School

The Archaeological School at Hofstaðir

The Archaeological School operated at Hofstaðir and in Vatnsfjörður in Ísafjarðardjúp from 1997 to 2013. It was founded by the Archaeological Institute of Iceland and the North Atlantic Archaeological Network (NABO). Over 200 students have graduated from the school, producing nearly 100 doctoral and master’s theses on Icelandic and North Atlantic archaeology. The school has attracted scholars from around the world and has long been a cornerstone institution in North Atlantic archaeology. After a hiatus due to financial constraints and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Archaeological School is now once again being run at Hofstaðir under the Field Academy, with plans for further development.

The school runs for one month during the height of summer. Students reside at Hofstaðir, receiving practical guidance in Icelandic archaeology, fieldwork methods, and site preservation. The school aims to spark students’ interest in North Atlantic archaeology, cultural mediation, and how cultural heritage can serve as a tourist attraction. Additionally, the school seeks to facilitate research in Iceland by helping students establish connections with scholars and institutions, and by offering advice on potential research projects.

The Archaeological School is a 10-credit graduate-level course, intended for postgraduate students in archaeology. Students who have completed 90 credits in undergraduate studies may also apply. A background in archaeology, anthropology, and/or history is required, with priority given to students with an interest in North Atlantic archaeology. Applications are reviewed by specialists, with assessment based on education, experience, and research interests.

For more information, visit the school’s website: https://rif.hi.is/is/afsh

Photo gallery of the excavation and the Archaeology School at Hofstaðir

© The Institute of Archaeology, Iceland.