UNESCO designates August 21 as International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage

UNESCO has designated August 21 as the first International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage. The decision, made during the 43rd UNESCO General Conference, aims to increase global awareness regarding the value of submerged sites, including shipwrecks, ancient settlements, and archaeological remains, while encouraging international cooperation for their protection against threats like climate change and illegal exploitation.

In Greece, the day highlights a vast maritime landscape ranging from prehistoric settlements to Byzantine ports and shipwrecks from both World Wars. The Greek Ministry of Culture has implemented several initiatives since 2019, including the creation of underwater archaeological parks in the Northern Sporades and Pagasetic Gulf, and the establishment of a dedicated management body for visiting underwater heritage sites.

In Slovenia, the day draws attention to approximately 70 registered underwater sites, including significant finds in the Ljubljanica river and over 50 archaeological sites in the Slovenian sea. Recent low river levels have also exposed various historical remains, underscoring the importance of monitoring these sites amidst environmental changes.