First archaeological excavations at Vairogmiests carried out by volunteers
This summer, the first archaeological excavations took place in Bauskas Pilskalna Park, on the site of the former Vairogmiests. Volunteers uncovered a 16th-century cemetery and 620 artifacts.
The first archaeological excavations at the former Vairogmiests site in Bauskas Pilskalna Park were conducted this summer entirely by volunteers. Led by archaeologist Andris Tomašūns, the work was initiated after local historians encouraged him, and it was carried out with permission from the National Heritage Board, though the park renovation project only required archaeological supervision.
The volunteers included local historians, Ivo Kapkalns (a member of the search unit "Zvaigzne") from Bauska, Kārlis Sinka from Iecava, Undīne Krūze, a historian from Dobele Castle Museum, and others. They worked twice a week without any payment. The excavations uncovered part of a 16th-century cemetery, believed to be near a church on the Mēmele riverbank.
A total of 620 artifact units were recorded, which will enrich the collection of Bauska Castle Museum. Tomašūns expressed regret that archaeologists were not involved in the park's design from the beginning. He argued the area should have been left untouched with only a historical marker. In June, the public had the chance to see the findings and hear Tomašūns' presentation.
