International conference Maritime Renaissance – Post-Medieval Adriatic Trade Routes and their Mediterranean and Atlantic Connections was held

On Tuesday, November 11, the international conference Maritime Renaissance – Post-Medieval Adriatic Trade Routes and Their Mediterranean and Atlantic Connections was launched at the Educational and Presentation Centre for Underwater Archaeology of St. Nicholas. Hosted by ICUA Zadar in collaboration with the Croatian Conservation Institute, the event opened with remarks from Mr. Mladen Pešić, Director of ICUA Zadar; Mr. Boris Mostarčić, Director of the Croatian Conservation Institute; and Ms. Andrea Cukrov, Head of the Archaeology Department at the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Media.

The conference welcomed participants from across Europe, including Italy, Spain, Portugal, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Poland, the Netherlands, and Croatia. The program featured thematic panels, a poster session, and curated visit to the Museum of Wooden Shipbuilding in Betina. Supported by the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Media, the event was co-financed by the Central European Initiative (CEI) Cooperation Fund, with sponsorship contributions from the Zadar County Tourist Board and the Municipality of Pakoštane.

Over the course of two days, experts in maritime archaeology, history, and heritage unveiled discoveries, innovative methodologies, and fresh perspectives on Post-Medieval maritime trade. The international gathering explored the dynamic networks that once connected the Adriatic to the wider Mediterranean and Atlantic worlds, revealing the rich tapestry of seafaring life, commerce, and cultural exchange.

Lecture topics spanned a wide range, from dramatic shipwreck stories - such as the tale of the Franina shipwreck - to in-depth studies of vessels including the Venetian merchantman wreck and the Madonna SS Carmine (1724). Presentations covered port infrastructure (highlighting how underwater archaeology intersects with urban development in Cádiz, Spain), advances in anchor design, and the ways these factors influenced maritime navigation and trade. Case studies included the Portuguese wreck at Ngomeni, the Kabala shipwreck, the Dutch expansion in maritime activity, and the revival of shipbuilding in the early modern Netherlands.

Comparative insights into maritime heritage were also offered, featuring Post-Medieval glass finds from the Black Sea Bay, new discoveries from Adriatic wreck sites, and the transformation of the Gulf of Gdańsk wreck site into an underwater archaeological park.

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