“T

he legion which had been left to guard far-distant Britain, which had kept the fierce Scots in check and gazed at the strange shapes tattooed on the faces of the dying Picts.” Claudius Claudianus, 5th century AD

WHAT’S INCLUDED Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Hotels 1 night’s stay in a hotel with extensive grounds, with views overlooking Morecambe Bay 2 nights in a relaxing and centrally located hotel in Dundee 3 nights in Inverness, situated close to the River Ness

Special Access

All Inclusive

Medieval

want to continue your discovery of the human story? Meet them all on... Meet the Romans.................... p.110 The Ice Man and His World.... p.124 The Etruscans......................... p.132 Meet the Vikings.................... p.180

Rock Art

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Tour Code: SKP17A

191

ORKNEY & SHETLAND T

he islands beyond the northernmost tip of Scotland glory in some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the world. For more than five thousand years they have been home to farmers and fishermen, who left monuments so impressive that this has been called an archaeologists’ paradise. During the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age, the people of Orkney and Shetland were among the first in Britain to begin building megalithic chamber tombs and later henge monuments. The islands are also blessed with an extraordinary natural beauty. Wild flowers bloom throughout the summer, covering the green cliffs with colour and the exquisite scent of heather.

Thu 20th - Sun 30th Jul 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Val Turner 11 days £2,695 (sgl supp £370)

• Explore the most northerly and remote outposts of the British Isles with an extraordinarily complex Neolithic culture and outstanding wildlife

• Discover the World Heritage Sites of Skara Brae, Maes Howe and the Ring of Brodgar - uniquely rich and evocative ancient sites

• Visit sites at the cutting edge of archaeological research where new discoveries are shedding light on every aspect of Stone Age life

ITINER ARY Day One We meet in Kirkwall, Orkney. Day Two Today we explore Orkney’s capital, Kirkwall – the highlights include the Bishop’s Palace and St Magnus Cathedral. In the afternoon we visit Earl’s Palace. Day Three We drive to Maes Howe: a chambered tomb that has been a distinctive presence in the landscape for millennia. The rays of the midwinter sun shine down the passage to illuminate the central chamber. We continue to the Stones of Stenness and then the Ring of Brodgar. We have special access to excavations at the Ness of Brodgar - where archaeologists are uncovering a Neolithic settlement in extraordinary detail.

Shetland ponies. 192

Day Four We travel to the Island of Rousay to explore Midhowe chambered tomb, sealed 4,500 years ago containing the remains of 25 people. On to the much later Iron Age defensive structure of Midhowe Broch which stands on the rocky foreshore of Rousay between two inlets. We end the day at the double chambered tomb of Taversoe Tuick. Day Five Our day begins at the Neolithic village at Skara Brae, amazingly well preserved beneath the sand, occupied for over 600 years. After lunch, we visit Gurness Broch, an Iron Age drystone tower with an extensive surrounding settlement.

Old Scatness is an archaeological site in the parish of Dunrossness, Shetland.

and the Scord of Brouster with its chambered cairn and houses. We spend some time at the amazing site of Jarlshof: originally constructed by Neolithic farmers around 2,400BC. We view the oval Bronze Age houses, Iron Age fortifications, and the remains of a Viking long house. We continue to Scatness, an extensive settlement site.

Day Six We visit the Tomb of the Eagles at Isbister, built before 3,000BC. We continue to the Burnt Mound at Liddle, once a communal cooking place. We end the day on a very different note at the Italian Chapel, built by prisoners of war in the 1940s.

Day Nine We take a ferry ride to Mousa Broch, the tallest of this unique Iron Age tower structure surviving in Scotland. We continue to South Voe Croft Museum, an engaging evocation of rural life in Shetland. We then explore St Ninian’s Isle where we see the Church. Excavation revealed a fabulous hoard of Pictish silver here.

Day Seven We arrive in Lerwick this morning. Our first stop is Clickhimin Broch, a stone wall fort dating to the Iron Age. This once occupied an island set in the Loch. We continue to Shetland Museum and then to Scalloway Castle.

Day Ten During our final full day, we explore Unst. We view Viking houses at Underhoull, and the replica Viking house and ship at Brookpoint. We also visit the Gannet Colony at Hermaness and the Castle at Muness.

Day Eight We visit Stanydale Temple, surrounded by prehistoric landscapes,

Day Eleven Enjoy some time for further exploring before we end our tour in Lerwick.

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Orkney & Shetland UK

GUIDE LECTURER

The last few remaining stones at the Ring of Brodgar, estimated to have been originally built between 2000 and 2500 BC.

Shetland

Clickhimin Broch

“O

n the far side of the curving shore of the bay lies Skara Brae, hazy through the sea-haar.” George Mackay Brown Rockpools and Daffodils

Scatness

Lerwick Mousa Jarlshof

Orkney Skara Brae Maes Howe

Isle of Rousay Gurness Broch Kirkwall Italian Chapel Tomb of the Eagles

WHAT’S INCLUDED Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 5 nights in a 3 * family-run hotel based in Kirkwall, overlooking the harbour 4 nights nestled on the shore of Busta Voe, in a lovely old building with a large garden

Prehistory

Vikings

Dr Val Turner has been Shetland’s Regional Archaeologist since 1986. An expert in Prehistoric and Viking Field Systems Val has project-managed two major excavation projects: ‘Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village’ and ‘Viking Unst’. She has been guiding walks and tours in both Orkney and Shetland for over 20 years.

curious about island archaeology? You may also be interested in: Chile & Easter Island..............p.30 Cyprus: The South..................p.38 Crete and Santorini................ p.74 Classical Sicily........................ p.106 Malta & Gozo......................... p.156

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: OAS17A

193

OVER THE SEA TO SKYE E

xplore the Isle of Skye, a patchwork land of velvet moors, jagged mountains, sparkling lochs, and towering sea cliffs. The isle takes its name from the old Norse word sky-a, meaning ‘cloud island’— an apt name for the often-mistcovered Cuillin Hills. Discover majestic stone carvings and crosses, and castles built by various clan chiefs studded across the island. Beyond Skye, we also visit Islay — home of some of the world’s greatest and peatiest whiskies; Mull, with the wonderfully rugged ridges of Ben More and the black basalt crags of Burg; and the peaceful waterfront town of Oban, set on a beautiful bay.

