Underwater archeology in Spain is a window onto the vast cultural heritage hidden beneath the waters. This discipline has undergone notable development over the last few decades.notably for the creation of the National Museum of Underwater Archeology (ARQVA), in addition to several specialized centers.
All these Spanish institutions work tirelessly to study, protect and disseminate Spain’s underwater heritage. This constitutes a great contribution to the preservation of the historical heritage.
A huge legacy
Spanish underwater heritage It is made up of hundreds, if not thousands, of deposits and submerged ships. through the centuries. Each of them tells the story, whether it is conflict, commercial activities or exploring expeditions.
It is estimated that there are more than a thousand ships submerged in Spanish waters.. These remains contain an enormous wealth of historical information. Thanks to these, it is possible to deepen the knowledge of military actions or commercial or cultural issues.
Spain is a pioneer in the field of underwater archeology. Efforts in this regard have been consolidated through the formulation of the National Underwater Heritage Plan. This respects the guideline established by UNESCO, according to which all submerged objects over 100 years old are part of underwater heritage.
ARQVA and regional centers
The National Museum of Underwater Archeology (ARQVA) was inaugurated in 2008. It was established as one of the first museums dedicated exclusively to underwater archaeology. Its function is to study and preserve underwater heritage, as well as to make it available to citizens.
Likewise, over the past 90 years Official underwater archeology centers have been created in Catalonia, the Valencian Community and Andalusia.. Each of them protects, manages and disseminates the underwater heritage on its territory. They also carry out research related to the topic. Let’s see.
Underwater Archeology Center of Catalonia (CASC)
This center It was created in 1992 by the Generalitat of Catalonia.. In addition to carrying out the heritage inventory, its function is to protect, conserve and disseminate the underwater archaeological heritage in the coastal and inland waters of Catalonia. It aims to raise awareness of regional heritage and have it recognized and valued by the public.
Underwater Archeology Center of the Valencian Community
He Center for Underwater Archeology of the Valencian Community was also created in the early 90s. It is based in the port of Burriana and, as in the other cases, its central role is to manage the heritage submerged in local waters. This center documents, protects and disseminates discoveries of underwater archaeological remains in your area.
Center for Underwater Archeology of Andalusia (CAS)
It is located in Cádiz and is part of the Andalusian Institute of Historical Heritage (IAPH). Like the other centers, the CAS works on research, documentation, conservation and restoration of underwater archaeological heritage, in this case from Andalusia.
He has led several projects to rescue submerged heritagemainly through its head offices located at Balneario de la Palma and El Real.
An emblematic case
From the point of view of underwater archaeology, ancient objects found underwater They have, fundamentally, a high cultural value. Their commercial value is not taken into account, even if in many cases “treasures” have been discovered. In fact, this caused long-term disputes with other countries.
An emblematic case is that of the “Odyssey”. It refers to a ship that sank in 1804 and was loaded with gold. Nearly two centuries later, an American company found it and appropriated the treasure. This gave rise to litigation which lasted more than 14 years.
Finally, after hard efforts, A treasure comprising 574,553 gold and silver coins has been found.. This cultural property is currently housed at the National Museum of Underwater Archeology (ARQVA).
Techniques and challenges
underwater archeology combines diving techniques with advanced technologies such as photogrammetry, sonar and digital mapping. These tools allow researchers to effectively document and analyze submerged sites. However, this discipline faces significant challenges, such as natural erosion, pollution and human activity, which threaten the conservation of these precious remains.
The importance of protection
In Spain, legislation on the protection of underwater heritage has progressedhighlighting the Spanish law on historical heritage and international conventions such as the 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage. These regulations are essential to ensure that archaeological sites are studied and preserved for future generations.
Conclusion
As we continue to explore and study our seas and rivers, new doors open to understanding our collective history and appreciating a heritage that, although hidden, is fundamental to understanding our identity as a nation.
Recommended Reading
Aquatic archaeological investigation
About underwater archeology
