Thirty-Two Years of Integrating Archaeology and Heritage Management in Belize: A Brief History of the Belize Valley Archaeological Reconnaissance (BVAR) Project’s Engagement with the Public

Julie A Hoggarth,Claire E Ebert,Tia B Watkins,John P Walden,Rafael A Guerra,Jaime J Awe,Antonio Beardall

doi:10.3390/heritage3030040

Abstract

Since its inception in 1988, the Belize Valley Archaeological Reconnaissance (BVAR) Project has had two major foci, that of cultural heritage management and archaeological research. While research has concentrated on excavation and survey, the heritage management focus of the project has included the preservation of ancient monuments, the integration of archaeology and tourism development, and cultural heritage education. In this paper, we provide a brief overview on the history of scientific investigations by the BVAR Project, highlighting the project’s dual heritage management and research goals. This background offers the basis in which to discuss the successes and challenges of the project’s efforts in cultural heritage management and public engagement, particularly in early conservation efforts, in its training and educational efforts, and its ongoing outreach activity. We emphasize the need to train Belizeans as professional archaeologists and conservators, to serve as the next generation of advocates for Belize’s heritage management. We offer some ideas on how research projects can make significant contributions to heritage education and preservation in the developing world.

Highlights

As archaeology has progressed as a discipline, a variety of archaeological methods and theories have placed an increasing focus on public archaeology that makes archaeological research more inclusive
This has led the project to collaborate with other researchers to develop immersive virtual reality technologies that allow for site exploration and analysis, 360-degree site tours, and self-guided education through smartphone technology at Cahal Pech [174]
Future implementation of this sort of technology can enhance the accessibility of archaeological sites that are not publicly open for tourism, such as Baking Pot which is situated on the government-run Central Farm Agricultural Research Station

Summary

Introduction

As archaeology has progressed as a discipline, a variety of archaeological methods and theories have placed an increasing focus on public archaeology that makes archaeological research more inclusive. Archaeologists recognize that they cannot detach their field programs from efforts to communicate information to the public [1]. This broader focus has identified tensions between different segments of society, with archaeology often being appropriated by the media, public discourse, national identity building, and the conservators of cultural heritage. These developments are clearly identifiable in Maya archaeology, where continuing archaeological research is used for development.

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