Mon 28th Aug - Tue 5th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Mary MacLeod Rivett 9 days £2,375 (sgl supp £290)

• Explore Duarte Castle, the historic seat of the chiefs of the Maclean Clan • Tour the Kilmartin museum, located within the prehistoric site, with its well preserved cairns

• Experience the spectacular landscape - wild coastlines, and medieval castles • Observe puffins in their natural habitat ITINER ARY Day One We meet in Glasgow today and catch the train to Fort William, where we visit Old Inverlochy Castle. We stop to visit the thirteenth-century Eilean Donan Castle — one of the most iconic and picturesque castles in Scotland, seated on an island at the meeting point of three sea lochs and once a stronghold of Clan Mackenzie and their allies. From here, we travel by coach to Skye. Day Two Today we visit sites to the north around Loch Eyre including Carn Liath and Sornaichean Coir’ Fhinn (standing stones). Local legend has it that these stones once supported the cookingpot of King Fingal. We continue to Kilvaxter Souterrain, an underground storage tunnel only recently excavated, followed by the Skye Museum of Island Life and the coastal ruins of Duntlum Castle.

Day Three Today we explore further to the northwest, visiting two Iron Age brochs, Dun Borrafiach and Dun Fiadhairt. Dun Borrafiach is one of the best-preserved brochs in Skye, its high wall standing above the heathered slopes. After lunch we visit the lochside Dunvegan Castle, Scotland’s oldest continuously-inhabited castle, with acres of beautiful formal gardens.

Ruins of Aros Castle on the Isle of Mull.

Day Four We leave Skye today and head to Oban, visiting Clan Donald Skye Visitor Centre and the remains of Dunscaith Castle en route. The castle is dramatically seated on an offshore rock, rising some 40 feet above sea level. The drive to Oban is a beautiful one, taking us along a road lying between Ben Nevis and Loch Linnhe.

Day Seven We drive over to Oban to visit the many monuments of Kilmartin Glen, home to one of the largest collections of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland. Lines of cairns stretch for miles along the landscape here. Afterwards we continue to Tarbert.

Day Five Today we catch the ferry from Oban to the Isle of Mull, where we visit the the 13th century Pennygown Chapel, the ruins of Aros Castle, and Baliscate Chapel. This afternoon, we visit the Museum of Mull and Dun Ara and Glengorm castles. We also receive special access to the excavations at the abandoned settlement at Kildavie.

Dun Beag Broch on Skye. 194

Day Six A morning of castles today, visiting Torosay Castle, Duarte Castle and

Moy Castle. We then sail to the holy island of Iona to visit the famous Abbey, with atmospheric cloisters and a beautiful nave. We also visit the Medieval St Oran’s Chapel.

Day Eight We catch a morning ferry to the Isle of Islay, where we visit Kildalton Cross, Dunyvaig Castle, and Cultoon Stone Circle. In the afternoon we visit the Museum of Islay Life, also taking in Dun Guaidhre and Kilnave Chapel, the site of the bloody 1598 battle of Traigh Ghruineard, fought between Clan Maclean and Clan MacDonald. Day Nine We travel to the beautiful Isle of Jura, meaning Deer Island, where we see several standing-stones scattered along the east coast of this peaceful island. We return home this afternoon.

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Over the Sea to Skye UK

NEW

The austere keep of Eilean Donan Castle, from whence we head over the sea to Skye.

Eilean Donan Castle

Old Inverlochy Castle

Fort William

“S

kye lies open on the west and north to a vast extent of ocean, and is cooled in the summer by perpetual ventilation, but by the same blasts is kept warm in winter.” Samuel Johnson, A Journey to the Western Isles of Scotland

Mull

Oban

Islay

WHAT’S INCLUDED Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Medieval

GUIDE LECTURER

Duntulum Castle Dunvegan Castle Portree

Hotels 3 nights in Skye 1 night in Oban 2 nights in Mull 1 night in Tarbert 1 night in Islay

Historic Churches

Scotland

Glasgow

Dr Mary MacLeod Rivett is a lecturer in archaeology at the University of the Highlands and Islands. She is a specialist in the Viking, Norse and Medieval archaeology of the North Atlantic, particularly the north of Scotland. Mary studied at Cambridge, York and Glasgow Universities, working on projects in Kenya, Sweden and Malta, as well as in the UK.

interested in our new tours for 2017? You may also wish to view The Cyclades by Gulet............ p.80 Athens to Istanbul.................. p.82 Kazakhstan.............................. p.154 The Phoenicians in Spain....... p.174

Conflict

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Tour Code: IHE17A

195

THE STORY OF WESSEX T

he chalk downs of the ancient kingdom of Wessex have been a focus for monumental building and funerary ritual over more than five millennia. Henges, burial mounds of all shapes and sizes, causewayed camps, early field systems and ‘cursus’ monuments are scattered everywhere, forming a landscape full of clues and interest. This was the very first Andante Tour, and our experts have been introducing people to these monuments for several decades now. This very privileged tour includes private access inside the stones at Stonehenge in the early morning. Extraordinary access to Britain’s best-known archaeological site, whose monumental bluestones have graced the landscape for thousands of years.

Fri 15th - Sun 17th Sep 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Julian Richards 3 days £595 (sgl supp £0)

• Enjoy a private visit inside the stones at Stonehenge in the early morning • Explore a landscape of rites and ritual • Receive special access to Devizes Museum, with a guided tour by the Museum Director, followed by dinner at the museum

ITINER ARY Day One We meet in Devizes for an introductory lecture at our hotel before dinner. Day Two We begin at the great henge of Avebury, so huge that part of the modern village still lies within it. With intact ditch and bank fortifications, it is one of the best-preserved and largest henges in Europe. We walk to West Kennet long barrow, a Neolithic chambered tomb. We also pass by the still-mysterious Silbury Hill. The largest man-made mound in Europe. This evening we have special access to Wiltshire Heritage Museum, Devizes, which houses collections including gold work from around Stonehenge.

