Underwater archaeology

Underwater Archaeology

Underwater archaeologists creating a scale drawing of a site.

Underwater archaeology is the study of human interaction with the sea, lakes, and rivers through the investigation of submerged sites, vessels, and landscapes. It is a branch of archaeology that requires specialized techniques and equipment to explore and document sites that are located underwater.

History

The origins of underwater archaeology can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the development of scuba diving technology. The first significant underwater archaeological excavation was conducted in the 1960s at the Antikythera wreck, a Roman shipwreck off the coast of Greece. Since then, the field has expanded significantly, with numerous projects around the world exploring shipwrecks, submerged settlements, and other underwater sites.

Techniques

Underwater archaeologists use a variety of methods to locate and study sites. These include remote sensing techniques such as side-scan sonar, sub-bottom profiling, and magnetometry. Once a site is located, divers may use underwater photography, video, and drawing to document the site. Excavation underwater is more challenging than on land due to factors such as visibility, currents, and the need for specialized equipment.

Notable Sites

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Overview of a submerged rock house in Lake Murray.

Some of the most famous underwater archaeological sites include the Titanic, the Mary Rose, and the Uluburun shipwreck. Each of these sites has provided valuable insights into historical shipbuilding, trade, and daily life.

Challenges

Underwater archaeology faces several challenges, including the preservation of artifacts, which can deteriorate rapidly once removed from the water. Additionally, the cost and complexity of underwater excavations can be prohibitive. Legal and ethical issues also arise, particularly concerning the ownership and protection of underwater cultural heritage.

Related Pages

• Maritime archaeology
• Shipwreck
• Scuba diving
• Marine biology

Gallery

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  The wreck of the "E. Russ".

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  The wreck of the "Aid".

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  A diver with a ship's bell.

References

• Bass, George F. "A Plea for a Lost Art." Archaeology 13, no. 2 (1960): 87-92.
• Muckelroy, Keith. Maritime Archaeology. Cambridge University Press, 1978.
• Delgado, James P. Lost Warships: An Archaeological Tour of War at Sea. Checkmark Books, 2001.

• Scale drawing underwater

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  Lake Murray rockhouse overview

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  Kaubalaeva "E. Russ" wreck

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  Laevavrakk "Aid"

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  Diver and ship's bell