Come and join us as we unearth the Palaeolithic of Bondi Cave
Bondi Cave: A Window into the Palaeolithic Era
Located in the Imereti region of western Georgia, Bondi Cave offers a unique glimpse into the Middle to Upper Palaeolithic transition, approximately 45,000 to 35,000 years ago—a pivotal time when Neanderthals gave way to anatomically modern humans across Europe and Eurasia. Set in a karstic landscape rich in Palaeolithic sites, Bondi Cave holds successive layers documenting both Neanderthal and modern human occupations. The artefacts uncovered, including over 10,950 lithic tools, animal bones, plant remains, and what may be the oldest known Anatomically Modern Humans fossil in the Caucasus, reveal vital details about early human dispersal, migration, and cultural evolution in the Caucasus.
Step Back in Time with Us
Join us next season as we delve further into Bondi Cave’s depths to uncover new insights into early human life. Our goal is to locate additional burials and explore deeper layers that may extend back to the Lower Palaeolithic, revealing environmental data from the late Pleistocene and capturing the climatic shifts that shaped early human adaptation.
During our 2024 season, participants helped re-establish our excavation grid and made a rare discovery—a Neolithic juvenile burial. Alongside this, over 2,000 stone tools were uncovered, showcasing the site’s archaeological richness and drawing the attention of Georgian media.
Exploring Humanity’s Past at Bondi Cave: Our Mission
In partnership with Historic World Georgia, Dr Niko Tushabramishvili, and Ilia State University, Past to Present Archaeology is uncovering the story of early human life in the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains. Our work at Bondi Cave focuses on a critical period of human history—the transition from the Middle to Upper Palaeolithic, approximately 45,000 to 27,000 years ago. This cave, rich in stratigraphy and artefacts, provides a rare glimpse into how early humans adapted their tool-making, hunting practices, and cultural behaviours during a time of significant environmental change.
Our mission is to push the boundaries of human origins research, offering participants hands-on training in excavation and artefact analysis, and a unique opportunity to work on one of Georgia’s most significant prehistoric sites. Bondi Cave’s findings, from ancient tools to some of the region’s earliest fossils, allow us to piece together how our ancestors survived and thrived in challenging landscapes.
We are also committed to creating a lasting impact on the Chiatura and Imereti region by supporting local economies, promoting heritage tourism, and enhancing community engagement. By preserving and showcasing Georgia’s extraordinary heritage, we aim to contribute to both cultural pride and economic growth.
Your support, whether through active participation or charitable donations, enables this essential research and conservation work. Together, we can explore our ancient past and ensure that Georgia’s remarkable history is preserved for future generations.
Project Dates:
Bondi Period 1: Sunday 6th July to Sunday 13th July 2025
Bondi Period 2: Sunday 13th July to Sunday 20th July 2025
Bondi Period 3: Sunday 20th July to Sunday 27th July 2025
Bondi Period 4: Sunday 27th July to Sunday 3rd August 2025
Bondi Phase 1: Sunday 6th July to Sunday 20th July 2025
Bondi Phase 2: Sunday 20th July to Sunday 3rd August 2025
Bondi All: Sunday 6th July to Sunday 3rd August 2025
Pricing:
One-Week Intensive: Immerse yourself for a week with accommodation at £1,000 per person.
Two-Week Deep Dive: Extend your learning with a two-week stay for £1,800.
Four-Week Exploration: Master your skills over four weeks for £3,000.
Please note: Travel costs to and from Georgia are not included. Payment plans available.
Hands-On Archaeological Training at Bondi Cave
Under the guidance of archaeologists from Past to Present Archaeology and Historic World Georgia, you’ll gain hands-on experience in a range of essential archaeological techniques, specifically tailored to the unique challenges of cave excavation. Your training will include:
- Single-Context Excavation: Receive guided training in precise excavation techniques, with support throughout as you learn to document complex cave stratigraphy accurately.
- Maintaining Accurate Site Records: Develop skills in record-keeping, with guidance to ensure each discovery is properly documented.
- Archaeological Site Photography: Learn basic photography techniques for capturing excavation details, with hands-on support from our experienced team.
- Artefact Retrieval and Cataloguing: Gain practical experience in carefully retrieving and cataloguing artefacts, under the supervision of our archaeologists.
- 3D Survey of Artefacts: Participate in 3D surveying, creating digital records that aid in analysis and preservation, with step-by-step instruction.
- Lithic Identification and Typological Analysis: Begin learning to identify and classify stone tools, an essential skill for studying early tool-making, with expert guidance.
- Drawing Archaeological Plans and Sections: Receive instruction on producing scaled drawings, essential for interpreting cave sites.
- Archaeological Interpretation and Sequencing: Work alongside our team to interpret artefacts and layers, developing a deeper understanding of the site’s history.
This is a rare opportunity to learn specialised skills within the fascinating environment of an ancient cave, adding depth to your archaeological expertise.