After a a guided tour of the museum from Director David Dawson, we enjoy a special dinner at the Museum. Day Three We have an early start this morning to take advantage of our special access to Stonehenge - an unforgettable experience amongst the huge stones. The new visitor centre has transformed the setting of the monument. We walk through the wider prehistoric landscape – the cursus, King Barrow and the avenue. After lunch at a local restaurant we visit Salisbury Museum to see the excellent new Wessex Gallery.

“It does as much exceed in greatness the so renowned Stonehenge as a Cathedral doeth a parish church” 18th century antiquarian John Aubrey describing the stones at Avebury.

196

The stones at Avebury, Europe’s largest stone circle.

We have also arranged a private demonstration of flint-knapping. Much enjoyed by previous guests, this gives a real sense of the skill and craftsmanship of our prehistoric forebears. You cannot help but admire their ability to fashion not only functional (and sharp!) but also very beautiful tools out of such unyielding raw material. We return to Devizes, where we disperse. Our tour ends here.

Surviving the Neolithic! Flint- knapping demonstration.

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The Story of Wessex UK

GUIDE LECTURER

The great stones of Stonehenge; we have special access inside the stones in the early morning.

Avebury Devizes

“I

t is Stonehenge! said Clare. “The heathen temple you mean?” “Yes, older than the centuries; older than the d’Urbervilles!” Thomas Hardy, Tess of the d’Urbervilles

England Stonehenge Salisbury

WHAT’S INCLUDED Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 2 nights in a former coaching in situated in the heart of historic Devizes. The site has been a meeting place for travellers since 1432, and the luxurious rooms benefit from attractive period features.

Just One Hotel

Cultural

Julian Richards is a Wessex based archaeologist and broadcaster with a particular passion for Stonehenge. The presenter of BBC2’s longrunning ‘Meet the Ancestors’ series, his ‘Stonehenge - the story so far’ has recently been published by English Heritage.

looking for iconic archaeology? You may also wish to visit Crete & Santorini....................p.74 Pompeii & Herculaneum.........p.96 Classical Sicily..........................p.106 Jordan; Petra............................p.152

Prehistory

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Tour Code: WES17B

197

THE ROMANS in London & Paris A

lmost two millennia after the dissolution of the Western Roman Empire, the remnants of extravagant villas, cemeteries, and theatres leave clues to its influence in two of its greatest strongholds: present-day Britain and France. Our journey takes us to the vital centres of London and Paris, taking in Roman ruins and, in passing, spectacular cathedrals in Canterbury, St Albans and Paris along the way. This is truly a tour for the curious, spanning two countries, world class museums, and the breadth of wisdom from one of our expert Guide Lecturers. And, with a wealth of special access visits — behind closed doors at the Musée de Cluny and Mortimer Wheeler House, and in the heart of the ruins at Cripplegate’s west gate — prepare to get to know the inhabitants of Roman Britain and France better than you ever thought possible.

Wed 20th Sep - Sun 1st Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 12 days £3,995 (sgl supp £995; without flights £3,915)

• Explore the visible Roman remains in London and Paris • Immerse yourself in the Roman exhibits of three major museums, The Louvre, the British Museum and the Museum of London

• Experience the best of both worlds — town and countryside — as you explore villas and towns outside the Roman cities

ITINER ARY Day One We meet in London and visit the Sir John Soanes Museum, an 18th century house containing a diverse collection of antiquities and art from the Classical and Egyptian worlds. Day Two We have a special visit behind the scenes at Mortimer Wheeler House, part of the Museum of London, which houses the London Archaeological Archive and Research Centre. Enjoy the chance to handle some specially selected artefacts. We also visit the British Museum to see some of the most important discoveries from the United Kingdom in the Roman Britain gallery. Day Three We discover the best of Roman London

on foot, heading underground to discover the hidden city beneath. We start at the Museum of London. Day Four We continue to the remains of the Roman fort at Cripplegate, including the west gate that is closed to the general public. We also see the Roman baths at Billingsgate, again rarely opened to the public. Today we leave the centre of London and venture out to the south-east region of Roman London’s territory. We visit the famous Lullingstone Villa, the mausolea at Keston, near Orpington, and its recently displayed villa. Day Five We travel to St Albans today, where it is possible to walk around the park that now covers Verulamium. We are also able to view the Roman town walls and theatre, and the remarkable mosaic floor of one of its large townhouses. Day Six We visit Canterbury Cathedral, and take a look at Roman remains scattered throughout the city. Later we travel to the well-preserved Roman Saxon Shore Fort at Richborough. We continue to nearby Ashford to catch the Eurostar, continuing our journey to Paris.

Richborough Castle. 198

Day Seven We enjoy a Roman Gaul Orientation Day, taking time out from the centre

Cathedral of Notre Dame.

of the city and travelling to visit the St Germain en Laye Archaeological Museum. Day Eight Today we explore the Île de la Cité and the remains of Lutetia — the Roman predecessor to Paris — beneath the forecourt of Notre Dame Cathedral. Day Nine We visit the Musée de Cluny, with a visit behind closed doors to view the substructure of the massive Roman bath house the museum is located in. We also see the remains of Lutetia’s amphitheatre. Day Ten We travel to the nearby commune of Évreux today, and visit the Roman religious sanctuary of Gisacum. Day Eleven No visit to Paris is complete without a trip to The Louvre, where we explore the expansive collection. Day Twelve We return home today.

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The Romans in London & Paris UK AND FRANCE

NEW

GUIDE LECTURER

England

Christ in supplication at Cantebury Cathedral. St Albans

“

Labienus...marches with four legions to Lutetia (which is a town of the Parisii, situated on an island on the river Seine), whose arrival being discovered by the enemy, numerous forces arrived from the neighboring states.” Ceasar, The Gallic Wars.

