The department collects and compiles archeological
artifacts from the territory of the former Konin Province and makes
them available to the public. The present collections comprise about
15,000 objects. Apart from numerous prehistoric artifacts, there are
also many interesting objects made of bone and metal.
What
deserves special attention is the collection of exhibits originating
from the culture of funnel-beakers (the Neolithic Period), numerous
artifacts collected from graves characteristic of the Przeworska Culture
cemeteries (the period of the Roman influence), as well as military
objects collected during the excavation works at the site of medieval
fortified settlements. The most interesting of these exhibits are
displayed on a permanent exhibition.
The department carries out its own archeological research including
both surface and excavation work, mainly to preserve artifacts and
objects located in the sites endangered by industrial activity. Since
1967 the department has carried out excavation work in over 80 sites
and surface research in over 7,700 sites representing all prehistoric
periods.
The department archives keep the record of all the data related to
the archeological discoveries in our region. They also collect written
sources providing information which may be useful during archeological
research of medieval fortifications, churches, and towns, or during
the reconstruction of the primeval natural environment of the region.
The department prepares written materials related to its collections
and makes them available for publication. It also holds consultations
concerning diploma papers with colleges and universities.