Workshop for Architectural Conservation of Archaeological Sites

The Project and Course

General information

Project type: Field school in architectural conservation of archaeological remains. The variety of activities and the team's professionalism and flexibility make this project suitable for both beginners and advanced students in architecture, Roman, Late Roman and Medieval archaeology and conservation.

Тhe field school started: 2025

Site and venue: The Archaeological site of Stobi is located near the village of Gradsko, the Republic of North Macedonia. Since 2012, Stobi has been included in the World Monuments Fund Watch list among the sites with universal significance - read more here!

Period in the project's focus: Roman, Late Roman (2nd century - 6th century CE)   

Major field school topics/activities: The main goal of this program is to provide both theoretical and hands-on experience in architectural conservation of Roman and late Roman buildings. It does so through the involvement of students in the ongoing conservation project of the so-called Theodosian palace at Stobi, enabling them to participate in the entire work process - from evaluating conservation problems, approaches, methods, and techniques to choosing materials and actual conservation work on site.

BHF Partners in this project:    

• National Institution Stobi, Republic of North Macedonia;    
• Skillington Workshop, UK  
• New Bulgarian University, Bulgaria.

Field school coordinators: Dr. Silvana Blazhevska (Director of NI Stobi) &  Dimitar Nikolovski (archaeologist, NI Stobi, PhD Candidate in Archaeology);

Visiting professor: Dr. David Carrington, founder and Managing Director of Skillington Workshop and accredited Conservator-Restorer (ACR)

Field School Dates: May 23– June 05, 2026 

Application deadlines: Until the places are filled, or April 23, 2026

Minimum length of stay for volunteers: Two weeks 

Minimum age: 18

Number of field school places available: Maximum 18  

Project language: English

Academic credits available: 6 ECTS credits are available through New Bulgarian University, Bulgaria. 

Experience required: No previous experience is required.   

Visa Note: Citizens of the EU, EEA, UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand do not need entry visas for the Republic of North Macedonia for up to 90 days. Those from countries not specified should check in advance if they require entry visas and any associated costs will be the responsibility of the participants.

Special requirements: The project is not recommended for individuals with solar allergies or other special illnesses that might be exacerbated during the intensive outdoor activities. The average May temperatures in the area are 20-30°C (77-88°F) or higher. All participants should bring clothes and toiletries suitable for hot and sunny weather. Bear in mind that chillier days are very rare but not uncommon.       

The participants should have medical insurance including repatriation. The participants should inform the project staff about any health issues, allergies, and food preferences.  

Participants are expected to prepare for the field by reading the readings that will be sent by e-mail before the beginning of the project.    

Participants will use the tools and equipment available at the site and are not expected to bring any additional equipment.

The Site and Excavation Project

The ancient city of Stobi was the largest urban centre in the northern part of Roman Macedonia and later the capital of the province Macedonia Secunda. Its strategic position at the crossroads of the Axios valley route (Thessalonica–Stobi–Singidunum) and the diagonal road (Heraclea–Stobi–Serdica) made it an important administrative, commercial, and religious hub throughout the Roman and Late Roman periods.

The earliest mention of Stobi comes from Livy, who refers to Stobi in four passages, one of them revealing the location at the confluence of the Axios and Erigon rivers. After the Roman conquest, the city became part of the Fourth Meris and developed into a major salt-trading centre linking Macedonia with Dardania. Stobi gained the status of oppidum civium Romanorum in the 1st century BCE and became a municipium somewhat later. A coin mint was established under Emperor Vespasian in 69 CE.

The city flourished from the 1st to the 3rd centuries CE, when its most notable monuments were built: the Theatre, the Temple of Isis and Serapis, the Synagogue, the Building with Arches, and the Casa Romana. After a major earthquake around 300 CE, Stobi was rebuilt in the early 4th century CE and became the seat of a Christian bishop who participated in the Council of Nicaea in 325 CE.

In the 5th and 6th centuries CE, Stobi served as the capital of Macedonia Secunda and one of the leading Christian centres in the Balkans. Magnificent buildings such as the Theodosian Palace, the House of Peristeria, the Episcopal Basilica with its baptistery, and the Episcopal Residence (Casino) reflect the city’s prosperity. Stobi was attacked by the Ostrogoths under Theoderic the Amal (later Theoderic the Great) in 479 CE, and another earthquake around 520 CE damaged much of the city. Despite this, life continued until the early 7th century CE, when the city was abandoned.

During the Medieval period (11th–14th centuries CE), a small settlement survived among the ruins, but Stobi eventually disappeared from record until its rediscovery in the late 19th century.