London Keston

Lullingstone Crofton

Richborough Canterbury

Ashford International

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Paris Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 4 nights in a fine 4* hotel at the very heart of bustling London, in the chic area of Marylebone 7 nights in a to-be-confirmed hotel in the romantic capital city of Paris, known as the ‘City of Lights’

Romans

Great Cities

France

Le Vieil-Évreux Saint-Germain-en-Laye Île de la Cité Paris

Historic Churches

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Tour Code: BAF17A

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NATIVE AMERICAN PUEBLOS T

he ancestral Pueblos of the American Southwest left us an extraordinary archaeological legacy in their magnificent dwellings, cliff palaces, towers, shrines and petroglyph panels. Once the hubs of an expansive civilisation, these sites were already abandoned when the Navajo peoples moved in after 1300, and so they simply described them as the ‘ancient ones’ or Anasazi, and left the deserted ruins well alone. Their civilisation continues today in the Native American Pueblos of New Mexico and Arizona, stretching across the so-called ‘corner states’. Our tour of these pueblos includes exclusive special access affording us real insight, whether it’s behind the scenes at Albuquerque’s Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, or exploring the untouched settlements of the Gallisteo Basin.

Mon 16th - Sat 28th Oct 2017 Guide Lecturer: Dr Stephen Lekson 13 days £4,495 (sgl supp £580; without flights £3,645)

• Discover extraordinary rock art and architecture of the Anasazi • Travel with Dr Steve Lekson — director of over 20 archaeological projects across the Southwest — and enjoy special access to sites and excavations

• Immerse yourself in magnificent, sweeping landscapes of Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona

ITINER ARY Day One We fly to Albuquerque, New Mexico, and transfer to our hotel. Day Two We begin our tour with a special access visit to the fine Maxwell Museum of Anthropology in Albuquerque, where we enjoy an introductory talk and exclusive access to the museum’s reserve collections. We continue to Acoma Pueblo, perhaps the oldest township in North America, occupied by the Acoma Pueblo tribe for more than 800 years. Day Three We go cross country to Chaco Canyon, home to one of the largest concentrations of Anasazi ruins - ‘Great Houses’, Kiva shrines, rock art and

more. This afternoon, we drive on to Durango, Colorado. Day Four We spend the morning at Chimney Rock, an extraordinary outcrop rising like a lighthouse over the Piedra River plain. We move on to the Southern Ute Museum at Ignacio to explore the culture of the Ute indigenous peoples, and then to the ‘Aztec Ruins’. Day Five We spend a full day at Mesa Verde, the largest archaeological preserve in the United States. There are over 600 Anasazi cliff dwellings here dating from the 7th century AD, including the marvelous Cliff Palace. Day Six We move on to Crow Canyon Archaeological Centre to visit its laboratories, experimental archaeology and excavation. We also visit Bluff via the lonely towers of Hovenweep National Monument. Day Seven We take to the water for a trip on the San Juan River to see the Sand Island and impressive Butler Wash rock art panels. We move on to the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley.

Look-out point, Mesa Verda National Park. 200

Day Eight We make our way to Canyon de Chelly where we transfer into smaller vehicles for a visit to the winding canyons of this redstone fastness. This may be a

Rock art hunting scene from Chaco Canyon.

National Monument, but it is also the heartland of the Navajo Nation. The extensive canyon floor contains many monuments including great houses and the rock art of the Anasazi and Navajo peoples. Day Nine We travel from Chinle to Santa Fe, stopping en route at the historic Hubbell Trading Post. Traders like Hubbell could be a vital help for the Native Americans in marketing their goods, textiles and basket-ware. Day Ten We enjoy a privileged full day of special access to the untouched settlements and rock art sites of the Gallisteo Basin to view further examples of Anasazi rock art. Day Eleven Our final visit is to the 1000 year old Taos Pueblo, considered the oldest inhabited community in the USA. Day Twelve & Thirteen We travel to Albuquerque before our flight back to the UK. We arrive in London on the morning of Day 13.

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Native American Pueblos USA Ruins of Chaco Canyon.

Colorado

Utah Hovenweep Bluff

Durango

Mesa Verde Monument Valley

“M

en in search of a myth will usually find one.” Pueblo Native American Proverb

Taos Pueblo Chaco Canyon Santa Fe

Canyon de Chelly Acoma Pueblo

Albuquerque

Arizona New Mexico

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Albuquerque Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Small Group

All Inclusive

Cultural

Hotels 3 nights in an upscale boutique hotel in Albuquerque 2 nights in a modern hotel in Durango 1 night in a comfortable Cortez hotel 1 night in a rustic hotel in Bluff 1 night in a lodge in Mon. Valley 3 nights in 4* Southwestern-style lodgings in Santa Fe

Rock Art

Prehistory

GUIDE LECTURER Dr Stephen H. Lekson is Curator of Archaeology and Professor of Anthropology at the Museum of Natural History, University of Colorado, Boulder. He has directed numerous projects in the Southwestern USA, working on a wide range of sites across the region. Steve is particularly interested in the domestic and household archaeology of this region.

looking for tours in october 2017? You may also be interested in Jordan; Petra............................ p.152 Mexico Revisited..................... p.158 Rock Art in Namibia............... p.160 Phoenicians in Spain.............. p.174

New World

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Tour Code: NAA17A

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UZBEKISTAN The Silk Road W

e explore the sites and cities of the Silk Road, which once ran all the way from China to Europe, with Uzbekistan right at its heart. The stepped deserts, mountains and gleaming blue-tiled cities tell a story of trade and conquest. Join us in 2017 on the road to Samarkand and Bukhara; cities built to dazzle the travellers who have passed by for thousands of years. For centuries — if not millennia — this is where not only goods, but knowledge, ideas, and cultures crossed from East to West. We journey in the footsteps of those ancient caravans, from grassy plain to desert. Crossing Uzbekistan, we pass ornate architectural beauty and dusty, forgotten citadels, making for an unforgettable journey.

