MONASTIC ARCHAEOLOGY FIELD SCHOOL
The feeling of finding something from the Middle Ages with your own hands is incredible. That moment was the highlight of the dig for me. From start to finish, my time studying at St Andrews and digging at Lindores Abbey was an experience I would repeat in a heartbeat. Shawn P. (2024 Lindores MAFS Student)
About MAFS
The Monastic Archaeology Field School is committed to providing intensive educational experiences through hands-on archaeological fieldwork, historical study, and engagement with heritage management. At Lindores Abbey, we integrate field excavation and post-excavation work with lectures and discussions about the history of monasticism from its roots to the era of reformation in the sixteenth century in Scotland. Heritage Management is also a key focus, and students work toward our successful annual Open Day. An optional three-session intensive introduction to bioarchaeology is also available to interested students in the St Andrews History & Archaeology Lab.
Student (2024)
I really appreciated the different knowledge and skills all the instructors brought to the dig, and the patience they employed when helping students. For me this was a really very fun introduction to archaeology in a practical sense and I'm very thankful for that experience!
Student (2025)
I most appreciated the instructors for being so kind and supportive, as well as the structure of the course giving us time to explore Scotland.
Natalie, Student (2024), Intern (2025)
It has been amazing to return to site! Lindores Abbey is such a beautiful and comforting place that it makes every visit special. I spent the majority of my time last year digging in the orchard across the road so I am particularly excited to be exploring a different side of the abbey in this season's trenches.