Archaeological dig in Zamość’s Great Market

24 March 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

The archaeological dig in Zamość seeks a historic well beneath the Great Market square.

Archaeological dig in Zamość has begun at the Great Market square. Consequently, city crews fenced a section on March 24 and may keep it closed until late April.

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What the team is doing

The city hired archaeologist Artur Witkowski to verify historic accounts. Moreover, he will try to establish the well’s original shape in the square’s southeast corner. The municipality funds the work after talks with the Bogumiła Sawa Civic Committee. In addition, Mayor Rafał Zwolak supports the effort as an honorary committee member. The regional conservator approved the dig late last year. However, weather delayed the start until March.

Why this matters for Zamość

The search ties directly to the city’s identity and built heritage. Therefore, officials hope the investigation will clarify how the market looked in Baroque times. Consequently, the city may reconstruct the well or mark its old outline next to the Pod Świętym Kazimierzem tenement. Such steps can change how locals and visitors experience the square. Moreover, any discovery could guide restoration work across the Old Town, which UNESCO protects informally through local conservation rules.

Practical effects on daily life

Workers removed cobblestones and soil under archaeological supervision. In addition, the archaeologist aims to finish earlier than planned. However, rain could halt the work quickly, and the dig might flood. Consequently, the city considered seasonal uses like winter or summer terraces when scheduling. The crew also coordinated with municipal services to avoid long-term disruption.

archaeological dig in Zamość: historical context and legacy

Bogumiła Sawa left a legacy tied to this project. Moreover, she funded studies and helped secure archival documents for Zamość. The committee bearing her name also financed a spatial study of the market well. Therefore, the work links community memory with professional archaeology. In May 2025, the city unveiled a plaque at Market Square 5a honoring Sawa. Consequently, residents view her as a champion of local heritage.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: Excavations in Poland require permits and local conservation approval. For expats, remember that municipal projects may affect nearby businesses and terraces. If you deal with property, you might need Polish documents such as a PESEL (national ID number), ZUS registration (social security), or NFZ access for health services (public health insurer). Therefore, check with the local town hall about permits and temporary access rules. Also, expect contractors to work in line with conservator guidance and seasonal calendars.

Residents, traders, and visitors will watch the results with interest. Moreover, discovery of relics could reshape the market’s layout and tourist narrative. The city hopes the findings will strengthen Zamość’s cultural profile. Therefore, officials financed the dig to protect and promote local history.

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