Emerging Technologies for the Documentation, Conservation, and Promotion of the Underwater Cultural Heritage
Organizers’ contacts:
Loris Barbieri – Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical, Energy and Management Engineering (DIMEG), University of Calabria
loris.barbieri@unical.it
Barbara Davidde – Director, Underwater Archaeological Operations Unit (NIAS), Central Institute for Restoration (Italian Ministry of Culture)
barbara.davidde@cultura.gov.it
Antonio Lagudi – Researcher, Department of Mechanical, Energy and Management Engineering (DIMEG), University of Calabria
antonio.lagudi@unical.it
Abstract
Underwater Cultural Heritage (UCH) is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the integration of advanced digital and engineering technologies. Acoustic and optical sensing, high-resolution 3D photogrammetry, simulation environments, and robotic platforms are reshaping how submerged archaeological sites and shipwrecks are documented, monitored, and valorised.
This special session aims to bring together researchers, engineers, and practitioners to discuss cutting-edge digital solutions and methodological approaches for the documentation, in-situ conservation, and enhancement of UCH. Contributions may address advanced surveying techniques, novel underwater tools and robotic systems supporting archaeological activities, or Extended Reality (XR) technologies that enable digital dematerialization and broader accessibility of submerged heritage.
The session also welcomes discussions on sustainable management strategies, protection policies, and digital outreach models that contribute to blue growth, cultural accessibility, and responsible underwater tourism. Emphasis is placed on holistic approaches combining engineering, archaeology, conservation sciences, and advanced computation.
Topics of Interest
- Underwater archaeology and high-resolution surveying
- Underwater and through-water photogrammetry
- Advanced digital tools and technological solutions for UCH
- Robotic systems for underwater exploration and conservation
- Extended Reality (XR) for accessibility and dissemination
- Digital Underwater Twins for documentation and monitoring
- Simulation tools for conservation, analysis, and site interpretation
- Sustainable management and promotion of underwater sites