Since 2010, the French Ministry of Culture has been entrusting the National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP) with the co-ordination and promotion of National Archaeology Days (JNA).

During these Archaeology Days, all those involved in archaeology are mobilized to introduce the public to the treasures of their national heritage and the secrets of the profession. Archaeological excavation operators, research organizations, universities, museums and archaeological sites, laboratories, associations, archives and local authorities are all encouraged to organize innovative, original and interactive activities for the public.

The JNA expanded to Europe in 2019. For the first time, seventeen countries participated.

In 2020, France’s National Archaeology Days became the European Archaeology Days.

In light of the COVID-19 epidemic , the 11th edition of the European Archaeology Days (EAD) did not take place in its traditional form. Nevertheless, to celebrate archaeology with all publics, Inrap launched, under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, the event #Archeorama. In addition to events with the public when the health situation permitted, the #archeorama event opened up the possibility of creating digital events and enhancing online resources: live meetings of archaeologists on social networks, publication of new videos, live lectures, virtual tours of exhibitions, 3D modelling of archaeological objects and sites, etc.

With more than 1,400 initiatives in Europe and 26 European countries participating, the 2021 European Archaeological Days were a tremendous success! Europe’s countries came out in full force for this year’s event, once again, offering more than 830 initiatives, signing the success of these days. More than 570 events took place all over France: excavation sites exceptionally opened to the public, educational and fun activities, archaeology villages, meetings with researchers, visits to laboratories, exhibitions, screenings… Throughout the three days, the public had the opportunity to take in an abundant program offered by all those who make archaeology today.

In 2022, Archaeology Days are 17, 18 and 19 June ,  3 days of live archaeology. Everywhere at home and on journees-archeologie.fr #JArchéo. The event is organized by the National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research.