Archaeology, ethnography and multivocalities: perceptions of archaeological heritage in an excavation in the historical center of Belém

Abstract

This article presents archaeology where it intersects with ethnography (ethnographic archaeology) as a possibility for listening to the many voices that manifest themselves during an excavation. I refer to these voices as multivocalities, and they are one of the means I use to investigate people’s perceptions of an excavation of a historical archaeological site. The backdrop for these discussions was an urban archaeology project in the district of Campina, in the immediate surroundings of the unique landmarks of Pará’s capital, Belém. Set amid this historical center, this text suggests that archaeological research can greatly benefit from the participation of citizens who enjoy the city and even become a tool for information, whether these people work directly together with archaeologists or visit the excavations. One conclusion is that through participation, archaeological and cultural heritage loses some of its ‘mystery’ and becomes easier for people to recognise and, in turn, perhaps preserve.

Keywords
Ethnographic Archaeology; Multivocalities; Urban Archaeology; Belém