Students from Waidhofen an der Ybbs Explore Celtic Life at Mitterkirchen Open-Air Museum

The second-year classes of the Sports Middle School in Waidhofen an der Ybbs recently embarked on an educational excursion to the Mitterkirchen Open-Air Museum, an institution renowned for its immersive presentation of ancient Celtic culture. The visit formed part of the students' curriculum in history, offering a unique opportunity to experience the daily life and traditions of the Celts as they existed nearly 2,700 years ago.

During the excursion, students toured various reconstructed structures within the museum grounds. These included authentic replicas of Celtic dwellings, workshops, and community spaces meticulously modeled after archaeological findings. Each area provided insight into the architectural methods and living conditions prevalent among the Celtic communities of the Iron Age.

The museum's exhibitions allowed the students to observe artifacts and objects used in everyday life by the Celts. Items such as pottery, tools, and clothing were on display, illustrating the craftsmanship and resourcefulness of the era. The exhibits also shed light on social organization, trade, and the role of different members within Celtic society.

Beyond static displays, the museum offered interactive experiences designed to deepen understanding of ancient practices. Students engaged in hands-on activities, which included demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills such as pottery making, weaving, and metallurgy. These workshops provided practical insights into the labor-intensive methods used before modern technology.

Educational guides accompanied the group throughout the museum, providing contextual background and explaining the significance of various sites and artifacts. The guides discussed the historical context of the Celts in Central Europe, their cultural contributions, and their interactions with neighboring peoples. This approach helped bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and real-world historical environments.

The excursion aimed to complement the classroom-based curriculum by enabling students to connect theoretical knowledge with tangible examples. Observing reconstructed living environments and participating in traditional activities fostered a deeper appreciation for the complexity and innovation present in ancient societies.

Teachers from the Sports Middle School highlighted the value of experiential learning in history education. By engaging directly with historical reconstructions and artifacts, students were able to contextualize the information learned in class, improving retention and sparking curiosity about European prehistory.

Overall, the visit to the Mitterkirchen Open-Air Museum served as a dynamic educational experience, offering students a comprehensive understanding of Celtic life and culture. The excursion not only enhanced historical knowledge but also encouraged students to develop a broader perspective on cultural heritage and the evolution of society over millennia.