Technologies Applied to Maritime Archaeology
University of Calabria
Reference Teacher: Salvatore Medaglia
Teacher(s): Salvatore Medaglia
The course provides a basic theoretical preparation on methodologies and innovative investigative tools currently adopted in underwater archaeological contexts. It examines the role of new technologies in mitigating the physical and environmental constraints of submerged cultural heritage research and in enabling exploration in deep bathymetric areas. The course focuses on marine robotic technologies, geophysical instruments for underwater mapping, methodologies for in situ conservation and restoration, and 3D survey and multi-resolution 3D modeling for the study and valorisation of underwater archaeological sites.
PhD training programme in “TEACH – TEchnology applied to Cultural Heritage”
At the end of the course, students will be able to describe the main methodologies and innovative investigative tools currently used in underwater archaeological contexts, including marine robotics, geophysical instruments, in situ conservation tools, and 3D survey techniques.
The students acquire skills in planning and carrying out underwater documentation, from data acquisition to multi-resolution 3D modeling, integrating in situ conservation and restoration practices. By presenting completed project activities, students apply their knowledge to possible scenarios, selecting appropriate technologies for surveying, excavation, and diagnostic interventions. They learn to assess the suitability and effectiveness of tools and methods, make informed operational decisions, and propose improvements based on critical understanding. Collaborative work further strengthens their ability to apply knowledge in team projects, ensuring that the documentation, analysis, and valorisation of underwater sites are conducted with technical rigor and interdisciplinary expertise.
Students will develop the ability to critically analyze and make informed evaluations regarding the effectiveness and suitability of the various technologies employed in scientific research on underwater cultural heritage. In particular, they will be able to identify and select the most appropriate technological tools and methodologies for underwater surveys, both direct and instrument-based, for archaeological excavation operations, for surveying activities conducted using optical and acoustic technologies, as well as for diagnostic and conservation interventions carried out on archaeological heritage in underwater environments. By the end of the course, students will possess the skills necessary to make well-founded decisions in selecting and applying technologies, to manage potential operational challenges, and to propose improvements based on a solid critical understanding of the methodologies and their implications in real-world applications.
Students will consolidate advanced communication skills, learning to structure and present the results of their work in a rigorous and effective manner through various formats, including technical reports, oral presentations, and scientific or outreach-oriented written contributions. They will also be guided in developing collaborative abilities, working in synergy with specialists from different fields to design and implement applications and multimedia communication projects aimed at enhancing cultural heritage. The educational pathway will place strong emphasis on teamwork, fostering cooperative dynamics, shared planning, and coordinated task management. Students will be encouraged to engage with external contexts by presenting their projects in academic or professional settings and by adopting appropriate technical language that combines terminological precision with clarity for a broader audience.
With regard to the topics covered, by the end of the course the student will be required to:
– demonstrate the ability to relate the topics addressed in the course to other disciplinary fields, both within the humanities and in the technical-scientific domain.
– acquire, in terms of knowledge and understanding, familiarity with the methods and techniques of documentation and initial conservation intervention relating to submerged archaeological sites, including both movable finds and fixed structures;
– develop a critical perspective on issues concerning the protection and enhancement of underwater archaeological heritage, with particular reference to new technologies;
Basic computer skills are required. Familiarity with cultural heritage concepts is recommended.
The course includes a combination of lectures and seminars. Lectures with the use of computers, projectors, and laboratory equipment. In consideration of the possibility that the course may be attended by students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD), educational materials will be prepared and provided in compliance with accessibility and usability standards, also taking into account the digital literacy of each student.
At the end of the course, a questionnaire will be administered to the students containing closed-ended questions. Questions are addressed to evaluate the knowledge and skills acquired during the course.
During the lectures, case studies drawn from practical underwater archaeological research will be presented and discussed. The analysis of these examples will enable students to gain a deeper understanding of how innovative technologies have contributed to optimizing investigative procedures and achieving scientifically significant results.
The expected learning outcomes can contribute to the achievements of Goal 14: Life below water – Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.
The “Technologies Applied to Maritime Archaeology” course is part of the TEACH (TEchnology applied to Cultural Heritage) PhD programme and it is accessible to all students enrolled in research doctorates at the University of Calabria.
More information at the following link:
https://www.unical.it/didattica/offerta-formativa/dottorati/?lang=en
For further information or specific inquiries, you may contact the “Educational Services Area” of the University of Calabria using the contact details and methods provided at the following link: https://www.unical.it/didattica/iscriversi-studiare-laurearsi/contatta-i-servizi-didattici/?lang=en
For a history of the role of technologies in underwater archaeological investigation: from the earliest bathyscopic bells to modern ROVs
The multidisciplinary dimension of underwater archaeology
Marine robotic technologies for the investigation of deep-water archaeological sites
Digitalization of high-depth archaeological contexts
Geophysical tools for mapping underwater cultural contexts
Application of geophysical methods in archaeological research
Methodologies and new tools for in situ conservation and restoration of submerged cultural heritage
3D surveys and multi-resolution 3D models for the study and valorisation of underwater archaeological sites
Teaching material and tutorials will be provided by the lecturers.