The Department of Archaeology operates within the Department of Professional and Museum Affairs of the Archaeological Museum of Istria. It includes the Prehistoric, Ancient, Medieval, Post-Medieval, and Numismatic collections, as well as the Underwater Archaeology Collection. The Department's primary task involves the research, collection, storage, and preservation of museum materials, managing and digitizing documentation, and conducting regular inventory revisions. The rich museum material consists of archaeological artifacts collected during numerous systematic and rescue excavations conducted throughout Istria.
The Department conducts and performs archaeological research: systematic, rescue, and trial excavations, archaeological supervision, and other types of field surveys, such as reconnaissance and reambulation. These activities are carried out throughout the entire Istrian County – both on land and underwater.
The Department also organizes exhibitions, lectures, conferences, and professional gatherings, and participates in scientific and professional events. It is also engaged in scientific research and the preparation of popular, professional, and scientific publications.
Archaeologists within the Department study materials from the prehistoric, ancient, medieval, and post-medieval periods, with a significant portion of their work dedicated to numismatic finds and underwater archaeological discoveries from the Istrian waters. Through their work, they continue a multi-decade tradition of researching the Istrian region while simultaneously developing new approaches to the protection and interpretation of archaeological heritage.
The Department of Archaeology is a key institution for the research, protection, and presentation of Istria's rich heritage, preserving the material traces of the past and making them accessible to current and future generations.
