55 places buzzing with action from August 1 to 31, 2013
Montréal, September 15, 2013 – From August 1 to 31, 2013, archaeology held the spotlight in 55 places throughout 13 regions of Québec and in Ottawa. For its ninth edition, Archaeology Month welcomed nearly 50 000 people to over 100 tours, talks, archaeological digs and entertaining activities, many of which were free, in the company of 40 archaeologists and specialists. Never in the history of Archaeology Month had so many activities been prepared for visitors. Participating sites outdid themselves in creating novel, meaningful and appealing activities designed to make the public more aware of the importance of archaeology and the need to safeguard it. And the public response was enthusiastic!
These accessible, authentic activities reflected the diversity and richness of our heritage. They bore the stamp of Archéo-Québec, which pilots Archaeology Month, and were marked by the quality and professionalism of the participating places. These organizations, devoted to outreach, conservation and research, include museums, national historic sites, archaeological sites and First Nations organizations, as well as public institutions like government departments, municipalities and MRCs, not to mention historical societies and a unique establishment, the archaeology-themed Auberge Saint-Antoine.
The Archéo-Québec Network is proud of the success of its ninth edition in bringing together various cultural players in the archaeological heritage field, as well as mobilizing an ever-growing public. This public, which seems to be renewed each year (84 %), included many families (a third of the visits). A majority of visitors said that they were satisfied (18 %) or very satisfied (81 %) with the activities offered, and many (62 %) planned to take part in a second activity. It is clear that Archaeology Month makes an increasing number of Quebeckers, including families, more aware of the archaeology around them. This success is shared by the Archéo-Québec Network and all the participating places. The Network wishes them as much inspiration and success in 2014 for the tenth edition of Archaeology Month!
Archaeology Month is made possible through the collaboration of a major partner, the Ministère de la Culture et des Communications and with the support of the Ministère du Tourisme. The Archéo-Québec Network wishes to thank its partners, as well as its enthusiastic spokesperson, Jici Lauzon.
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Source: Monique Tairraz & Cie for Archéo-Québec – 514 931-4219
Press relations: Rugicomm – 514 759-0494