Medical Archaeological Festival in Biskupin (photos)
Mysterious shamans, medieval hospitallers, herbalists and early pharmacists spent centuries dealing with illnesses and ailments affecting humankind. The secrets of their work can be explored during the 31st Archaeological Festival at the Marshal’s Archaeological Museum in Biskupin. Poland’s best-known historical event of its kind will continue until Wednesday (16 September). Festival programme.
– The crowds of visitors who come to the Biskupin festival every year are the best proof that this is a truly exceptional event. Thanks to the commitment and creativity of the organisers, traces of the past come alive again here, becoming tangible and effectively encouraging both younger and older visitors to discover the world of history. I invite everyone to Biskupin for new and fascinating experiences – says Marshal Piotr Całbecki.
“Archeomedicus – from Magic to Medicine” is the theme of the 31st edition of the Archaeological Festival. Visitors can explore themed zones featuring interesting stands, demonstrations and lectures:
The stage programme will feature performances by Huskarl and Javaryna, as well as interesting talks and lectures. Visitors will be able to learn how people cared for their bodies in antiquity, how illnesses were treated in prehistoric times and what people ate in the past.
The Biskupin festival also offers engaging workshops in a variety of thematic zones. Visitors can take part in:
- a botanical laboratory
- craft workshops
- a graphic arts studio
- sword and sabre workshops
One of the highlights of previous festivals was the combat display by early medieval warriors, and this year will be no different. Warriors from the historical re-enactment group “Chmurnicy – Warriors of the Łekno Stronghold” will once again cross swords.
Archaeology enthusiasts are invited by our museum to visit the conservation workshop. In these rooms, which are normally closed to visitors, guests will be able to see specialist equipment, talk to conservators and take part in demonstrations.
On the first day of the festival, an exhibition was opened in memory of Wiesław Zajączkowski, the museum’s former director, who died in August. During the most recent session of the regional assembly, he was posthumously awarded the Marshal’s Medal, Unitas Durat Palatinatus Cuiaviano-Pomeraniensis.
The Archaeological Museum in Biskupin is a cultural institution run by the regional government. It is one of the largest archaeological reserves in Europe, covering an area of nearly 40 hectares. The site contains rich traces of settlement dating from the Stone Age to the Early Middle Ages, including the remains of an exceptionally well-preserved fortified settlement dating from the transition between the Bronze and Iron Ages. With support from the regional government, the reserve is steadily implementing projects that enable the reconstruction and historical styling of further structures.
A new pavilion is to be built at the Archaeological Museum in Biskupin. The competition organised by the museum for the architectural concept of the new building was won by PROLOG studio from Wrocław. The project is due to begin in 2025. The budget for preparing the construction design amounts to PLN 2.8 million, while the construction of the building itself is expected to cost PLN 40 million.
Beata Krzemińska
Spokesperson for the Marshal’s Office
11 September 2026
Last updated: 15 September 2026
