The new Archaeology Lab PETRI Berlin is built over the foundations of the medieval Latin school on the southern part of Spree Island. This innovative collaboration between the Museum für Vor- und Frühgeschichte (Museum of Prehistory and Early History) of the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin (National Museums in Berlin) and the Berlin Monument Authority, unique in the country, invites visitors to immerse in the fascinating world of archaeology and to discover Berlin’s mostly hidden archaeological heritage.

PETRI Berlin is more than just an exhibition – it is a living space for discovery. In glass-fronted workshops, project rooms and an open storage area visitors gain direct insight into the working world of archaeologists. Instead of taking place behind closed doors, every step of archaeological work – from the discovery of objects in the ground, through restoration, to the storage and exhibition of finds – is made visible and tangible. At the same time significant finds from across Berlin and from the collection of the Museum für Vor- und Frühgeschichte offer glimpses into the lives of people from earlier eras

Exhibition

The exhibition “Discovering Archaeology” can be experienced with all senses through a variety of interactive displays and tactile objects. School classes can take part in specially designed educational programmes that show how exciting and entertaining archaeology can be. These programmes help to build an understanding of archaeological methods and inspire an interest in science and research.

Alongside the exhibition, a wide-ranging programme will offer insights into archaeological processes and ongoing research.