The CRAF (Centre for Fluvial Archaeological Research) is conducting its annual summer campaign in Han-sur-Lesse, within the bed of the Lesse River, just outside the Han Cave.
This year, the CRAF’s scientific campaign—led by Christophe Delaere and Cécile Ansieau—focuses on preparation and analysis.
While it does not involve new excavations, the site remains a hive of activity.
The campaign, running to 20 August, is dedicated to a major post-excavation mission, an essential stage in any long-term archaeological project.
A spokesman told Together that archaeologists and divers will carry out several technical operations to prepare for future research.
These include cleaning the excavation trench using an airlift (sediment suction device), drilling work, lifting rock blocks from the riverbed in preparation for the 2027 campaign, and conducting topographic surveys.
“These activities represent a crucial phase of the scientific research,” said the spokesman
At the same time, part of the team is working in the laboratory to continue cataloging, cleaning, and studying the numerous artifacts discovered during previous campaigns.
Archaeological research has been conducted annually at Han-sur-Lesse since 1963, particularly within the bed of the Lesse River.
These campaigns have provided a better understanding of the history of the cave and its surrounding environment.
They have revealed traces of human presence dating back more than 10,500 years.
The site is particularly notable for its discoveries from the Late Bronze Age (circa 1100–800 BC), which include numerous weapons, tools, items of personal adornment, and everyday objects. Over the next two weeks, upon leaving the Grotte de Han, the public will be able to get a behind-the-scenes look at an archaeological campaign and observe the technical operations paving the way for future research.
