Underwater Cultural Heritage
Cultural Heritage
Underwater Cultural Heritage
Cultural HeritageUnderwater Cultural Heritage refers to cultural expressions, places, or objects valued for their historical, artistic, social, or spiritual meaning. It helps communities maintain identity and continuity while guiding protection and responsible use.
Source: UNESCO, ICOMOS
Underwater Cultural Heritage Convention (2001)
Legal & Organizations
Underwater Cultural Heritage Convention (2001)
Legal & OrganizationsA UNESCO treaty formally known as the 2001 Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage. It sets out guidelines and legal frameworks for preserving shipwrecks, sunken cities, and other submerged heritage. The convention discourages treasure-hunting and commercial exploitation of underwater sites, promoting instead scientific research and in-situ preservation (leaving items under water when feasible) so that these relics of human history are protected for future generations.
Source: UNESCO, Hague Convention, UNIDROIT, ICOM
