CAORLE, Italy – The National Archaeological Museum of the Sea in Caorle is offering a unique weekend experience, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore the technologies of our ancestors. Two workshops, scheduled for March 20th and 21st, 2026, will provide hands-on opportunities to learn about prehistoric life, from crafting ancient tools to mastering the art of archery.
The first event, taking place on Friday, March 20th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM local time (UTC+2), is a workshop titled “Sperimentiamo l’archeologia: costruiamo una freccia preistorica” – “Let’s Experiment with Archaeology: Building a Prehistoric Arrow.” This is part of a series of four free workshops designed for adults, aiming to provide a practical understanding of prehistoric technologies. Participants will have the chance to construct a prehistoric arrow, utilizing techniques inspired by those employed by ancient communities. It’s more than just a crafting exercise; it’s a journey to understand the skills, knowledge, and ingenuity required for survival in bygone eras.
The museum emphasizes that this workshop isn’t simply about manual dexterity. It’s designed to foster an appreciation for the resourcefulness of early humans and the challenges they faced. Led by experienced instructors, the session will encourage reflection on the relationship between humans and their environment, the evolution of tools, and the importance of hunting in prehistoric societies. Space is limited to 15 participants to ensure quality instruction and individualized support, and advance booking is required.
For younger enthusiasts, Saturday, March 21st will host “Arcieri del passato: tiro con l’arco storico” – “Archers of the Past: Historical Archery.” Two sessions are available, at 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM local time (UTC+2), offering children and teenagers the opportunity to experience the world of ancient hunting through a practical archery session. In a safe and supervised environment, participants will learn the fundamentals of archery, gaining insight into the vital role these skills played in the daily lives of ancient communities.
The museum’s approach to this workshop is centered on experiential learning. Through play and experimentation, the session aims to stimulate curiosity, coordination, and an interest in history, transforming education into an engaging and memorable experience. Like the adult workshop, participation is free, but advance registration is mandatory. The museum is located in Caorle, a coastal town in the Veneto region of Italy, known for its rich history and archaeological sites.
Interested individuals can uncover more information and make reservations by contacting the museum at drm-ven.museocaorle@cultura.gov.it or by calling +39 0421 83149 or +39 379 1805649. The museum is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM, and can be opened upon request at other times.
Beyond these specific workshops, visitors to the National Archaeological Museum of the Sea can also explore the “La grotta del suono – 35.000 anni di note” (The Cave of Sound – 35,000 Years of Notes) experiential sound installation, included with museum admission. This installation offers a unique auditory journey through the sounds of the past, with timed entries every 30 minutes for groups of up to 15 people.
The museum also offers guided tours in Italian on Sundays, March 15th, 22nd, and 29th at 4:00 PM, included in the price of admission. On March 8th, the museum will offer free admission to all women in celebration of International Women’s Day. Additional workshops are scheduled throughout March, including sessions on creating ancient Roman perfumes on March 14th and learning leatherworking techniques on March 6th.
These events provide a compelling opportunity to connect with the past in a tangible way, offering a unique blend of education and hands-on experience. The National Archaeological Museum of the Sea is clearly positioning itself as a dynamic cultural hub, offering engaging programs for visitors of all ages.
Looking ahead, the museum will continue its “Sperimentiamo l’archeologia” series with a workshop on building a prehistoric sound-making device, the “rombo sonoro,” on March 27th, and a workshop on working with deer antler on April 3rd. These ongoing initiatives demonstrate a commitment to bringing the past to life for a modern audience.
For those planning a visit, remember that reservations are essential for all workshops. The museum’s contact information and website (https://museiveneto.cultura.gov.it/musei/museo-nazionale-di-archeologia-del-mare) provide further details and booking options.
