Archeologische Vereniging Philips van Horne celebrates 50 years

The Archeological Association Philips van Horne is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The organization originated in 1976 as the Philips van Horne Archaeology Working Group, which was led for thirty years by history teacher Gerrit Hasendonckx. Hasendonckx previously received the Silver Anemone from the Bernard Cultuurfonds, presented by Queen Beatrix, for his dedication to sharing archaeological passion with young people.

Historically, the working group collaborated on excavations with the Flemish Institute for Immovable Heritage and conducted excavations in Luxembourg. In 2008, the group transitioned into an independent association to continue its mission of making archaeology accessible to all ages.

The jubilee will be celebrated on October 10 in Weert with an afternoon congress, a dinner buffet, and a celebration. The program, chaired by Remco Hoogendijk, will feature Belgian archaeologists Marnix Pieters and Marleen Martens, and will reflect on the association's archaeological and social history.