Fri 7th - Fri 21st Apr 2017 Guide Lecturer: Paul Wordsworth 15 days £3,395 (sgl supp £335; without flights £2,845)

• We visit no fewer than three World Heritage Sites: Samarkand, Shahrisabz, and Bukhara

• Explore the winding streets of the great Silk Road cities, dazzling blue-tiled domes, mosques, and centres of learning

• Travel the ancient trade routes, where caravans of silk, spice, and textiles once crossed the landscape

ITINER ARY Day One & Two Fly overnight to Tashkent, arriving on Day Two. Tashkent is a great trading city, destroyed by the Mongols and restored by Tamerlane. Enjoy some time to rest before an afternoon visit to the History Museum. Day Three We drive to Shahrukhiyah, an important Silk Road city, now hidden beneath a green and verdant mound. We return to Taskhent for a walking tour this afternoon. Day Four We fly to Nukus to visit Gyaur Kala, a fortress of the First Persian Empire with mud brick walls and towers still visible. We continue to the necropolis which covers the medieval city of Mizdakhkan this afternoon. Day Five We visit the Savitsky Museum, home to an extensive collection of Central Asian art — folk, applied, and contemporary — and archaeological

objects, as well as Russian avant garde art. We travel on to Khiva and, on the way, visit the imposing tepe of Chilpik Dakhma where there is a Zoroastrian tower of silence used in funerary ‘sky burial’ rituals. Day Six We visit the mighty fortresses at Ayaz Kala lying on the edge of the known world, built between the 4th century BC and the 7th century AD, destroyed in the Arab invasions. We continue to the abandoned city of Toprak Kala. Day Seven We spend a day in the Arabian Nights city of Khiva, full of narrow alleys, graceful minarets and markets. Day Eight We traverse the Karakum desert with its shifting dunes and modern caravanserai, and Tea Houses. We enjoy fine views of the Ama Daryu River and Turkmenistan beyond.

The Arabian nights city of Khiva.

Day Eleven We are on the road to Samarkand, a long but very scenic drive. On the way we stop at Ribat-i Malik, an 11th century caravanserai. Day Twelve We enjoy a full day in Samarkand, the focal point of the Silk Road. The original core of the city — including an ancient citadel and fortifications — survives, along with later monuments. Day Thirteen We transfer to smaller vehicles for the drive to Shahrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane with his stupendous White Palace.

Day Nine We spend a whole day in the evocative World Heritage Site city of Bukhara, one of the great centres of the Silk Road. We also visit the Ismail Samani mausoleum.

Day Fourteen We spend our final full day exploring central Samarkand. Visit the Gur i Emir mausoleum complex where Tamerlane was buried, and the imperial necropolis at Shah i Zinda.

Day Ten

Day Fifeen Our final visit in Tashkent is to the modern Timur museum. We return home this afternoon.

Receive special access to excavations at the ruined city of Paykent. The three fortresses at Ayaz Kala. 202

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Uzbekistan: The Silk Road UZBEKISTAN Western gate (Ata Darvoza) to the ancient town of Itchan Kala, Khiva.

GUIDE LECTURER Ayaz-Kala Fortress Nukus Kavat Kala Chilpik Dakma Khiva

“L

ook ‘round there now on Samarkand, Is she not queen of the earth? Her pride above all cities? In her hand, their destinies? With all beside of glory, which the world hath known? Stand she not proudly and alone? Edgar Allen Poe, Tamerlane.

Tashkent Shahuriyah Bukhara

Samarkand Shahrisabz

WHAT’S INCLUDED Flights - Scheduled return flights from London to Tashkent Tour Manager Local Travel - Private a/c coach Meals - All meals included - dinners with wine Entries & Tips - Entry to all sites in programme; tips included

Special Access

Low Single Supplement

All Inclusive

Hotels 3 nights in a palatial hotel in Tashkent 1 night in a spacious hotel in Nukus 3 nights in an elegant hotel in Khiva 3 nights in a 4* hotel in Bukhara 3 nights across two hand-picked hotels in Samarkand

Cultural

Prehistory

Paul Wordsworth is a Research Fellow at the University of Oxford focusing on the archaeology of the medieval Caucasus and Central Asia. He is currently directing a new archaeological project exploring the remains of a frontier city of the early Islamic Caliphate in Azerbaijan. He has carried out extensive archaeological fieldwork in Uzbekistan.

yearning to travel the silk road? You may also wish to view China: Beyond the Great Wall..p.32 Iran...........................................p.90 Kazakhstan.............................. .p.154

Medieval

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Tour Code: UZB17A

203

2017 Calendar february Hidden Rome Mon 6 - Sat 11 with Dr Gillian Shepherd

Italy

100

Guatemala, Belize & Honduras Tue 14 - Tue 28 with David Drew

Guatemala, 86 Belize & Honduras

march Nicaragua & Costa Rica | Grand Tour | NEW Mon 13 - Wed 29 with Dr Nicholas James

Nicaragua & Costa Rica

Ancient Wonders of Sicily | NEW Tue 14 - Tue 21 with Dr Denise Allen

Italy

102

Hidden Venice Mon 20 - Sat 25 with Dr Eireann Marshall

Italy

104

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 27 - Mon 3 April with Diana Blumberg

Italy

Chile & Easter Island Mon 27th - Thu 13th April with Dr Paul Bahn

Chile

Jordan | Petra & the Desert Fortresses Tue 28 - Thu 6 April with Nick Jackson

Jordan

152

Classical Sicily Thu 30 - Sun 9 Apr with Oliver Gilkes

Italy

106

april

Hidden Florence & Siena | NEW Mon 3 - Sat 8 with Dr Oren Margolis

Italy

108

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 3 - Mon 10 with Prof Tony King

Italy

The Peloponnese Mon 3 - Fri 14 with Dr Rita Roussos

Greece

Meet the Romans Mon 3 - Fri 14 with Dr Neil Faulkner

Italy

110

Thessaloniki Tue 4 - Mon 10 with Dr Christina Hatzimichael Whitley

Greece

Iran | Kings, Shahs & Gardens Thu 6 - Sat 22 with Prof Michael Roaf

Iran

Uzbekistan Fri 7 - Fri 21 with Paul Wordsworth

Uzbekistan 202

Spain & Portugal | Roman Lusitania Sun 16 - Sun 23 with Dr Andy Fear

Spain & Portugal

170

Malta & Gozo Mon 17 - Sun 23 with Prof Nicholas Vella

Malta

156

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 17 - Mon 24 with John Shepherd

