🌿 ESC Volunteering in Belgium – “Gallo-Roman Farm of Malagne: Ancient Crafts, Nature & Heritage Revival” 🇧🇪

Step back in time and volunteer at one of Belgium’s most fascinating archaeological farms!

🏛️ Host Organisation

Association des Compagnons Bâtisseurs (CBB)
in cooperation with Association de Promotion du Site de Malagne
Rochefort, Belgium

🌍 About the Project

Ever wondered what life was like in Roman-era Belgium? 🏺

Join the Gallo-Roman Farm of Malagne, an archaeological park and open-air museum that brings ancient history to life through experimental archaeology, traditional craftsmanship, and sustainable farming.

As an ESC volunteer, you’ll be part of a passionate team preserving and reinterpreting heritage — working hands-on with animals, plants, and historical reconstructions while connecting with visitors and young learners.

From rebuilding ancient fences and tending to farm animals to teaching school groups about life in Roman times, this project is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to merge archaeology, ecology, and education! 🌾

🎯 Main Activities

🔨 Assist in manual work – gardening, building, pruning, repairing, and maintaining the site
🐑 Care for farm animals (sheep, horses, goats, etc.)
🏛️ Support heritage and archaeology workshops for children and visitors
🥖 Help demonstrate traditional crafts such as bread baking or blacksmithing
🌍 Participate in re-enactment events and local community activities
🌿 Promote environmental awareness and cultural heritage preservation

🏡 Accommodation, Food & Support

🏠 Private room in a shared volunteer house in Rochefort (1.5 km from the site)
🍽️ Food allowance and pocket money provided monthly
🚍 Free transport for project activities
💬 Participation is free of charge (travel reimbursement as per ESC rules)
🌱 Volunteers are encouraged to live sustainably and enjoy the natural setting

🪄 Application Link: Apply here via Compagnons Bâtisseurs Website

🎓 Training & Learning Opportunities

📘 On-arrival and mid-term ESC training provided by the French-speaking Belgian National Agency
🏕️ Additional training and networking events organized by CBB
🗣️ French language courses available for all volunteers
⚒️ Gain skills in heritage restoration, environmental sustainability, and community engagement

👥 Participant Profile

We’re looking for volunteers aged 18–30 who are:
✅ Enthusiastic about history, archaeology, and nature
✅ Physically active and comfortable with outdoor/manual work
✅ Open-minded, proactive, and adaptable to flexible schedules
✅ Happy to work with animals and without fear of getting their hands dirty
✅ Willing to learn French and engage with the local community
📜 A certificate of good conduct will be required.