Public outreach and education

Inrap reaches out to the public in many different contexts: archaeological sites and research centres, partner locations and schools in the framework of artistic and cultural education projects.

Inrap realizes exhibits in public spaces and intervenes in the context of “Archaeological Villages”.

Inrap realizes more than 1000 projects per year throughout France and its overseas territories, including site visits, presentations, exhibits, stands, etc.

“DISCOVERY-DAYS”

The presence of Inrap at nearly 2000 sites per year (diagnostic operations and excavations) provides valuable opportunities to inform the public about archaeology, including its aims, methods, conditions, etc.

The “Discovery Days” begin with the distribution of visit-brochures that present the results obtained thus far. The visit may then be accompanied by activities inviting young visitors, for example, to learn more about the contents of an exhibit and diverse prehistoric techniques (fire starting, flint knapping, pottery making, etc.).

At its archaeological research centres, Inrap agents present the different phases of study that follow a field excavation, thus providing direct “backstage” access to archaeological research and science “at work”.

MAJOR EVENTS

Inrap participates in many national cultural and scientific events (Fête de la Science, Journées européennes du Patrimoine), as well as major regional events.

Its involvement takes many forms: stands presenting the different fields of archaeology, “Discovery Days” at archaeological sites or archaeological research centres, presentations, etc.

Each year, Inrap also hosts an international colloquium open to all, in partnership with cultural and scientific institutions.

FRENCH NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGY DAYS

Since 2010, Inrap has organized the French National Archaeology Days under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture and Communication. The aim of this event is to raise public awareness of the multiple facets of archaeology: its aims, challenges, disciplines, professions, methods, etc.

With support from the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Research, the French National Archaeology Days rely on all the actors in the archaeological network: in addition to Inrap and its eight interregional directorates, this includes museums, sites, universities, the CNRS, laboratories, Regional Archaeology Services (Drac), local archaeology and/or heritage services, developers, restorers, etc. In each region, all are invited to propose their projects, which may take the form of “Archaeological Villages”, “Discovery Days” at excavation sites, exceptional visits to archaeological research centres, public presentations, exhibits-presentations, workshops, games, etc.

The French National Archaeology Days take place over three days, with Friday being reserved for school groups.