The Second Congress of Polish Archaeology

The aim of the Congress is to establish a sustainable platform for dialogue and cooperation across the entire archaeological community. In the face of rapid technological, organisational and social changes, as well as the challenges associated with the protection of archaeological heritage, the digitisation of resources, climate change and the pressures of urbanisation, it is essential to develop a common position and long-term strategies for action. The rapid development of analytical methods and digital technologies, increasing requirements for data documentation and archiving, investment pressures, threats arising from armed conflicts and the illicit trade in cultural artefacts, as well as the need for effective education and the dissemination of knowledge about heritage – these are just some of the issues that require an in-depth, multilateral debate.

We are keen to ensure that the Congress programme gives special prominence to panel discussions on key issues from the perspective of heritage conservation policy, in which representatives of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage would take part, including the Chief Conservator of Monuments. The participation of Ministry representatives would not only enable the presentation of the state’s current priorities and policy directions, but also provide an opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the problems and proposals put forward by the archaeological community. The Congress could serve as a forum for consultation, resulting in recommendations and conclusions that would be useful in shaping future legal, organisational and financial solutions in the field of archaeological heritage protection.

We place particular emphasis on the diversity of the Congress’s programme and on integrating academic archaeology with conservation, museum and investment practice. For this reason, the programme of the 2nd Congress of Polish Archaeology will include not only traditional academic sessions and plenary lectures, but also discussion panels devoted to the most pressing issues in contemporary archaeology, methodological and educational workshops, demonstrations, popular science talks, as well as exhibitions and activities aimed at the general public. We are keen for the Congress to be not only a gathering of specialists, but also a visible event within the city and the region, contributing to the popularisation of knowledge about archaeology and strengthening public awareness of the importance of cultural heritage. This event will also provide an opportunity to showcase the strong position of Polish archaeology on the international stage and the experiences of researchers conducting projects both in Poland and abroad.

One of the events taking place alongside the Congress will be the open-air exhibition „Atlas of Polish Archaeology”. Its aim is to present contemporary archaeology in Poland in the form of an atlas of sites where archaeological research, museum work, conservation and public outreach activities are carried out.

We will invite all state institutions, academic institutes and private organisations involved in archaeology to take part in the exhibition, so that together we can showcase the scale, appeal and diversity of our discipline. The exhibition aims to give the public an insight into the work of archaeologists by showcasing day-to-day research practices, the sites where research is carried out, and the institutions responsible for the protection and interpretation of archaeological heritage. We also wish to highlight that archaeology is not just about spectacular finds, but above all a network of researchers and institutions that work day in, day out to uncover the past and preserve our shared heritage.

The exhibition „Atlas of Polish Archaeology” will be created especially for the Second Congress of Polish Archaeology, and its official opening will take place at the State Archaeological Museum in Warsaw, to coincide with the opening of the Congress. However, this is a long-term project – the exhibition will be a travelling one and, following the Congress, will be shown in various cities across Poland, particularly in places where institutions employing archaeologists are based, such as museums and research centres.

An integral part of the project will also be the preparation and publication of an album under the same title – *Atlas of Polish Archaeology* – documenting the institutions featured in the exhibition and their activities. This publication will serve as a lasting record of the contemporary state of Polish archaeology, fulfilling scientific, popularising and educational functions.