Meet the Hoplites in Wardown Park as part of International Museum Day. The Hoplite was a heavily-armed soldier in Ancient Greece, and was the central element of warfare.

See one for yourself at Hoplites In The Park on Sunday, May 18. This fun-filled afternoon includes the chance to visit a replica Greek commander's tent, watch marching soldiers, learn about the Hoplites' way of life and join in with the Hoplites' parade and drill.

Visitors can also try on a Hoplite helmet and during the afternoon children can make their own shield for £1.

A real Hoplite helmet, which is more than 2,400 years old and made from one piece of bronze, is on display in the British Museum roadshow Ancient Greeks; Athletes, Warriors and Heroes at Wardown Park Museum, which features highlights from the collection.

Vistors can join Tim Vickers, archaeology curator at Museums Luton for a free exhibition talk at 3pm.

The event is in collaboration with The Hoplite Association, a voluntary organisation formed in 2001 as the first re-enactment society in the world solely dedicated to recreating the life and experiences of the classical Greek period in museums, schools, TV and film.

Both events are free. For more information call 01582 546722.

Luton museums and galleries