We are pleased to announce that the publication The Chotyniec Report (vols. 1–4), edited by Professor Sylwester Czopek, and published by the University of Rzeszów Press in collaboration with Mitel Sp. z o.o., has received a distinction in the Academia 2025 competition for the best academic and scientific book. The competition accompanied the Warsaw International Book Fair.

This four-volume monograph, The Chotyniec Report, meticulously documents the archaeological excavations carried out between 2016 and 2024 at the Chotyniec hillfort — a vast site spanning 30 hectares. The research focused on reconstructing the layout of the fortifications and exploring areas of high scientific potential within the central part (maidan) of the site.

Of particular interest was the so-called zolnik — a ritual area rich in diverse movable artefacts. These include both hand-made and wheel-thrown ceramics, such as fragments of Greek amphorae used for transporting wine, as well as iron and bronze objects (including ornaments, tools, and weapons), and glass, faience, and bone artefacts. The excavation also yielded a substantial collection of animal bones, clay daub, and remains of wood used in situ for fire-setting.

The publication presents richly illustrated findings from a wide range of specialist analyses, including geomorphological, archaeometric, archaeozoological, biofloristic, and metallurgical studies. It also contains a comprehensive excavation report, detailing the research history, environmental context, methodology, results, and key interpretative conclusions.

This prestigious recognition highlights the significance of the Chotyniec site in the broader context of European archaeology and underscores the scientific excellence of the University of Rzeszów’s archaeological team.