Underwater Archaeology & Digital Heritage Training @ Ulcinj, Montenegro, April 7-11, 2025
Course Overview:
The underwater environment holds an immense cultural heritage, often described as the world’s largest museum. This course introduces participants to underwater archaeology, emphasizing its importance in the preservation, research, and promotion of submerged cultural heritage. A particular focus is placed on documentation techniques, introducing traditional methods and mastering advanced digital photogrammetry for creating photorealistic 3D models. These methods support site conservation, monitoring, and public engagement.
Through a combination of theoretical lectures and practical exercises, participants will gain hands- on experience in underwater archaeological documentation, from site identification to data processing and 3D model creation. The course also explores the application of digital documentation in scientific research, cultural heritage management, and recreational diving operations.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will:
• Understand the fundamentals of underwater archaeology.
• Develop skills in both traditional and digital documentation techniques, mastering 3D photogrammetry.
• Learn to about the equipment, underwater photogrammetry workflows, including data collection, processing, and 3D modeling.
• Learn how to utilize photogrammetry for monitoring, research, and the promotion of underwater sites within the tourism sector.
• Recognize the significance of underwater cultural heritage for tourism and conservation.
Learning Outcomes:
Participants will master:
• Digital documentation of underwater archaeological sites using photogrammetry.
• Data acquisition and processing in Agisoft Metashape.
• The creation and interpretation of 3D models for research, monitoring, and tourism.
• Integration of digital documentation into the daily operations of heritage institutions and diving centers.
Teaching Methods:
The course consists of both theoretical and practical components:
• Lectures: Delivered in English using PowerPoint presentations, covering key topics in underwater archaeology and digital documentation.
• Hands-on Training: Practical exercises, instructed in English, include:
- 2D documentation methods (offset, trilateration, direct survey techniques) on land.
- Underwater photogrammetry exercises in a controlled environment (pool or shallow water) and field applications.
- Photogrammetry exercises on land.
- Data processing and 3D model creation using specialized software.
Course Modules:
• Introduction to Underwater Archaeology
• Traditional and Digital Documentation Methods: Introduction to Photogrammetry
• Underwater Photogrammetry: Data Collection and Imaging Techniques
• Processing Photogrammetric Data in Agisoft Metashape
• 3D Model Applications in Research, Conservation, and Diving Tourism
• Site Monitoring and Integration with Heritage Management Institutions
Required Materials and Equipment:
• Laptop (participants must bring their own laptops)
• Agisoft Metashape software (to be provided at the beginning of the course)
This course is designed for heritage professionals, students, researchers, and diving professionals interested in applying digital tools to the preservation and study of underwater cultural heritage.
