Journal overview

'A significant development... deserves to be immediately recognized as a key journal for the discipline'
Times Higher Education Supplement

Public Archaeology is the only international, peer-reviewed journal to provide an arena for the growing debate surrounding archaeological and heritage issues as they relate to the wider world of politics, ethics, government, social questions, education, management, economics and philosophy. As a result, the journal includes ground-breaking research and insightful analysis on topics ranging from ethnicity, indigenous archaeology and cultural tourism to archaeological policies, public involvement and the antiquities trade.

Key issues covered:


• the sale of unprovenanced and frequently looted antiquities

• the relationship between emerging modern nationalism and the profession of archaeology

• privatization of the profession

• human rights and, in particular, the rights of indigenous populations with respect to their sites and material relics

• representation of archaeology in the media

• the law on portable finds or treasure troves

• archaeologist as an instrument of state power, or catalyst to local resistance to the state


An events diary, reviews of books, conferences and exhibitions, Forum-type exchanges of views and other notes are also published, informing readers about the latest trends, commenting on recent announcements and highlighting what is to come.

Public Archaeology is for all those who wish to take part, keep themselves informed, or build on a keen interest in the field, including: archaeologists, cultural historians, cultural economists, heritage managers, specialist journalists, political commentators, leisure and tourist operators, private consultancies, national and international lawyers and conservationists as well as those responsible for university courses in museum studies, heritage management, politics, anthropology and law.

Authors can choose to publish gold open access in this journal.

Read the Instructions for Authors for information on how to submit your article.

Read full aims and scope

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Open Access
Marino Ficco
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Paul Burtenshaw
Book Review |
Evie Handby
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