RPA asbl

Recherches et Prospections archéologiques (RPA asbl) is a Belgian nonprofit association dedicated to protecting archaeological heritage. Founded in 1992 and based in Wavre, it focuses exclusively on preventive archaeology in Wallonia and Brussels, working across all historical periods. Its activities include archaeological surveys, evaluations, test excavations, rescue excavations, site monitoring and, more recently, studies of historic buildings. The association also conducts scientific research arising from its fieldwork, restores archaeological materials and shares findings through publications, conferences, site visits and other public presentations.

RPA’s work helps identify and safeguard archaeological remains threatened by construction and other land-development projects. Recent operations have included investigations at Place Licourt in Herstal, where a religious building and early medieval cemetery were discovered, and on Rue Nacfer in Wihéries, where a nineteenth-century parish cemetery and medieval structures were recorded. The association has also undertaken preventive and remedial conservation following the July 2021 floods. Since 2020, RPA reports carrying out around 20 operations annually and employing 18 full-time-equivalent staff per year.