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History enthusiasts had the chance to explore the work of archaeologists and anthropologists, taste ancient foods, and take part in a prize-winning competition. They could also try grinding grain on stone querns and learn how modern technologies help archaeologists reconstruct the distant past.

The nationwide event in Pilsen took place across three locations – at the main building of the West Bohemian Museum in Pilsen, the Ethnographic Museum of Pilsen Region, and the Faculty of Arts of the University of West Bohemia (FA UWB). At the faculty, visitors could quite literally touch history: they tried hands-on archaeological and anthropological activities, listened to the sounds of the past, and discovered how advanced scientific methods reveal what life was like thousands of years ago. “People were surprised to learn how precisely we can determine information about health, lifestyle, and even everyday habits of prehistoric communities from skeletal remains,” said Anna Pankowská from the Department of Anthropology at FA UWB.

“Our goal was to bring archaeology closer to the public in an engaging way — to let people see inside our laboratories and show that archaeology today is a multidisciplinary science making extensive use of modern technology,” added Atilla Vatansever from the Department of Archaeology at FA UWB, the main coordinator of the event.

The programme also included a competition connecting all three locations. “The interest was huge. Many families with children visited all the sites, collected stamps, and submitted their competition booklets. For us, that’s a clear sign that events like this really make sense,” Vatansever added.

At the atrium of the Ethnographic Museum of the Pilsen Region, part of the West Bohemian Museum, the air was filled with the aromas of Renaissance and Baroque cuisine prepared by the historical reenactment group Renegáti, who cooked dishes based on authentic historical recipes. Visitors could taste wheat flatbreads, homemade cheese, and fruit and vegetable stews with wine.

“It’s great that we’re able to connect the academic and museum worlds. Each institution brings its own experience and approach to presenting the past — together, we create a space where education, science, and experience meet in one,” concluded Markéta Sochorová from the West Bohemian Museum in Pilsen, where visitors could see both authentic finds and replicas of artefacts.