The Warmian–Masurian Voivodeship is a region in Poland characterised by a distinctive geopolitical position and a complex historical legacy. Most of its territory did not historically belong to Poland and, until the Middle Ages, was inhabited by Baltic tribes.
Through selected examples, we demonstrate the significant changes in the protection of archaeological monuments in Warmia and Masuria over the past century.
We examine the history of a former churchyard cemetery in a Masurian town, the issue of archival sites excavated during the era of the German province of East Prussia, and the contemporary challenge posed by the rapid and difficult-to-control expansion of built-up areas.
Although the Prussian heritage protection system was politically motivated, it resulted in a significant increase in the detection of archaeological sites in the region, a level of discovery not surpassed until the introduction of LiDAR technology.
During the socialist period in Poland, archaeology benefited from its political utility. However, in the Warmian–Masurian region, evidence of Polish heritage was scarce. Heritage protection services, constrained by limited resources, operated minimally, and many sites were documented with significant negligence.
Following the restoration of democracy in Poland in 1989, heritage protection services encountered new challenges resulting from economic transformation and social change. Currently, the cultural heritage of Warmia and Masuria is undergoing a revival. The region attracts individuals seeking respite from urban environments. However, increased development pressure, combined with persistent attitudes from the previous system, contributes to the destruction of archaeological sites, particularly when limited awareness of heritage value is overshadowed by the pursuit of immediate profit.
We contend that raising awareness is essential for safeguarding the future of cultural heritage.

First Author: Magdalena Kozicka

Co-Authors: Joanna Ciesielska

Keywords:
archaeological heritage protection
population assimilation
archival sites
public awareness
Warmia and Masuria