New Paths and Ancient Traces – Karoxbostel Watermill

Bridging the Generations

The project 'New Paths and Ancient Traces' brings together four very different actors: the historic Karoxbostel Watermill, the renowned Archaeological Museum Hamburg, scouts, and students from the Gymnasium Meckelfeld. This constellation makes the project a multi-generational educational and cultural experience.

Saturday, May 9, 2026

The project takes place as a single event on Saturday, May 9, 2026. The chosen date falls within the early phase of the Harburg District Summer Culture and utilizes the mild spring weather for outdoor activities at the watermill.

Archaeology and Ancient Traces

The Archaeological Museum Hamburg contributes its expertise in tracking and historical research to the project. Students from the Gymnasium Meckelfeld will be introduced to archaeological working methods, search for historical traces in the vicinity of the watermill, and learn how small finds lead to great insights.

Scouts and Outdoor Activities

The scouts bring outdoor competence, camp life, and practical nature experience. Scout activities in the surroundings of the watermill complement the archaeological program and create a holistic experience between history, nature, and community.

Watermill as a Historic Site

The Karoxbostel Watermill itself is an ancient industrial monument with centuries of history. It forms the thematic and local focal point of the project and, with its own milling tradition, embodies the connection between old ways and new applications.

Summer Culture Prize 2026

The award of the 2026 Summer Culture Prize recognizes the innovative cooperative structure and the pedagogical concept of the project. It demonstrates how cultural work, education, and extracurricular learning can be meaningfully combined.