Italy

Crete and Santorini Tue 18 - Tue 25 with Dr Sandy MacGillivray

Greece

Cyprus - The South Thu 20 - Thu 27 with Dr Paul Croft

Cyprus

Classical Sicily Thu 20 - Sun 30 Guide Lecturer TBC

Italy

106

Albania | Land of the Eagles Fri 21 - Sat 29 with Oliver Gilkes

Albania

The Via Julia | Côte d’Azur Sat 1 - Sat 8 with John Shepherd

France

Hidden Rome Mon 24 - Sat 29 with Dr Jonathan Coulston

Italy

100

Romans, Visigoths and Viziers Sun 2 - Sun 9 with Dr Andy Fear

Spain

168

Relaxed Capri | NEW Mon 24 - Sun 30 with Tony O’Connor

Italy

112

North Cyprus: Road to Salamis | NEW Thu 27 - Fri 5 May with Terry Richardson

Cyprus

hidden cities 204

relaxed breaks

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may Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 1 - Mon 8 with Dr Neil Faulkner

Italy

Italy | Rome Mon 8 - Sat 13 with Claudia Pinci

Italy

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 8 - Mon 15 with Dr Eireann Marshall

Roman Germany Sun 28 - Tue 6 June with Tony Wilmott

Germany

114

Pyrenees Rock Art Mon 29 - Sun 4 June with Dr Paul Bahn

France

Italy

Apulia | Food & Archaeology | NEW Mon 29 - Sun 5 June with Deborah Hodson

Italy

122

Northern Peru Mon 8 - Thu 25 with David Drew

Peru

162

june

Crete & Santorini Tue 9 - Tue 16 with Dr Sandy MacGillivray

Greece

The Ice Man and his World Sat 3 - Thu 8 with Dr Tertia Barnett

Italy

124

Hidden Amsterdam | NEW Thu 11 - Tue 16 with Dr Mark Driessen

Netherlands

Hidden Berlin Mon 5 - Sat 10 with Nick Jackson

Germany

Classical Sicily Thu 11 - Sun 21 with John Shepherd

Italy

106

Dordogne | Cave Art Mon 5 - Mon 12 with Dr Paul Bahn

France

Kazakhstan | NEW Thu 11 - Fri 26 with Dr Gai Jorayev

Kazakhstan

154

France | Romans on the Rhône | NEW Tue 13 - Tue 20 with Prof Tony King

France

Renaissance Villas Mon 15 - Sun 21 with Oliver Gilkes

Italy

116

Kingdom of the Picts | NEW Mon 19 - Mon 26 with Dr Kelli Ann Malone

190

Relaxed Provence | NEW Mon 15 - Sun 21 with Dr Denise Allen

France

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 15 - Mon 22 with Tony Wilmott

Italy

Rock Art of Altamira Mon 15 - Mon 22 with Dr Paul Bahn

Spain

Classical Sicily Thu 18 - Sun 28 Guide Lecturer TBC

Italy

Latium | The Roman Rich Sun 21 - Sun 28 with Prof Tony King

july UK, Denmark & Sweden

180

172

Meet the Vikings Sat 8 - Thu 20 with Brian Ayers

Sweden & Norway

182

106

Sweden & Norway Rock Art Sat 15 - Sat 22 with Dr Tertia Barnett

192

Italy

118

Orkney & Shetland Thu 20 - Sun 30 with Dr Val Turner

Samnites | Enemies of Rome Mon 22 - Sun 28 with Oliver Gilkes

Italy

120

august

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 22 - Mon 29 with Oliver Gilkes

Italy

Hidden Berlin Mon 21 - Sat 26 with Nick Jackson

Germany

Phoenicians in Spain | NEW Mon 22 - Thu 1 June with Dr Fernando Lopez Sanchez

Spain

174

Brittany | Carnac & Beyond Mon 28 - Sun 3 September with Dr Nick Thorpe

France

Dalmatia & Dubrovnik Wed 24 - Fri 2nd June with John Shepherd

Croatia

Over the Sea to Skye | NEW Mon 28 - Tue 5 September with Dr Mary MacLeod Rivett

194

Vintage Provence Sun 28 - Sat 3 June with Tony O’Connor

France

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205

september

september continued

Spain & Portugal | Roman Lusitania Sun 3 - Sun 10 with Dr Andy Fear

Spain & Portugal

170

Dordogne | Cave Art Mon 18 - Mon 25 with Dr Iain Morley

France

Roman Germany Sun 3 - Tue 12 with Tony Wilmott

Germany

Greece

Languedoc | Cathars & Crusaders Mon 4 - Mon 11 with Dr Nick Slope

France

Athens & the Glories of Pericles | NEW Mon 18 - Sat 23 with Dr Christina Hatzimichael Whitley

Greece

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 18 - Mon 25 with Dr Sophy Downes

Italy

Greece | The Peloponnese Mon 4 - Fri 15 with Dr Rita Roussos

Greece

Austria & Hungary | The Danube | NEW Fri 19 - Sat 26 with Dr Kelli Ann Malone

Austria & Hungary

Wild Thrace Tue 5 - Wed 13 with Dr Christina Hatzmichael Whitley

Peru

164

Romans in London & Paris | NEW Wed 20 - Sun 1 October with John Shepherd

UK & France

198

Peru & the Nazca Lines Wed 6 - Tue 26 with David Drew

128

Tanzania

184

Pompeii & Amalfi | Wine & Archaeology Sat 23 - Sat 30 with Diana Blumberg

Italy

Tanzania & Zanzibar | NEW Fri 8 - Fri 22 with Dr John Mcnabb

Basilicata & Calabria Sat 23 - Sun 1 October with Ed Bispham

Italy

130

Relaxed Tuscany | NEW Mon 11 - Sat 16 with Dr Oren Margolis

Italy

126

Kazakhstan | NEW Sat 23 - Sun 8 October with Dr Gai Jorayev

Kazakhstan

154

Foz Côa | Rock Art of Portugal Mon 11 - Sun 17 with Dr Paul Bahn

Portugal

176

The Etruscans Sun 24 - Sun 1 October with Letizia Ceccarelli

Italy

132

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 11 - Mon 18 with John Shepherd

Italy

Italy | Rome with Sistine Chapel Mon 25 - Sat 30 with Diana Blumberg

Italy

114

France

France | Romans on the Rhône | NEW Tue 12 - Tue 19th with Professor Tony King

France

Relaxed Provence Mon 25 - Sun 1 October Guide Lecturer TBC

Italy

Crete & Santorini Tue 12 - Tue 19 with Dr Sandy MacGillivray

Greece

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 25 - Mon 2 October with Tony Wilmott

