Protection and popularization of archaeological heritage as an object of activity of a nongovernmental organisation supported by a university – an example of medieval ducal tower in Siedlęcin near Jelenia Góra

Abstract

The tower in Siedlęcin near Jelenia Góra is one of the best-preserved keeps in Central Europe. Since the beginning of the 21st century it has been open to visitors. In 2008 archaeological research of the tower and its surroundings was started, two years later the Association ‘Ducal Tower in Siedlęcin’ was established.The cooperation between Jagiellonian University and the nongovernmental organisation led to the implementation of several projects to protect, and popularize the archaeological heritage. Researchers provided some of the ideas and substantive support, the NGO participated in the conceptual and implementation stages and maintained the effects of the activities (ona year-round basis).The effects of cooperation were substantial (archaeological exhibition and reserve), organisational (heritage trails, camps for volunteers) and educational (guidebooks dedicated to the children). Activities developed in Siedlęcin during the recent years allowed creating a complete product (on a scale achievable under those conditions), which as a ‘good practice’ was implemented at another site (Wleń castle).The activities carried out around the keep in Siedlęcin by the Institute of Archaeology of the Jagiellonian University and the Association ‘Ducal Tower in Siedlęcin’ were mutually beneficial and additionally contributed to strengthening the local community and helped achieve local self-government tasks in the field of heritage protection.