Archaeology Explorers -- National Geographic

Meet the Explorers

Afghanistan's Hidden Treasures

Concealed from invading Soviets, later from the Taliban, and feared lost, a trove of precious antiquities reveals the rich cultures that came together at one of history's great crossroads.
The Valley of the Khans Project

While diving deep into ancient mysteries of the unknown and forging through some of the most unexplored regions of central Asia, the Valley of the Khans Project continues to search for clues that can unlock one of the greatest secrets of modern history.
Sea of Cortez Underwater Archaeology Project

Archaeologist Amy Gusick and her team are going underwater in the Sea of Cortez to search for evidence of the New World’s earliest inhabitants.
Central Nicaragua Archaeology Project

Alexander Geurds sheds light on monoliths and stelae in Nicaragua.
Human Origins Project

The world's top paleontologists, archaeologists, and geologists are on an ambitious mission to trace the origins of man.
Egypt's Last Pharaoh

Our new exhibition tracing the life, loves, and death of Cleopatra is now open in Philadelphia.

Explorer Moment: Ray of Hope

Biologist Andrea Marshall leads her team in discovering new and conserving known manta ray species.
Sylvia Earle on Women in Science

Sylvia Earle reflects on her scientific career and on gender obstacles she faced along the way.

Mystery of Cleopatra

Investigate a murder in Cleopatra's palace.
Lilly Wu and the Terra Cotta Mystery

Use forensic archaeology to solve the death of China's first emperor.
Quiz Your Noodle: Ancient Maya

How much do you know about the ancient Mesoamerican Maya civilization?

My Shot Archaeology

Scroll through hundreds of archaeology images. Click on a thumbnail to enlarge.
People and Culture Photos

Explore hundreds of photos of different cultures and their people.

Roman Frontiers Pictures

Rome’s border walls were the beginning of its end.
Easter Island Pictures

How did the Easter Island statues move? That question puzzles archaeologists—and modern-day islanders.
Terra-Cotta Army Pictures

Archaeologists and artists, armed with the latest tools and techniques, are bringing the life-size army of painted clay soldiers back to life.

Explorer Moment: Ray of Hope

Biologist Andrea Marshall leads her team in discovering new and conserving known manta ray species.
Sylvia Earle on Women in Science

Sylvia Earle reflects on her scientific career and on gender obstacles she faced along the way.