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Tue 12 - Tue 19 Guide Lecturer TBC

Italy

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Tue 26 - Tue 3 October Guide Lecturer TBC

Italy

Ancient Wonders of Sicily | NEW Tue 12 - Tue 19 with Oliver Gilkes

Italy

102

Crete & Santorini Tue 26 - Tue 3 October with Dr Christina Hatzimichael Whitley

Greece

Classical Sicily Thu 14 - Sun 24 with Dr Denise Allen

Italy

106

Albania, Montenegro & Kosovo | NEW Thu 28 - Fri 6 October with Oliver Gilkes

Albania, 18 Montenegro & Kosovo

China | Beyond the Great Wall Thu 14 - Sat 30 with Malcolm McNeil

China

North Cyprus: Road to Salamis | NEW Thu 28th - Fri 6th October with Terry Richardson

Cyprus

Iran | Kings, Shahs & Gardens Thu 14 - Sat 30 with Francois Desset

Iran

Classical Sicily Thu 28 - Sun 8 Oct with Tony O’Connor

Italy

106

Greece

Wessex Weekend Fri 15 - Sun 17 with Julian Richards

196

Greece | The Cyclades by Gulet| NEW Sat 30 - Tue 10 Oct with Dr Sandy MacGillivray

The Aegean Coast of Turkey Sat 16 - Tue 26 with Mr Terry Richardson

Turkey

186

Hidden Rome Mon 18 - Sat 23 with Dr Eireann Marshall

Italy

100

Relaxed Provence Mon 18 - Sun 24 with Tony O’Connor

France

206

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october Crete Revisited | NEW Mon 16 - Mon 23 with Dr Sandy MacGillivray

Greece

Ravenna & Aquileia | Rome & her Heirs Mon 23 - Mon 30 with Prof Tony King

Italy

142

Relaxed Capri | NEW Mon 23 - Sun 29 Guide Lecturer TBC

Italy

112

Hidden Venice Mon 30 - Sat 4 Nov with Prof John Mitchell

Italy

104

134 174

Israel & Palestine Tue 31 - Fri 10 Nov with Dr Nick Slope

Israel & Palestine

Spain

Classical Sicily Thu 5 - Sun 15 with Dr Eireann Marshall

Italy

106

Turkey | Anatolia & Cappadocia Fri 6 - Mon 16 with Dr Michael Brown

Turkey

188

Bulgaria | Thracian Treasures Sat 7 - Wed 18 with Dr Katya Melamed

Bulgaria

Via Egnatia | Across the Balkans Sun 8 - Mon 16 with Oliver Gilkes

Albania & Macedonia

Rock Art in the Namibian Wild Sun 8 - Mon 23 with Dr Paul Bahn

Namibia

160

Relaxed Siracusa Mon 9 - Sun 15 with John Shepherd

Italy

136

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 9 - Mon 16 with Diana Blumberg

Italy

Athens to Istanbul | NEW Mon 9 - Sun 22 with Dr Christina Hatzmichael Whitley

Hidden Paris Mon 2 - Sun 8 with John Shepherd

France

Malta & Gozo Mon 2nd - Sun 8th with Jeremy Bennett

Malta

156

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 2 - Mon 9 with Dr Denise Allen

Italy

Italy | Apulia Mon 2 - Mon 9 with Claudia Pinci

Italy

Phoenicians in Spain | NEW Mon 2 - Thu 12 with Dr Fernando López Sánchez

november Hidden Venice Mon 6 - Sat 11 with Dr Eireann Marshall

Italy

104

Cambodia & Laos | NEW Tue 7 - Sun 19 with David Brotherson

Cambodia & Laos

Egypt

Egypt | Land of the Pharaohs Fri 10 - Mon 20 with Lucia Gahlin

Chile

Greece & Turkey

Chile & Easter Island Mon 13 - Thu 30 with Dr Paul Bahn

South Africa 166

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Tue 10 - Tue 17 with Mr Christian Biggi

Italy

South Africa | The Western Cape | NEW Tue 28 - Thu 7 Dec with Jayson Orton

Crete & Santorini Tue 10 - Tue 17 with Dr Christina Hatzmichael Whitley

Greece

Jordan | Petra & the Desert Fortresses Tue 10 - Thu 19 with Nick Jackson

Jordan

152

The Cyclades | NEW Wed 11 - Sat 21 with Dr Rita Roussos

Greece

Iran | Kings, Shahs & Gardens Thu 12 - Sat 28 with Carolyn Perry

Iran

Croatia | Relaxed Split Sat 14 - Sat 21with John Shepherd

Croatia

Sicily | Wine of the Gods Sat 14 - Sat 21 Guide Lecturer TBC

Italy

138

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Mon 16 - Mon 23 with Dr Neil Faulkner

Italy

Umbria Mon 16 - Mon 23 with Peter Berridge

december Turin Festive Food Wed 20 - Tue 26 with Prof Valerie Higgins & Rosetta Ferrari

Italy

144

Ravenna at Christmas Thu 21 - Wed 27 with Prof Tony King

Italy

146

Barcelona at New Year | NEW Thu 28 - Tue 2 Jan 2018 with Dr Fernando López Sánchez

Spain

178

Venice at New Year Thu 28 - Wed 3 Jan 2018 with Dr Eireann Marshall

Italy

150

Italy

140

Italy

148

Native American Pueblos Mon 16 - Sat 28 with Prof Steve Lekson

USA

200

Italy | Festive Food in Bologna Thu 28 - Thu 4 Jan 2018 with Rosetta Ferrari and Tony O’Connor

Mexico Revisited Mon 16 - Tue 31 with David Drew

Mexico

158

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207

ESSENTIAL

booking information Useful information to guide you through the booking process. Please note that bookings with Andante Travels Ltd are accepted only in accordance with the terms and conditions set out in our full booking conditions, which can be found on our website or are available on request. how to Book You can book now on any of the tours listed in this brochure. We are happy to hold bookings on our tours without commitment for seven days. After this, we require a deposit to confirm your place (see left for deposit amounts). Balance payments will be requested 2 months before you depart for most tours and we will then send you practical information regarding the tour, flights, hotels, joining instructions and Field notes, detailing the archaeological sites you see on the tour. Your tickets will then be sent 10 days before departure. book by phone, by email or online For bookings made by telephone or email, payment can be made by card or cheque (payable to Andante Travels Ltd). You can pay securely via our website, in either sterling or dollars. We accept Visa, MasterCard and Visa Debit cards. For payments in sterling by credit card or overseas debit card there is a charge of 2.5% of the transaction. We do not accept post-dated cheques, nor do we keep your card details.