History of Excavation and Conservation of the Theodosian Palace:

One of the most representative residential buildings in Stobi – the Theodosian Palace (1330 sq. m.) is located at the center of the city, bordered by two main streets: Via Principalis Inferior and Via Principalis Superior. The building, which is richly decorated with mosaics, was given its name by early scholars under the assumption that the emperor Theodosius I was accommodated there during his visit to Stobi in 388 CE. The residence consists of a large peristyle court with corridors and a large fountain/nymphaion, 11 rooms around the courtyard, including a large triclinium to the south and a vestibule with corridors on the east. The floors in the north and west corridors are covered with mosaic floors in opus tessellatum, the court in opus segmentatum and the triclinium is covered with sectile, while the four smaller apsidal rooms on the northwest side are covered with mosaics in opus tessellatum and opus sectile. The walls are built of sandstone and lime mortar. Most of the architectural marble is preserved in fragments and left in the courtyard.

The palace was excavated in the 1920s (1927-1929) and some test trenches were dug in the 1970s and 2014-2015. In the 1920s, the walls were protected with cement caps. In 2005-2006, conservation was carried out in the eastern part of the house, the courtyard and the north wall using cement-based mortar. Preventive conservation was carried out on the mosaic floors in the 1970s.

In 2022, the Balkan Heritage Foundation and the National Institution Stobi received a grant from the J. M. Kaplan Fund, USA, for the conservation of the Theodosian Palace of Stobi. The British conservation company Skillington was contracted to work together with the local team. In order to support their efforts in 2025, we are launching a new field school that will provide a unique opportunity for students and volunteers to gain comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in the conservation of authentic archaeological structures in the ancient city of Stobi, made with Roman and Late Roman masonry.   

In addition to the generous support of the J. M. Kaplan Fund, the project has received new funding in 2025 from the American Institute for Roman Culture (AIRC) under its Expandere Conscientiae Lumen initiative, ensuring the continuation of the conservation of the Theodosian Palace.

The Field School

FIELD SCHOOL FOR PRESERVATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS 

The field school launched in 2025 and provides a unique opportunity for students and volunteers to gain comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in the conservation of authentic archaeological structures in the ancient city of Stobi, made with Roman and Late Roman masonry.

During the workshop, participants will be guided through the consequent stages of study, conservation and documentation as well as the history and technology of Roman and Late Roman archaeological masonry structures.

The project includes three modules:

• practical work in documentation and both preventive and interventive conservation of archaeological structures
• lectures on history and conservation on standing archaeological structures   
• as well as excursions to the town of Bitola, the archaeological site of Heraclea Lyncestis, Ohrid, and Ohrid Lake (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Refer to the Course Program and Agenda

By the end of the workshop, the participants will:

• develop basic/further practical skills (depending on the participants' initial level of qualification) in the conservation and documentation of archaeological structures
• be able to recognize the many types of pathology of archaeological masonry and their causes
• become familiar with the history and techniques of Roman masonry construction
• deepen their knowledge through a first-hand experience of Roman History, Arts and Archaeology in the region of ancient Macedonia
• meet professionals who work in the areas of conservation and Classical Archaeology.

All participants will receive:

• Reading materials (in PDF version by e-mail);
• Balkan Heritage Field School Certificate specifying the fieldwork hours, educational modules, and sites visited;
• T-shirt.

The Team   

Instructors, Trainers and Area Supervisors:        

• Dr. David Carrington, founder and Managing Director of Skillington Workshop and an accredited Conservator-Restorer (ACR).     

• Dimitar Nikolovski (archaeologist, NI Stobi)    

• Stefan Stoyanov (Architect, Heritage Specialist)

The Program

The two-week field school session provides a minimum of 75 hours of fieldwork, workshops/lab work, lectures/instructions and guided tours.

Lecture topics include:   

• Roman and Hellenistic construction techniques 
• Understanding traditional mortars 
• Pathology and conservation of archaeological stone masonry 
• Ecology and archaeological ruins 
• Practical techniques such as consolidation using mortars   

• Structural solutions for archaeological ruins  

• Different approaches to treating wall heads

• Earth mortars
• How to present the pointing of archaeological structures
• Reconstructing/ restoring losses
• Site maintenance  

• Understanding traditional mortars: field and laboratory analysis techniques

Reading Background

Ashurst, J. (ed) Conservation of Ruins, Routledge, 2007

Copsey, N. Hot mixed lime and traditional mortars, Crowood Press, 2019

Copsey, N. The rudiments of traditional mortar preparation and use. Archaeology and Science, 2022

Dilaria S., Secco M. Mortar recipes through the Ages. A brief review of data from Prehistory to Late Antiquity, Archaeology and Science, 2022

Henry, A. et al. (ed) Earth Brick and Terracotta Part A, Historic England, 2015

Martin, B., Wood, C. (ed) Practical Building Conservation: Mortars, Renders and Plasters, Historic England, 2012

Martin, B., Wood, C. (ed) Practical Building Conservation: Building Environment, Historic England, 2014

McCaig, I. (ed) Practical Building Conservation: Conservation Basics, Historic England, 2024

Odgers, D., Henry, A. (ed) Practical Building Conservation: Stone, Historic England, 2012

Travel & Accommodation & Practicalities   

Travel   

All participants are individually responsible for arranging and covering the cost of their travel to the host country, including booking flights and obtaining any required travel documents or visas (if applicable).

