The World of Archaeology

Dr. Jane de Grandmaison: My Journey Through Time

Born amidst the picturesque hills of Dordogne, France, in 1975, I was always surrounded by history. Dordogne, with its rich prehistoric legacy, including the famed Lascaux cave paintings, ignited my passion for archaeology from a tender age.

I began my academic exploration at the University of Bordeaux, immersing myself in the study of archaeology. My undergraduate thesis delved into the ritualistic practices of Neolithic communities in southwestern France, marking the inception of my lifelong fascination with the intricate tapestries of ancient societies.

With a desire to broaden my horizons, I ventured to the University of Cambridge for my master's and eventually my Ph.D. My doctoral research, a deep dive into the trade routes of ancient Mediterranean societies, was a confluence of fieldwork and modern technology. Through it, I uncovered hidden connections between ancient communities.

After my academic pursuits in Cambridge, I returned to France to become a part of the esteemed French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS). There, I pioneered the use of advanced satellite imaging techniques to discover and document archaeological sites, earning the attention and respect of my international peers.

The subsequent years saw me at the helm of international expeditions, ranging from the arid deserts of Egypt to the dense jungles of South America. My work earned mentions in renowned publications like National Geographic and Archaeology Today, among countless academic journals. Collaborative projects became a cornerstone of my career, fostering ties between traditional archaeology and technological innovation.

In 2017, I took a leap by founding the Archaeological Outreach Foundation. My mission was clear: to educate the masses about the invaluable significance of preserving our cultural heritage. Today, I'm proud to say that the foundation's footprint spans over 20 countries.

Outside of my excavations and research, I cherish the symphonies of life. Being an accomplished violinist, I often find parallels between the intricate notes of music and the meticulousness required during archaeological digs. And though I've unearthed countless artifacts, my greatest treasures are my husband and two children.

In 2021, I was deeply honored to receive the Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur for my contributions to French culture and science. As I reflect on my journey, I remain endlessly captivated by the stories of the past and eager to uncover more.

1. The Lost City of Pharos, Egypt:

In 2003, I spearheaded an expedition to a previously uncharted region south of Giza. Using satellite imaging, we discovered an ancient city buried beneath the desert sands, believed to be the Lost City of Pharos. Our team unearthed an impressive array of statues, golden artifacts, and hieroglyph-covered stones that provided a deeper understanding of the late Old Kingdom period.

2. Amazonian Echoes, Brazil:

In 2007, venturing into the dense Amazon rainforest, we unearthed remnants of an ancient civilization previously unknown. These people had created intricate pottery and had complex agricultural systems. The find was particularly striking as it debunked previous beliefs about the limited urbanization of ancient Amazonian cultures.

3. Temples of the Sky, Bhutan:

In 2010, I led a team into the lofty Himalayas of Bhutan. Here, perched on a nearly inaccessible cliff, we discovered ruins of temples dedicated to sky deities. The murals inside provided rich insights into pre-Buddhist spiritual practices in the region.

4. The Sunken Palace, Aegean Sea, Greece:

In 2014, embracing underwater archaeology, we explored the depths of the Aegean Sea. We discovered the remnants of what seemed to be a Minoan palace, possibly swallowed by the sea after an earthquake. The artifacts retrieved hinted at trade connections with far-off lands, including Egypt and the Indus Valley.

5. The Labyrinth of Anatolia, Turkey:

In 2018, our team excavated a series of underground tunnels in central Anatolia. These labyrinths were filled with inscriptions, frescoes, and traps. They appeared to be a combination of storage, religious sanctum, and perhaps, a refuge during times of conflict. The find shed light on the intricate urban planning and architectural prowess of ancient Anatolian civilizations.

6. The Nomads of the Gobi, Mongolia:

In 2021, my team and I ventured into the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert. Here, we stumbled upon burial mounds containing artifacts from the various nomadic tribes that once roamed the region. From ornate jewelry to weapons and horse equipment, the finds painted a vivid picture of nomadic life on the ancient Silk Road.