The Royal Exhibition Building archaeological dig from above.
Image: Nicole Alley
Source: Museum Victoria
On Saturday 14 November, you can see archaeology at work at the Royal Exhibition Building dig Open Day.
The three-week archaeological dig is the first phase of the World Heritage, World Futures project to install 900,000 litres of rainwater storage beneath the area known as the western forecourt. The dig is recording all remaining traces of the former uses of this land prior to installation of the water tanks, and providing information needed to restoration of the original German Garden in the third and final phase.
At the Open Day, Museum Victoria curators and program staff and archaeologists from La Trobe University and Godden Mackay Logan will be on hand to talk about what they have found and what it means. Visitors can find out more about what's involved in historical archaeology and how the numerous objects are handled once they are excavated.
"The Open Day is a great opportunity to see what's come out of the ground first-hand," said Jen Brook, Program Manager Humanities. "People can come on site and see what's going on behind the hoardings." Access to the site is otherwise restricted since it is a construction zone. Visitors are also invited to share their stories about the Royal Exhibition Building.
The free Open Day runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on 14 November. The World Heritage, World Futures project page and blog have videos, archival images and other background material.