Revival of traditions...

A.G. Abaidulova, N.A. Petrova (Department of Publishing and Exhibitions, the St. Petersburg Division of the Archives of the Russian Academy of Sciences)

Regular Russian Archaeological Congresses introduced by Count A.S.Uvarov, founder of the Moscow Archaeological Association, became a highlight in the history of development of this "science about antiquities". The Congresses were held in various Russian cities once every three years. Agendas and major topics for discussion focused on the history and archaeology of the region where the Congress took place.

The Congresses were organized by the Moscow Archaeological Association, particularly by the Preparatory Committee that worked during the periods between meetings. The Committee’s major task was to select topics for study and discussion in various areas of archaeology. In response to the stated tasks, scholars did their research, wrote reports and made presentations.

Archaeological Congresses were popular not only with scholars and scientists, but also with the public at large as they generated popular interest in the history of the country. Prominent public leaders, representatives of provincial governments and members of the royal family were among patrons of Archaeological Congresses.

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