Best Archaeology Books of 2025

Wilson Cook Avatar
Wilson Cook
Last Updated: May 9, 2023

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Archaeology books provide a fascinating insight into the history and culture of ancient civilizations. These books cover a wide range of topics, including the excavation of archaeological sites, the interpretation of artifacts, and the study of human evolution. They offer readers a chance to learn about the lives, customs, and beliefs of people who lived thousands of years ago, and to understand how these cultures have influenced our modern world. Whether you are an archaeology enthusiast, a student of history, or simply curious about the past, there is a wealth of knowledge to be gained from these books.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Fingerprints of the Gods: The Evidence of Earth's Lost Civilization Cover #TOP 1
Fingerprints of the Gods: The Evidence of Earth's Lost Civilization
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Where God Came Down Cover #TOP 2
Where God Came Down
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World’s First Empire Cover #TOP 3
Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World’s First Empire
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Archaeology Books

Fingerprints of the Gods: The Evidence of Earth's Lost Civilization

Hancock, Graham
Crown
Apr 2, 1996
Fingerprints of the Gods: The Evidence of Earth's Lost Civilization Cover
Fingerprints of the Gods: The Evidence of Earth's Lost Civilization

Fingerprints of the Gods by Graham Hancock is a thought-provoking book that challenges the conventional understanding of human history. The author presents evidence from archaeo-astronomy, geology, and ancient myths to suggest that human civilization may be older and more advanced than previously believed. The book takes readers on a journey across the world, exploring ancient monuments and revealing the fingerprints of a lost civilization. The book also warns of a cataclysmic event that may recur in irregular intervals. Overall, the book is an intriguing and entertaining read that offers a fresh perspective on human history and the potential dangers that lie ahead.

#TOP 2

Where God Came Down

Joel P. Kramer
Sourceflix | Expedition Bible
Oct 14, 2020

Where God Came Down: The Archaeological Evidence is a fascinating book that examines the agreement between the Bible and archaeology. Author Joel Kramer uses Scripture as his primary ancient text and interpretive tool, and examines the archaeological record for ten locations recorded in the Bible. The book is full of photos, maps, graphics, and illustrations that expertly lay out the evidence and show how archaeology speaks for the Bible, not against it. Kramer delves deeper into the Gospel-significance that ancient, unimportant places are still known to us today because they are the stage where redemption's story played out on earth. This book is a must-read for those looking to deepen their understanding of biblical context and give evidence-based reasons for trusting the Bible.

#TOP 3

Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World’s First Empire

Frahm, Eckart
Apr 4, 2023
Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World’s First Empire Cover
Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World’s First Empire

A new history book titled "Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World’s First Empire" by historian Eckart Frahm is a comprehensive account of the ancient civilization that established the model for future empires. The book not only covers the Assyrians' conquests but also their vast libraries, trade, and information networks, highlighting the crucial role played by royal women. The author's nearly two centuries of research offer a rich picture of the Assyrians and their empire beyond the battlefield. Despite Assyria's crushing by rising powers, their legacy has endured and influenced other empires, including Rome. This authoritative account of a civilization is essential to understanding the ancient world and our own.

Unearthing the Bible: 101 Archaeological Discoveries That Bring the Bible to Life

Kennedy, Titus
Harvest House Publishers
Jun 2, 2020
Unearthing the Bible: 101 Archaeological Discoveries That Bring the Bible to Life Cover
Unearthing the Bible: 101 Archaeological Discoveries That Bring the Bible to Life

Unearthing the Bible: 101 Archaeological Discoveries That Bring the Bible to Life is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in biblical studies. Dr. Titus M. Kennedy presents 101 objects that provide compelling evidence for the historical accuracy of the Scriptures. From the earliest tablets of creation to artifacts connected with the life and resurrection of Jesus, this book reinforces the reliability of the biblical narratives and provides cultural insights into the ancient world. The photographs and detailed descriptions make it easy for readers to examine each piece of evidence for themselves. Overall, Unearthing the Bible is an excellent reference book that offers a unique perspective on the historical accuracy of the Bible.

#TOP 5

The Lost Tomb: And Other Real-Life Stories of Bones, Burials, and Murder

Preston, Douglas
Grann, David
Dec 5, 2023
The Lost Tomb: And Other Real-Life Stories of Bones, Burials, and Murder Cover
The Lost Tomb: And Other Real-Life Stories of Bones, Burials, and Murder

The Lost Tomb by Douglas Preston is a collection of thrilling true stories about bones, burials, and murder. As a journalist and explorer, Preston takes readers on a journey to some of the world's most mysterious and fascinating places, including Egypt's Valley of the Kings and the booby-trapped Money Pit on Oak Island. The book also features stories about lost tombs, buried treasure, and enigmatic murders. The Lost Tomb is an astonishing and compelling read that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in expeditions and discoveries, world history, and true crime.