Catering and Accommodation:
Participants will stay in comfortable shared accommodation across two houses—one located at Bondi and the other in Chiatura. Rooms are primarily twin-shared, with communal bathroom and toilet facilities.
All meals are included in the package, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout your stay. You’ll enjoy a variety of dishes prepared by trainee chefs, offering a taste of local Georgian cuisine. For a true cultural experience, select meals will be accompanied by carefully chosen local Georgian wines, adding a touch of the region’s renowned hospitality to your stay.
Additional Information and Extras
Our archaeological sessions run Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with a break for lunch at 1:00 pm. Saturdays are dedicated to excursions, where participants will visit an archaeological site each week. These excursions include lunch, then dinner at a local restaurant, and a Georgian wine-tasting experience. Sundays are reserved as transfer days and for rest.
FAQs
Where is Imereti Region, and which airport should I fly to?
The Imereti Region is located in western Georgia, highlighted in purple on our map. The two main airports serving this area are Tbilisi and Kutaisi. Transfers can be arranged from either airport, with a scheduled meeting point and time—typically midday (12:00 pm) on Sundays. Be sure to indicate your arrival details on your participant form to confirm your transfer. Taxis are also affordable, and buses connect to both Tbilisi and Kutaisi.
What can I expect to learn during the field school?
The Bondi project is specific to cave archaeology, offering training tailored to the unique challenges and techniques of excavating cave sites. Participants will learn a variety of skills, from setting up excavation grids to artefact retrieval, documentation, and environmental sampling—all within the context of cave environments.
What should I bring?
We recommend packing for warm weather, as summer temperatures in Georgia range between 25-30°C. Sturdy footwear, such as steel-toe capped boots, and durable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty are essential. Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and gloves (spares will be available on-site). While bedding is provided, please remember to bring your own towel.
Where will the weekly excursions be?
- Week 1: Our excursion will take you to Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town carved into cliffs overlooking the Mtkvari River. Dating back to the 1st millennium BC, this site offers a unique glimpse into Georgia’s past, with fascinating rock-cut temples, intricate tunnel systems, and panoramic views. You’ll also visit the Uplistsikhe Winery to sample traditional Georgian wines, making this excursion a perfect blend of history, culture, and local flavour.
- Week 2: At the end of the week, we’ll visit Geguti Palace and Motsameta Monastery. Geguti Palace, a 12th-century royal residence, showcases the grandeur of medieval Georgian architecture and offers insights into the country’s noble history. Following this, we’ll explore Motsameta Monastery, perched on a cliff above the Tskaltsitela River, known for its serene beauty and deeply rooted legends. This journey combines the elegance of Georgian royalty with the spirituality of an ancient monastic site.
- Week 3: Our next excursion will take you to Nokalakevi, an ancient fortress city dating back to the 3rd century BC, also known as the “City of the Lost Kings.” Nokalakevi was a crucial stronghold in the Kingdom of Colchis, where you’ll explore ancient walls, towers, and archaeological sites that reveal layers of Georgian history, from Hellenistic influences to medieval fortifications.
- Week 4: Finally, we’ll visit the Vani Archaeological Site, a former religious and political centre of ancient Colchis, dating back to the 8th century BC. Known for its rich findings, including gold jewellery and intricate artefacts, Vani showcases the advanced craftsmanship and culture of ancient Georgia, connecting you with the legendary kingdom of the Golden Fleece.
Do I need a trowel?
If you have your own trowel, feel free to bring it. Alternatively, you can purchase one of our excavation packs, which includes a trowel. Full details are available on the booking page.
Is there a site t-shirt?
Yes, a site t-shirt and even a site hoody will be available for order online prior to your arrival.
Is there a site dog?
Yes, we have a friendly site dog named Nicky.
How can I support the project if I can’t attend?
If you’re unable to join us in person, you can still support our research through our Season Membership. Members receive updates, video tours, and a summary report, plus a chance to visit the site during our open day.
Help Us Crowdfund this Dig: Become a Season Member!
Support our mission to uncover the the roots of our ancient past, even if you can’t join us in the field. By becoming a Season Member for just £50, you’ll gain exclusive access to our dig from the comfort of your home and enjoy a range of perks:
- Project Updates: Stay up to date with regular reports from the dig, featuring insights into our latest discoveries and behind-the-scenes stories.
- Video Tours with the Team: Experience the site virtually through video tours led by our team of archaeologists, giving you a closer look at the excavation process and key finds.
- Summary Report: Receive a detailed report summarising the project’s findings, delivered straight to your inbox in January 2026.
- Free Site Tour: If you are visiting Georgia, you are welcome to visit the dig site in person with a complimentary tour
- Museum Lectures: Enjoy free video link to the afternoon of lectures at the Chiatura Museum (date to be confirmed), where we’ll discuss the Palaeolithic archaeology of the region.
Your membership not only supports our archaeological research but also makes you a valued part of our community.
If you have any questions about our field schools, feel free to reach out to us at projects@pasttopresent.org. We’re here to help!