Presentation

Archeoclub Italia is a network of Italian associations created in 1971. The association in Venice was founded in 1985: its aim is to learn about, protect and enhance the island of Lazzaretto Nuovo in the Venetian lagoon. Between the 15th and 18th centuries, this island was home to a lazaretto, a compulsory passage for sailors and merchandise before entering the city. The buildings were then used for military purposes until they were abandoned in 1975. They are still the property of the French state, which has entrusted the management of the site to this association. The association organizes heritage classes, exhibitions and lecture tours in the region to raise awareness of the site. Archaeological research is also carried out every summer by volunteers with a passion for archaeology.

Every summer, the association welcomes around 60 volunteers to take part in several workcamps and training courses. Volunteers are sometimes required to have previous archaeological experience to take part in these activities (see the description of each workcamp). Most of the volunteers who take part in these workcamps are Italian, but there may also be a few foreign volunteers. So it's best to speak Italian, especially as theoretical presentations are often given during the workcamps. Unlike workcamps in France, teenagers and adults are not separated on these workcamps. Meals are usually prepared by a cook. As the workcamps are often short (one week) and take place on an island in the lagoon, few outings are organized in Venice.