Archaeology

Overview

Physical remains comprise a central part of the archaeological research material. Archaeology also deals with remains from historical time, for example through urban excavations, as well as material from our time.

Traditionally the research pursued at the University of Gothenburg has contained elements of critical theory and social criticism. In the last few years the social role of archaeology has become more important, in relation to both the historical perspective and cultural heritage management. Gender research also has an important role.

Features

Collaboration with museums in the west of Sweden (especially the City Museum of Gothenburg and the county museums in Halmstad, Uddevalla, Vänersborg, and Skara) and with the Mölndal office of the Central Board of National Antiquities is of special importance.

An annual symposium, where papers are presented about the activities of the previous year, is hosted by the Department for all the archaeologists in the region and has become a permanent fixture in January.

In the past few years we have collaborated with other departments in the development of several major research projects regionally, nationally, and internationally. Thanks to external financing of projects we have an active research team including many externally financed research positions.