The aim of this research is to understand what the effect of archaeological reconstructions (specifically iron age farmsteads) is (or has been) on both the scientific and public relations side of...Show moreThe aim of this research is to understand what the effect of archaeological reconstructions (specifically iron age farmsteads) is (or has been) on both the scientific and public relations side of archaeology and how these reconstructions can be used in the future. The main reason for this research is the implementation of the Faro agreement in the near future, which aims to include the public deeper into the archaeological research. To achieve this, I have studied 11 reconstructions in the Netherlands and 6 more in North-Western Europe. The reconstructions are all based on archaeological data, such as house plans and findings in the vicinity of these house plans. This study shows that multiple reasons for reconstruction exist, ranging from scientific questioning (usually as a part of an archaeological experiment) to nationalistic tendencies. Most reconstructions started as an archaeological experimental project, but have evolved overtime to serve different purposes. The different purposes range from archaeological education and public outreach to the protection of in situ archaeology at archaeological sites that experience a high influx of tourism. In the Netherlands reconstructions can be found in open air museums, parks and urban area’s. The reconstructions serve different purposes in the Netherlands, being a museum exhibit, a group location or a landscape element. The location and usage of the reconstructions is determined by the goal the builders had in mind. Usually reconstructions made for museums are build specifically for the purpose of visiting the reconstruction, making it durable and accessible for larger groups. This means that the reconstructions face concessions in construction, such as the use of bolts in the construction and foundations reenforced with concrete. The different purposes impact the construction of the reconstructions. A reconstruction that works mostly as a group location or landscape element should meet different demands then an archaeological experiment with scientific aims, which tries to limit the concessions. The upcoming implantation of the Faro agreement requires changes in perspective regarding the reconstructions and usage of this reconstructions. The reconstructions allow for public outreach and should be incorporated into the way the public experience archaeological research. The reconstructions are way to show what archaeologist do, and by combining them with events or life experiments it allows the public to get acquainted with archaeology and the past. This however does require extra steps to show not just the result of the research, but also allow the public to interact with the research itself. Steps in that direction have been taken, but at this point it is not enough. Allowing the interested public to join in experiments, fieldwork opportunities and exhibitions based around the archaeological research with the reconstructions in the centre could make the reconstructions relevant in the changing field of archaeology.Show less
