Institute of Archaeology ZRC SAZU – Institutional Excellence Profile
The Institute of Archaeology ZRC SAZU is a modern interdisciplinary research organisation specialising in the archaeological study of the southeastern Alpine and pre-Alpine region. The institute combines archaeological research with laboratory analyses, geoscientific methods and advanced digital technologies. We actively participate in Horizon Europe projects, collaborate as a partner institution in ERC-funded initiatives, and contribute to several COST Actions, demonstrating strong international engagement and institutional capacity within the European Research Area.
Our expertise covers the entire archaeological sequence of the region:
- Palaeolithic & Mesolithic – mobility patterns, raw material procurement, lithic technologies;
- Neolithic & Copper Age – cultures of wetland environments, spatial organization of settlements, formation of early settlement structures;
- Bronze & Iron Age – social organisation, funerary traditions, regional connectivity;
- Roman Period – administrative and communication structures, epigraphy, military presence, everyday life;
- Late Antiquity & Early Middle Ages – settlement transformation, early Christian communities, identity formation, mortuary practices.
We apply state-of-the-art methodologies such as archaeobotanical and archaeozoological analyses, palynological studies, LiDAR-based remote sensing, GIS spatial modelling, 3D digital documentation, and geophysical prospection, enabling high-resolution insights into settlement systems, spatial dynamics and cultural processes.
Ljubljansko barje (photo: M. Andrič)
A key area of expertise is the investigation of the prehistoric pile-dwelling heritage of the Ljubljansko barje (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We study settlement patterns, material culture and the spatial development of prehistoric communities and situate these findings within a broader spatial and cultural framework using advanced analytical and digital approaches.
The institute also contributes to youth engagement in heritage. Through projects such as CHARYSMA, we develop contemporary approaches that combine archaeological content with digital media, participatory methods and cross-border collaboration, in line with the EU Youth Strategy 2021–2027.
We maintain and develop national archaeological data infrastructures – Arkas, Zbiva and Libera – dedicated to the documentation, long-term accessibility and interoperability of archaeological and cultural heritage data. The institute manages a comprehensive research library and publishes Slovenia’s leading archaeological journal Arheološki vestnik, along with the monograph series Opera Instituti Archaeologici Sloveniae and E-Monographiae.
With its methodological expertise, research infrastructure, digital capacities and long-term participation in international networks, the Institute of Archaeology ZRC SAZU demonstrates strong institutional capability to contribute effectively to European research consortia and to implement Horizon Europe actions.