Established in 2000, the Vaie Museum Laboratory of Prehistory deals with pre - protohistoric archaeology, in particular ancient technologies.
It is located in the historical centre of Vaie, a town known for the excellence of its water and for its Neolithic site, situated at the foot of the Sacra di San Michele and along the Via Francigena, in the area of the Chiuse d'Italia.
The archaeological remains constitute the first stage of a walk through the woods, which leads easily (but mountain footwear is required!) to the marshy area, the panoramic promontory of San Pancrazio and the Museo Laboratorio.
The small museum brings the visitor surprisingly close to the world of prehistory by presenting its collection of experimental reconstructions (don't forget the ‘tactile’ section), casts of the Vayes finds and a Neolithic hut interior. The tour is completed by illustrated thematic panels (cultures, technologies, materials, daily life).
The museum (experimental archaeology - ancient technologies - tactile collection) is open by appointment and for a fee throughout the year for guided tours and educational workshops (groups, families, pre-school, primary and secondary schools).
It offers annual ‘Prehistoric Days’: technology demonstrations, specialised workshops, usually free of charge, and ‘Sundays at the Museum’: basic workshops for children and families, for a fee. Guided tours can be requested during opening hours.