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programme changes For the vast majority of our tours, the programme will be exactly as described in the brochure. Occasionally we do make changes to the order or number of visits. This is usually due to opening hours, or in order to include a reopened site or museum. We always try to tell guests in advance of any changes. insurance It is a condition of booking that all travellers are covered by comprehensive travel insurance and do not travel against medical advice. You should organise it when you book, to ensure you have cover against possible cancellation charges, medical treatment and repatriation. We will need to know the details of your policy 4 weeks before departure at the latest. deposits £300 for tours costing up to £2000 £400 for tours costing £2001 to £3000 £450 for tours costing £3001 to £4000 £500 for tours costing over £4000 cancellation by you Cancellation charges payable to Andante are calculated on time prior to

departure as follows: Up to 56 days: Deposit* / 55 - 41 days: 35% of tour cost / 40 - 29 days: 55% of tour cost / 28 - 8 days: 75% of tour cost / 7 days to date of departure: 100% of tour cost | *plus any invoiced flight costs. cancellation by us If we have to cancel your holiday before the date of departure, you will have the choice of taking an alternative holiday (and paying or receiving a refund/ credit in respect of any price difference) or accepting a full refund of all monies paid. financial protection Flight inclusive tours: we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the CAA (ATOL No. 3552) which provides for your protection in the event of Andante’s insolvency. The price of your air holiday packages includes the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. This charge is included in our advertised prices. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected,

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where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme as explained below. Tours without flights arranged by us: The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Andante Travels, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK. 1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Andante Travels. aito quality charter Andante Travels is a member of the

Association of Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. Andante Travels abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.com. Visit the website to find out more about the Association or call 020 8744 9280.

The prices in this brochure are valid for all bookings taken from 1st July 2016. Last revised September 2016. We are ANDANTE TRAVELS LTD, registered limited company no. 1969761. Registered offices: The Clock Tower, Unit 4 Oakridge Office Park, Southampton Road, Whaddon, Salisbury, SP5 3HT.

what’s included • Expert Guide Lecturer • Tour Manager (with all groups of 15+) • Scheduled flights unless otherwise stated • Accommodation • Meals with wine where stated; meals are not provided on travelling days • Field notes, tips, entrance to all sites in the programme committed to sustainable tourism We work hard to ensure our visits have a positive impact on the ancient places we go to and acknowledge the importance of AITO’s sustainable tourism ethos, which recognises the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.

The vast majority of the pictures in this brochure were taken by our guests while on tours. We’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who sends us photos, we look forward to seeing you again next year!

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STUDY DAYS IN 2017

Prices f as litt rom le as pp

£85

Go Behind the Scenes with the Experts... Andante Study Days offer a privileged opportunity to go behind the scenes at renowned museums, galleries and archaeological sites. Discover more about Ancient Egypt with ‘behind the scenes’ special access at the Petrie Museum. Examine Britain’s first proven examples of Ice Age art at Creswell Crags with the man who discovered them, Paul Bahn. Handle ancient objects; discover how finds are conserved; and walk in the footsteps of our ancestors across the ancient landscapes of Britain... Just like our tours, each of our Study Days is led by an Expert Guide. These specialists invite you into their working lives, often offer privileged access while they do so. On the following page you’ll find a selection of our 2017 Study Days. We’re still hard at work creating the full programme, so be sure to check our website for updates. No knowledge is required to enjoy these fantastic days – just bring an enquiring mind! If you’d like to secure a place on one of our 2017 Study Days, please get in touch with us via the details below:

01722 713800 debbie@andantetravels.com Toll Free USA: 1-888-331-3476

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march - may Flinders Petrie & the Discovery of Egypt

18th March & 17th June with Lucia Gahlin at the Petrie Museum in London

Spaces Available

18th March & 27th May with Katie Tucker & Debbie Paton

Available

Learn how bone analysis can enhance our understanding of archaeological sites The First Great Woman in History

21st April with Dr Campbell Price in Manchester

28th April with Brian Ayers

Available

2nd May, 14th June, 20th July, 4th & 21st August with Jenny Hall & John Shepherd

Available

12th May with Tertia Barnett

Enigmatic rock art set in spectacularly dramatic scenery

Roman Colchester - Boudica & Beyond 7th July with Peter Berridge

Available

Special access to the basement of Colchester Castle and the Temple of the Divine Claudius 15th July with Mark Corney

Available

The mysteries of the White Horse - leaping dramatically from the Chalk downland hills Daily life in Iron Age and Roman Britain’ at Butser ancient farm, nr Waterlooville.

Available

21st July

Inside Stonehenge

July & Sept with Mark Corney & Debbie Paton

Available

With special early morning access inside the stones at Stonehenge and to Salisbury Museum

Discover the hidden world of Roman London, including Cripplegate Fort Northumbria Rock Art

Available

A unique hands on study day exploring experimental archaeology

Hunt for clues of Norwich’s tumultuous Viking past Roman London - What Lies Beneath

16th June & 11th August with Paul Bahn

The Uffington Walk

Examine the myths surrounding the reign of Hatshepsut - the first female Pharaoh Vikings Raiders & Traders

Ice Age Art Creswell Crags

Spaces

See Britain’s first proven example of Ice Age art alongside the man who discovered it

Enjoy exclusive special access ‘behind the scenes’ at the Petrie Museum

Human Osteoarchaeology at Winchester

june - august

Available

A Wessex Walk

19th August with Mark Corney

Available

Explore Europe’s largest prehistoric mound Silbury Hill - and Avebury’s vast Stone Circle

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the world leader in archaeological travel the clock tower, unit 4 oakridge office park, southampton road, whaddon, salisbury, sp5 3ht