EUROPEAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE PRIZE 2024

Individual – Winner: Claus von Carnap-Bornheim

Archaeology is fundamental to the European idea and transnational work and cooperation is a proof of it. For his commitment to research and cooperation in the Baltic and Central Europe; For his relentless work to protect and curate archaeological heritage at many levels, including a full process from the initial research to the World Heritage declaration of the Haithabu site. For his active participation in numerous committees and boards that helped shape archaeological research and heritage in the region; and for the general impact of his work for the discipline and society, already distinguished in several countries, we recognise Prof. Claus von Carnap-Bornheim.

Individual – Honorary Mention: Amal Al Kassem

Times of war and unrest are always tragic, and beyond live, they have a strong impact in archaeological heritage. For over ten years this has been the situation in Syria. Therefore, for her involvement in the documentation of damages and looting in archaeological sites and museums during the conflict. For her work in building community awareness and collaboration in the documentation and protection processes. For her commitment to make visible the impact of the conflict collaborating with many European colleagues; and for her contribution to the management of a post-conflict Syrian archaeology, we recognise Dr. Amal Al Kassem.

Individual – Honorary Mention: Pavel Vařeka

From a successful archaeological career, and the commitment to future generations establishing a new department of archaeology in the University of West Bohemia, this scholar had a pivotal role in shaping Czech medieval and post-medieval archaeology. For his role pioneering community archaeology in the country, bringing attention to fundamental issues for contemporary central Europe. For his contribution to the development of an archaeology of Communism and the Cold War; and for the reparation the historical identity of Roma and Sinti communities in the Czech Republic from archaeology, we want to recognise Prof. Pavel Vařeka.



photo by Damiano Rosa

Institutional – Winner: Geoportale Nazionale per l'Archeologia/The National Geoportal for Archaeology

Archaeological Heritage in the Mediterranean is a challenge in many senses. The large number of sites and artefacts documented result in even larger amounts of data that might become useless without a proper curation. With complex management models that involve different administrations and stakeholders, the challenge becomes greater. For its commitment to make archaeological data FAIR (findable, available, interoperable and reusable) with open-source tools. For its impact in the engagement of users, at many levels; and for its contribution to the improvement of archaeological heritage protection and management, we recognise the National Geoportal for Archaeology (GNA).

Institutional – Honorary Mention: Must Farm Team/Cambridge Archaeological Unit

After two decades of systematic archaeological research, this project has set an example for many issues about the management of archaeological heritage. From excavation to dissemination, its open and collaborative approach made an exceptional site even more exceptional. For its commitment to collaborative research, involving over 30 institutions across Europe. For its investment in public engagement, since the first experiences of “excavation as performance” with the close media focus on the project to the latest activities, exhibitions and resources, open to everyone; and for its impact to improve the protection and management of Wetland Archaeology, we want to recognise The Must Farm Project.


photo by Damiano Rosa