This weekend’s European archaeology festival sees hundreds of events in France
Dig sites usually closed to the public will be opened up, many with tours and workshops
Some live sites will be open to all this weekend
Elnur/Shutterstock
A major cultural event is taking place throughout Europe this weekend, inviting people to engage with local history.
The 16th European Archaeology Days (Journées européennes de l’archéologie) will run from June 13 - 15 across the continent, offering hundreds of events to amateurs and experts alike.
The events aim to provide a glimpse into the world of archaeology, letting people go behind the scenes of research and talk to experts in the field.
France, with its rich history stretching back thousands of years, is one of the main centres of this year’s programme, hosting several activities for both children and adults.
Events include:
Workshops, guided tours, film screenings, exhibitions, and even tasting sessions focusing on gastronomical archaeology.
Live dig sites and research centres usually closed to the public will also be exceptionally open for the weekend.
You can find a full list of activities in France, based on location, age range, and several other criteria, in English on the official website.
Most of the events are free, although you may need to book in advance.
Dozens of archaeological ‘villages’
A major highlight of the weekend is the creation of dozens of archaeological ‘villages’ around France hosting several events.
The villages are located across the country, including in Lyon, Saint-Malo, Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Lillebonne.
A focus of this year’s festival will be the Bronze Age (circa 3200 BC to 800 BC), a period often overlooked but rich in history in France.
Workshops on techniques from the era include weaving, boat-building, metalworking and even cooking. There is also an exhibition on the use and control of fire in the time period.
Are you planning on attending an event near you this weekend? Please let us know via feedback@connexionfrance.com
