Open day archaeological excavation IJsseldijk on 17 June
On Wednesday 17 June 2026, Apeldoorn Council is organising an open day at an archaeological excavation site on the IJsseldijk. Everyone is welcome to come and learn more about the remarkable finds in the area between the A1, A50 and the Apeldoorn–Zutphen railway line. The open day will take place from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm.
The excavation is being carried out as part of the De Maten high-voltage project and the development of Ecofactorij II. Both projects are collaborating on this. Previous investigations have indicated that there may be significant archaeological remains in the ground. For this reason, archaeologists are examining the area first, before work continues.
Notable finds in the area
The area around the IJsseldijk has a long history. Archaeologists have previously found Stone Age artefacts here. This shows that hunters and gatherers were already living and working in this area thousands of years ago.
A remarkable discovery has also been made: a so-called post hole circle. This is a circle of post holes in the ground. Archaeologists believe these holes date back to the Bronze Age and may be part of an ancient burial mound. Burial mounds were once used as burial sites for important individuals or families.
That is striking, as burial mounds were not actually expected in this low-lying area. The new excavation should shed more light on the history and significance of this site.
Join the archaeologists
During the open day, visitors can see how archaeological research is carried out. Archaeologists will talk about the excavation and share the initial findings. Visitors start at the Veluwe Archaeology Hub, where they can learn all about local archaeology, the Stone Age and burial mounds. Visitors can also get hands-on by building or excavating a mini burial mound. Afterwards, visitors will walk with a guide to the edge of the excavation site.
Practical information
The open day will take place on Wednesday 17 June 2026 from 1 pm to 3 pm at IJsseldijk 82, Klarenbeek.
More information
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