EXARC at the Experimental Archaeology Days 2026 at Leiden University
On 23–24 April 2026, Leiden University (the Netherlands) hosted the “Experimental Archaeology Days 2026”, a series of events dedicated to bringing experimental archaeology to campus.
Organised by RAAP, W.E.A.L. Leiden, and the association L.A.S. Terra, the programme combined practical workshops with academic discussion, offering participants the opportunity to engage directly with a wide range of experimental archaeology practices.
The first day focused on hands-on activities, including flint knapping, bone working, fibre processing, brewing, and blacksmithing. On the second day, a symposium explored different aspects of experimental archaeology, bringing together students, professionals, and enthusiasts interested in the field.
EXARC also took part in the symposium. Federico Cappadona, EXARC communications manager, represented the association with a presentation introducing the EXARC network, its main open-access resources, and the ways the association can support students and professionals in the field of experimental archaeology.
The presentation discussed EXARC’s role in connecting researchers and practitioners internationally, providing educational materials, publications, and opportunities for collaboration and professional development.
The event offered an excellent opportunity to strengthen connections between academic institutions, archaeological organisations, and the wider experimental archaeology community, while also showcasing the growing interest in hands-on and public-oriented approaches to archaeology.