Nearest Airports

The closest international airports to the Stobi site are:

Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia – approximately 80 km / 49 miles

Thessaloniki, Greece – approximately 160 km / 100 miles

Transfers from these airports to Stobi can be arranged upon request.

Transfer Arrangements

Participants who wish to use the BHFS transfer service must provide their flight details one month before the program starts to the BHFS Admissions Officer.

This information should be submitted when completing the Travel Form, within the timeframe requested. Failure to provide this information on time will be considered as a confirmation that the participant intends to travel to the site independently.

In such cases, the BHF will have no obligation to arrange or assist with airport transfers, and participants will be fully responsible for reaching the site on their own.

Transfer fees:

From Skopje Airport / Bus / Railway Station to Stobi – up to 140 EUR per ride

(the cost can be shared if 2–3 participants arrive around the same time)

From Thessaloniki Airport (Greece) – up to 200 EUR per ride

(the cost can be shared if 2–3 participants arrive together)

Transfers are provided by taxi, and the fee must be paid in cash directly to the driver.

Transfer Coordination

The pick-up time will be scheduled in advance by the Stobi Coordinator.

Final transfer details, including the exact departure time and the names of participants sharing a taxi (if applicable), will be sent one week before the program start, once all itineraries have been confirmed.

All participants, whether booked for a shared or individual transfer, must inform the coordinator immediately if their flight, train, or bus is delayed, canceled, or rescheduled.

Failure to provide timely notice may result in additional transfer charges.

Information for participants who will arrange their own transportation:

Bus or Train:

The main bus and train stations of Skopje are in the same area.

From Skopje to Stobi or Gradsko:

- Trains run at 06:23 am to Stobi: https://mzt.mk/poagane-od-skopje/

- Buses run every hour from 6am to 9pm to Gradsko

https://ruleturs.techinreact.com/?SearchCity=%D0%93%D0%A0%D0%90%D0%94%D0%1%D0%9A%D0%9E&SearchTransporter=&Datum=2023-05-10

From the Gradsko or Stobi train station, participants can call the organizers for a ride to

the site (between 9.00 am and 8.00 pm on the arrival day).

Link for international railway connections: http://www.eurorailways.com

Visa Requirements: Citizens of the EU, EEA, UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa to visit the Republic of North Macedonia for up to 90 days. Citizens of all other countries may need a visa. The Balkan Heritage Foundation can provide an official invitation letter to facilitate the visa application process at the relevant embassy. For further details, please visit our visa information page.

Accommodation & Meals 

Accommodation: Participants will be accommodated in the recently renovated air-conditioned cabins at the archaeological base next to the ancient ruins of Stobi, in rooms with two to three beds. Every cabin has 4 bedrooms and living room, 2 bathrooms with showers and WC. A washing machine and Wi-Fi are available for free at the site. 

Meals: Three meals (fresh, homemade food) per day are covered by the reimbursement payment. They usually take place (except for the lunch packages during the excursions) at the base's premises. Requests for vegetarian food are accepted. Specialized diets (vegan, kosher, gluten-free etc.) are difficult to maintain at this location.

Participants must pay on their own for extra meals, beverages, services and products. There is no option for single room accommodation at Stobi.   

Free Time & Trips

Free time: Films, sports games, and visits to nearby towns and villages are among the available evening leisure activities.

Technicalities & Practicalities

Insurance: The reimbursement payment does not cover insurance. Students must arrange their own health insurance before their trip to the  Republic of North Macedonia. There are hospitals, clinics and pharmacies in all the larger towns. Foreigners must pay for health services, but might receive a refund if their home country has signed the Health Insurance Convention with the Republic of North Macedonia (you should check this information with your Ministry of Health). The insurance must cover, as a minimum, the following risks: medical treatment in case of an accident or disease, as well as costs related to evacuation and repatriation.

Weather: A moderate continental climate dominates in Stobi. Summers there are usually hot (up to 40-45° C; 100 – 110° F). Rainy and chilly days in this season are rare but not excluded.   

Important notice:

If you plan to use your credit/debit card in North Macedonia, please inform your bank before

departure! The currency in North Macedonia is the Macedonian DENAR (DEN) and its the only accepted currency in the country. You can see notes and coins in circulation at:

http://www.nbrm.mk/?ItemID=C2B15406ABC3BC46B2525F6...

