The WRECKS4ALL 2.0 Conference "The Future of the Adriatic Past" thrilled Montenegro.
Leaders in underwater archaeology from all Adriatic countries gathered in Kotor to present projects on underwater cultural heritage and sustainable tourism development. A numerous interested international audience and institutional representatives plunged into the future of the Adriatics past. The conference was organized by the Laboratory for Maritime Archaeology, University of Montenegro, as part of the WRECKS4ALL 2.0 project, co-financed under the IPA South Adriatic program.
The event was opened by the Vice-Rector for Internationalization of the University of Montenegro, Prof. Dr. Sanja Peković. On the behalf of the Ministry of European Affairs the audience was addressed bz Slađana Pešić, while Milena Ražnatović, advisor for international cooperation at the Ministry of Culture and Media, highlighted the importance of the WRECKS4ALL 2.0 project for further development of mechanisms for the protection and valorization of the Adriatic underwater cultural heritage.
Chief of UNESCOs Unit for Underwater Cultural Heritage, Eduard Planche, emphasized UNESCOs support for the Laboratory for Maritime Archaeology and the WRECKS4ALL 2.0 project, introducing attendees to UNESCOs work and the status of implementation of the UNESCO 2001 Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage in the Adriatic region., Chair of UNESCOs UNITWIN Network for Underwater Archaeology, Dr Kalliopi Baika, presented the work in the context of protection and preservation of the rich underwater cultural heritage of the Adriatic, emphasizing the importance of the University of Montenegros membership.
Darko Kovačević from the University of Montenegro, Laboratory of Maritime Archaeology, presented the transformative impact of the IPA project WRECKS4ALL and the importance of cross-border cooperation for raising awareness of underwater cultural heritage and underwater tourism in the region. Vedran Dorušić then introduced the revolutionary Straton project, which has changed the approach to research, protection, and inclusion of underwater heritage in tourism. Focusing on research and protection of the ancient shipwreck at Cape Letavica on Pag, renowned Croatian scientist Dr. Irena Radić Rossi illuminated examples of good practice and cooperation between underwater archaeologists and the local community. Professor Rita Auriema from the University of Salento presented the challenges of valorizing Apulian maritime landscapes and the role of ESAC and the project "Sailing the Sea." Professor Andrej Gaspari from the University of Ljubljana spoke about the underwater cultural heritage of the Adriatic Sea and inland waters of Slovenia, providing insights into research, management, and inclusive public access. Dr. Massimo Capulli discussed the possibilities of tourism development related to underwater cultural heritage in the northern Adriatic. The Director of the National Archaeological Museum and Archaeological Park Egnazia, Dr. Fabio Galeandro, presented the new exhibition "Egnazia e il mare," focusing on maritime heritage and its integration into the museum space using the latest technologies. Barbara Davidde presented the "MUSAS" project, which deals with the study and enhancement of underwater cultural heritage. Professor Artur Meçollari illuminated fascinating archaeological sites in Albania, showcasing untapped potential for the development of diving tourism.
During the panel discussion, leaders in underwater archaeology from the Adriatic region responded to audience questions, discussing the application of best practice models in all Adriatic countries, heritage preservation, community engagement, and economic growth, paving the way for a sustainable future for coastal and maritime regions.
The day culminated in an unforgettable visit to the Maritime Museum of Montenegro, where participants embarked on a journey with WRECKS4ALL virtual reality through captivating underwater sites, followed by a pleasant cocktail reception, encouraging connection and collaboration.
May the preserved past inspire the future!