Preserving Heritage by Establishing a Maritime Archaeological Cultural Centre (MACC). A Case Study of the Island of Euboea (Evia), Greece.

This research focuses on Establishing a Maritime Archaeological Cultural Centre (MACC) on the Greek island of Euboea (Evia). Greece has an incredible history underwater, but currently, this heritage is almost completely invisible to the general public. This was experienced by myself during archaeological fieldwork in the region. The main question of this thesis is how a center like the MACC can help make this hidden heritage visible to everyone while ensuring that the archaeology is properly protected. The study examines the entire "maritime landscape": the connection between shipwrecks on the seabed and the villages and ports on the land. Three international examples were analyzed to learn what works and what doesn't. In Baia (Italy), scuba-divers help with the research through "citizen science". In Abu Qir (Egypt), the water is often so murky and polluted that it is almost impossible to see anything underwater. In Alonissos (Greece), an underwater museum already exists, but its...Show moreThis research focuses on Establishing a Maritime Archaeological Cultural Centre (MACC) on the Greek island of Euboea (Evia). Greece has an incredible history underwater, but currently, this heritage is almost completely invisible to the general public. This was experienced by myself during archaeological fieldwork in the region. The main question of this thesis is how a center like the MACC can help make this hidden heritage visible to everyone while ensuring that the archaeology is properly protected. The study examines the entire "maritime landscape": the connection between shipwrecks on the seabed and the villages and ports on the land. Three international examples were analyzed to learn what works and what doesn't. In Baia (Italy), scuba-divers help with the research through "citizen science". In Abu Qir (Egypt), the water is often so murky and polluted that it is almost impossible to see anything underwater. In Alonissos (Greece), an underwater museum already exists, but its remote location makes it difficult for many people to visit. The results show that the current policy of leaving everything on the seabed (in situ preservation) has a major disadvantage: the history remains invisible and is sometimes slowly detoriated. Specifically around Euboea, strong tidal currents, winds and murky water make it very difficult and dangerous for recreational divers to visit archaeological sites safely. The conclusion is that the MACC should be established as a center on land. By using modern techniques, such as photogrammetry, people can experience the maritime heritage and cultures. This model stimulates the local economy in line with the 'Blue Economy' and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by redirecting tourism away from the overcrowded capital toward the underdeveloped region of Central Greece. In doing so, maritime archaeology is transformed into an active partner in societal development.Show less

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Preserving Heritage by Establishing a Maritime Archaeological Cultural Centre (MACC). A Case Study of the Island of Euboea (Evia), Greece.