International workshop
From May 14 to 23, 2025, Akdeniz University, a full member of the UNESCO-UNITWIN Network for Underwater Archaeology, hosted the CMAS Underwater Cultural Heritage Protection Workshop in Kemer, Antalya.
Organized by the university’s Underwater Archaeology Research and Application Center, and supported by national and regional organizations including TİKA, KETAV, and the Turkish Culture and Heritage Foundation, the workshop brought together experts from ministries of culture, universities, and research centers from across Europe, Central Asia, and North Africa.
Hands-On Training
The program provided participants with an exceptional opportunity to enhance their skills in researching, documenting, and safeguarding underwater cultural heritage.
Theoretical and practical sessions covered a broad range of topics, including advanced diving techniques, diving safety, underwater excavation with airlifts, archaeological photography, orthophoto documentation, and the use of multibeam and side scan sonar. Participants also received training in the use of underwater scooters, small research vessels, and amphora dating methods.
Promoting exchange and dialogue
A key feature of the workshop was the sharing of experiences through participant presentations on underwater archaeology initiatives from their home countries. These exchanges fostered dialogue on best practices and strengthened opportunities for future collaboration.
Round table meetings gathered scientists, cultural heritage professionals, and decision-makers to reflect on shared responsibilities for protecting underwater heritage. Discussions resulted in plans to develop new academic programs and expand international cooperation in the protection of submerged sites.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
The workshop was chaired by Prof. Hakan Öniz, Director of the CMAS Scientific Board for Underwater Cultural Heritage, and featured opening remarks from CMAS President Anna Arzhanova, UNESCO’s Dr. Ulrike Guerin, and CMAS Scientific Board President Prof. John Geurtz.
By combining practical training, knowledge sharing, and policy dialogue, the workshop reflected UNESCO’s core values of advancing scientific knowledge, fostering international collaboration, and promoting the safeguarding of underwater cultural heritage worldwide.