Please note that shopping malls, hypermarkets and many shops in North Macedonia, bigger towns and resorts will accept credit / debit cards. However that's not the case for the smaller “domestic” shops throughout the country where the only method of payment is cash.

What to bring?   

• Work shoes (a pair of comfortable hiking shoes) and clothes that will suit outdoor work. Keep in mind the diverse weather conditions (from rainy and cool to sunny and warm)! Don’t forget both your raincoats and sunscreen. Long trousers are recommended because of the potentially harmful plants, insects and reptiles.
• Clothing suitable for an outdoor working environment: sun-hat and light clothes with long sleeves and legs (protecting from the sun and insects), including a light raincoat (consider weather conditions - hot and sunny, but rain may fall as well);   
• Wide-brim hat;   
• Small backpack (for your water bottle, snacks, camera, etc.)
• Medication - only prescription medication you may need, since you can buy all basic non-prescription drugs in North Macedonia, make sure to have all your medication in your carry-on luggage 
• A converter to an EU-type electricity wall plug if needed.   
• E-SIM or Data Roaming: We strongly recommend that participants purchase an e-SIM card with mobile internet tailored to their personal needs while in North Macedonia, unless they have coverage through their data roaming plan. While the hotels provide internet access, we cannot guarantee its quality or reliability, which may include interruptions, excessive network load, or potential server issues.
• A good attitude for work, fun, study and discoveries ;)

   

     

• NB! Excavation & documentation tools and materials, as well as working gloves, are available at the site!   
• More information https://www.bhfieldschool.org/information/parents...
   

The Cost   

All field schools are organized as non-profit initiatives by the Balkan Heritage Foundation. The expenses related to participation in the field school, including costs incurred by participants, are financed through reimbursement payments made by the participants themselves.

BHFS project reimbursement payment includes coverage for: educational and fieldwork activities, accommodation and meals, tools and materials, access to project readings, issuance of a Certificate of Attendance, administrative costs, and travel related to fieldwork and excursions included in the program, along with relevant entrance fees.

BHFS project reimbursement payment does not cover: travel expenses to and from Sofia, nor any costs associated with activities not included in the field school program. Additionally, it does not include medical products and services or any expenses related to medical quarantine (such as food delivery or accommodation).

The costs in USD are approximate. Please check current exchange rates!

Early Bird Cost - until January 31, 2026:

Early Bird Cost for a two-week project session is 3299 EUR/ approx. 3799 USD

Regular Cost - after January 31, 2026:   

The Regular Cost for a two-week project session is 3599 EUR/ approx. 4125 USD   

Reimbursement Transfer Options:

- Bank transfer
- Online transfers via the Balkan Heritage virtual POS Terminal. VISA, MASTERCARD & MAESTRO cards are accepted.      
-  Wise money transfer

For further information, contact the Admissions Office at: [email protected]!

 Discounts off the regular cost:

* 5% DISCOUNT OFF the regular cost available for:

1. Participation in more than one BHFS project in 2026 (discount applies to the second, third, etc. project).
2. Membership in the Archaeological Institute of America.

* 10% DISCOUNT OFF the regular cost available for:

1. Participation in any BHFS project/s in the past.

* 12% DISCOUNT OFF the regular cost available for:

1. Group Participation (three or more people who participate together in one BHFS project in 2026). The discount is valid for each participant.

* 15% DISCOUNT OFF the regular cost is available for:

1. Group Participation (three or more people, who participate in more than one BHFS project in 2026 (the discount is valid for each participant).
2. BHFS alumni who participate in more than one BHFS project in 2026. (discount applies to the second, third, etc. project).
3. BHFS alumni who attended a full project in the past and returned to the same project.

NOTE: 5% OF EVERY COST FOR THIS PROJECT DIRECTLY SUPPORTS THE BALKAN HERITAGE PROTECTION FUND'S ACTIVITIES!

For more information about scholarships, low-cost flights, hotels, etc., please feel free to contact us or look at our recommended links.

Academic Credits   

US credit units are available to all students. To obtain US credits and certification, apply and enroll directly through the Institute for Field Research (IFR), USA. They will be awarded 8 semester credit units (equivalent to 12 quarter units) through our academic partner, Connecticut College and will receive a letter grade. The tuition fee is included in the IFR admission fee.   

ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credit units are available for students attending European universities. They shall enroll directly through the Balkan Heritage Field School. New Bulgarian University grants 12 ECTS credits for attending the four-week session. Transcripts of Records (ToR) are available upon request for an additional tuition fee. For details: Regulations for Obtaining Transcripts of Records.

Participants in the field school who do not need academic credit units are not expected to pay for them.