Underwater and Maritime Archaeology

Description

This course introduces the principles and practices of underwater and maritime archaeology, focusing on the study, investigation, and preservation of cultural heritage located in marine, coastal, and underwater environments. It covers maritime archaeological sites such as shipwrecks, submerged settlements, ancient ports, and other underwater cultural resources. Students will explore methods of underwater surveying, remote sensing, mapping, documentation, excavation, and conservation. The course also examines legal and ethical frameworks, heritage management, tourism, and sustainable strategies for protecting and promoting underwater cultural heritage. By the end of the course, students will be able to: Explain the fundamental principles and importance of underwater and maritime archaeology. Identify major types of underwater and maritime archaeological sites. Describe basic methods and techniques used for underwater archaeological surveys and investigations. Apply appropriate approaches for documenting and recording underwater cultural heritage. Assess the main threats affecting underwater archaeological sites and cultural resources. Evaluate conservation and management strategies for protecting underwater cultural heritage. Analyze the legal and ethical issues related to underwater archaeology and heritage protection. Recognize the potential role of maritime cultural heritage in education, tourism, and the Sustainable Blue Economy.

Program

Master of Science Degree in Sustainable Blue Economy and Management of Coastal Resources (MSc SBEM)

Objectives

• To provide students with a fundamental understanding of the principles, scope, and importance of underwater and maritime archaeology. To introduce the methods and techniques used for the identification, documentation, investigation, and preservation of underwater cultural heritage. To examine the historical and cultural significance of shipwrecks, submerged settlements, ports, and other maritime archaeological sites. To develop students’ understanding of underwater survey, mapping, excavation, and recording techniques. To explore the legal, ethical, and conservation issues associated with the protection and management of underwater cultural heritage. To promote sustainable approaches to the preservation and responsible use of maritime archaeological resources.