1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed: Revised and Updated (Turning Points in Ancient History, 6)

Cline, Eric H.
Princeton University Press
Feb 2, 2021
1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed: Revised and Updated (Turning Points in Ancient History, 6) Cover
1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed: Revised and Updated (Turning Points in Ancient History, 6)

"1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed: Revised and Updated" by Eric Cline is a fascinating read that sheds new light on the collapse of the Late Bronze Age civilizations. Cline argues that the collapse was not caused by a single factor, but rather by multiple interconnected failures such as invasion, earthquakes, drought, and the cutting of international trade routes. He brings to life the vibrant multicultural world of these great civilizations and shows that their interdependence ultimately hastened their dramatic collapse. This book is a compelling combination of narrative and the latest scholarship, making it a must-read for anyone interested in ancient history."

The Lost City of the Monkey God: A True Story

Preston, Douglas
Grand Central Publishing
Sep 5, 2017
The Lost City of the Monkey God: A True Story Cover
The Lost City of the Monkey God: A True Story

The Lost City of the Monkey God is an enthralling true story by Douglas Preston, taking readers on an unforgettable adventure deep into the Honduran rainforest. The book follows the discovery of a lost civilization, known as the White City or the Lost City of the Monkey God. The author, along with a team of scientists, uncovers the city's secrets, battling the treacherous terrain and deadly diseases. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, adventure, and exploration. The Lost City of the Monkey God is a thrilling and informative book that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

The Talent Code: Greatness isn't born. It's grown

Coyle, Daniel
Random House Business
Oct 15, 2020
The Talent Code: Greatness isn't born. It's grown Cover
The Talent Code: Greatness isn't born. It's grown

The Talent Code by Daniel Coyle is an eye-opening book that dispels the myth that talent is something one is born with. The author uses research from various fields to show how anyone can develop their abilities through deliberate practice and focused training. Coyle examines how the brain works and how it can be rewired to enhance performance. He also discusses the importance of effective teaching methods and how they can make a significant difference. Overall, The Talent Code is an inspiring and informative read that highlights the power of hard work and dedication in achieving success.

Treasures of Egypt: A Legacy in Photographs From the Pyramids to Cleopatra

National Geographic
Oct 18, 2022
Treasures of Egypt: A Legacy in Photographs From the Pyramids to Cleopatra Cover
Treasures of Egypt: A Legacy in Photographs From the Pyramids to Cleopatra

Treasures of Egypt: A Legacy in Photographs From the Pyramids to Cleopatra is a breathtaking volume that celebrates the vibrant beauty and rich cultural heritage of Egypt on the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tut's tomb. This magnificent book portrays Egypt's most remarkable achievements, viewed through decades of discovery chronicled in National Geographic magazine. Filled with vivid photographs, revealing time lines, and profiles of major explorers in the field, this exquisite book will inform and inspire. A must-read for anyone who loves history or photography.

The Scythian Empire: Central Eurasia and the Birth of the Classical Age from Persia to China

Beckwith, Christopher I.
Jan 17, 2023
The Scythian Empire: Central Eurasia and the Birth of the Classical Age from Persia to China Cover
The Scythian Empire: Central Eurasia and the Birth of the Classical Age from Persia to China

The Scythian Empire by Christopher I. Beckwith is an engaging history book that sheds light on a forgotten empire that transformed the ancient world. The book tells the story of the Scythian warriors who conquered and unified most of the vast Eurasian continent, creating an innovative empire that would give birth to the age of philosophy and the Classical age across the ancient world. The author presents a major new history of a fascinating but often forgotten empire that changed the course of history. Highly recommended for all students of Central Asia history books.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do archaeologists get paid well?

In addition, they earn an average bonus of $2,366. ... An entry level archaeologist (1-3 years of experience) earns an average salary of $66,975. On the other end, a senior level archaeologist (8+ years of experience) earns an average salary of $116,346.

2. What should I study to become an archaeologist?

Subjects such as History, Anthropology, and Sociology, etc. build a solid foundation for a career in archaeology. A bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology or History, and a master's degree in Archaeology and Historical Studies is required to qualify and work as an Archaeologist.

3. Is an Archaeology degree worth it?

IMO, Anthropology (the Bachelor's degree most archaeologists in the U.S. get) is totally worth it. Anthropology offers broad training that is useful for a wide variety of jobs; an undergrad specialization in archaeology is useful for only one job, that of an archaeological field technician.

4. Is it hard to be an archaeologist?

Being an archaeologist isn't easy. No career path is. There is no painless pathway you can take to success. Being a cultural resource management archaeologist is a personal choice.

Editor's Notes

During our archaeology book research, we found 1,200+ archaeology book products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 36,694 customer reviews through our big data system to write the archaeology books list. We found that most customers choose archaeology books with an average price of $20.30.

Written by
Wilson Cook Avatar

Wilson Cook is a talented writer who has an MFA in creative writing from Williams College and has published more than 50 books acquired by hundreds of thousands of people from various countries by now. He is an inveterate reading lover as he has read a vast amount of books since childhood.