Archaeological research

Archaeology is the science of studying mankind's past through material remains. These remains are found under the ground in the form of building foundations, graves, tools and other artifacts. Our municipality has a rich history and therefore many archaeological remains in the ground. For example, research has taken place in Gemert where a lot of information has been gathered about what the village looked like in the Middle Ages and through archaeological research we have been able to confirm that Bakel is one of the oldest villages in Brabant!

Why archaeological research?

The Heritage Act stipulates that it is forbidden to disturb an archaeological site. The municipality, developers and private individuals who want to build must take this into account in their plans. This is done because archaeological remains are fragile, once disturbed their information is lost forever. Therefore, in some cases, before construction is allowed, an archaeological survey must be conducted. This information is recorded and preserved for the future. A survey is not conducted by the municipality, but by archaeological research firm.

What does this mean for my application?

In the zoning plans, the municipality has estimated the probability of finding archaeological remains. Linked to this is a so-called exemption standard. If the chance of finding archaeological remains is not so high, more digging is allowed without mandatory research. If the probability of finding archaeological remains is high, the rules about digging are stricter. In this way, the municipality has ensured that archaeological sites are disturbed as little as possible. If you are planning to build somewhere or carry out large-scale earthmoving, you can estimate in advance whether you need to have archaeological research carried out. You can do this by consulting the zoning plan. As the municipality we are happy to help you with your initiative, if you have any questions about archaeology you can ask them via e-mail at gemeente@gemert-bakel.nl.

Metal Detection

The municipality of Gemert-Bakel has not set any special rules for the use of a metal detector. Within our municipality the national rules apply. These rules are designed to prevent unintentional disturbance of archaeological sites. The rules are:

• Searching is allowed only with the permission of the landowner.
• Searching is only allowed in the building layer (upper 30cm) or in loose soil (e.g. landfills, drained soil from construction pits).
• It is not permitted to remove finds from their original archaeological layers or traces.
• Searching is not allowed on archaeological monuments or sites where archaeological research is taking place.
• If an archaeological site is evident, the municipality should be contacted.
• Finds of historical or archaeological interest are reported to the municipality. Special finds must be temporarily deposited for documentation after which they are returned to the finder.

Report find

Anyone can come across something in their garden that they suspect is ancient. Have you found something that you think is an archaeological find? If so, contact the municipality at gemeente@gemert-bakel.nl.