The Confederation of Archaeologists: excavations in Lombardy carried out by volunteer associations: illegal and detrimental to workers

The Lombard branch of the Italian Confederation of Archaeologists reports that in Lombardy there are cases of excavation activities carried out by volunteers, and which, in light of the recent legislation that establishes the criteria necessary to define oneself as an “archaeologist,” would be illegal according to the Confederation. We are talking, in this case, about Ministerial Decree 244/2019 and Law 110/2014, which regulate the figure of the archaeologist. Specifically, according to dm 244, in order to be registered in the lists of archaeologists, it is required to possess educational qualifications and professional experience: in detail, we speak of a bachelor’s degree (four-year degree in literature or cultural heritage or conservation of cultural heritage, with an archaeological focus, or a specialist degree in archaeology, including interclass), or even an advanced diploma and specialization in archaeology (or two years of post-lauream training), or attainment of a doctorate in archaeological disciplines, with in addition at least twelve months (even non-continuous) of documented experience .

The Confederation denounces that in Gambara (Brescia), “a number of tombs have come to light,” Nicolò Donati, regional president of the Lombardy branch of the Italian Confederation of Archaeologists, points out, “excavated by volunteers from the association Klousios - Centro studi e ricerche basso Chiese di Casalmoro (Mantua) who allegedly operated, under the scientific direction of the Archaeological Superintendence, free of charge and mainly on weekends with personnel lacking the training requirements provided by law.”

Donati wonders how it was possible “to authorize an archaeological excavation carried out without proper site management and with the employment of personnel not in possession of the requirements, as provided for by the regulations,” and also points out that the one in Gambara does not seem to be the only case in Lombardy of archaeological excavations employing volunteers (“albeit trained,” Donati stresses), instead of qualified professionals. On the contrary, “it seems to be a well-established fact,” adds Donati, "if even the Archaeological Group of Montichiari can write on its website that it organizes ’in collaboration with the Archaeological Superintendence of Lombardy field interventions destined for the most part to the recovery of archaeological situations in immediate danger of preservation’ open ’to all those who wish to practice archaeology’ and for which ’no particular qualification is required.’ This is an unacceptable confusion of roles, Donati explains: ’the professional training and experience that professional archaeologists guarantee should in no way be confused with the voluntary contribution of enthusiasts.’

Passion for archaeological heritage and local history on the part of private individuals, Donati concludes, “can be a fundamental contribution to their valorization, but it cannot in any way replace the activity of professionals who make their living from this work, both from a point of view of the protection of cultural heritage and respect for the work of others. Different realities, such as the Archaeological Museums in the territory, represent a natural bridge that connects institutions and society, culture and territory, and are therefore configured as the ideal place to put one’s personal propensities at the service of the community without harming the cultural heritage and professionalism of archaeologists.” Finally, the Confederation lets it be known that the whole thing has already been reported to the relevant authorities.

Pictured: lower Brescia near the Gambara River. Ph. Credit

The Confederation of Archaeologists: excavations in Lombardy carried out by volunteer associations: illegal and detrimental to workers

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