Italy’s Ministry of Culture announced it will launch a department appointed to manage the conservation of the country’s underwater historical relics.
Italy is known for its rich archeological history not only on land, but also under the ocean. The country’s new National Department for Underwater Patrimony will ensure all artefacts, art and cultural pieces in the ocean and inland waterbodies belonging to the nation will remain protected by law.
‘Underwater archaeology is one of the most important areas of research in our country,’ Italian Minister of Culture Dario Franceschini said according to Lonely Planet.
The Department will be headed by underwater archaeology expert Barbara Davidde.
Some of Italy’s famous underwater museums include the ancient Roman city of Baia. The once-thriving coastal entertainment hub was attacked by an army in the 8th century, according to Atlas Obscura.
By 1500, only ruins remained. The water level slowly rose due to volcanic activity and eventually, the whole city was submerged.
Today, Baia is a popular under ocean tourist attraction featuring sculptures, homeware, the remains of houses and other relics that are still remarkably preserved. The area can be visited by snorkelling, scuba diving or even glass-bottom boat tours.
Underwater ruins of the Roman town of Baiae, one of my fave #FaeVisions. Anthology giveaway: https://t.co/RCaRG0cmyO pic.twitter.com/t3hJq7zhQF
— Valeria Vitale (@nottinauta) May 27, 2016
Latin word of the day:
summergo, summergere, summersi, summersum = to sink
The lower part of Roman Baiae later became submerged in the sea due to local volcanic activity #Latin #Vocab #Learning #MuseumsUnlocked – The Sea pic.twitter.com/sZFE4SPkfS
— Digital Maps of the Ancient World (@DigitalMapsAW) November 6, 2020
Underwater Archaeological Park of Baiae, Italy… 😮😮😮 pic.twitter.com/5V8wgs2HVq
— (((((SunDog)))))🌞🐶🌎🔨↗️ (@flatearthohio) June 30, 2020
Picture: Twitter/nottinauta
