Underwater Archeology – Republic of Croatia

Today, let’s discover the Educational and Presentation Centre for Underwater Archaeology St. Nicholas, which is part of the International Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Zadar.

In previous years, the complex of the former Church and Monastery of St. Nicholas was renovated and reopened in 2024 as the Educational and Presentation Centre for Underwater Archaeology St. Nicholas (St. Nicholas Centre). The complex is currently managed by the International Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Zadar (ICUA Zadar). The primary purpose of the St. Nicholas Centre is to effectively complement the cultural, educational and scientific segment of the ICUA Zadar, as well as to promote sustainable tourism through cultural heritage.

The St. Nicholas Centre is home to a permanent exhibition on Croatian underwater archaeology, which draws on research conducted by ICUA Zadar. Visitors can discover the richness of submerged heritage through the displayed archaeological exhibits. The permanent exhibition is enhanced with virtual content, tactile screens and VR glasses, offering visitors an interactive and engaging insight into the fascinating world of underwater archaeology.

The ground floor of the former church has been adapted for hosting temporary exhibitions, and the space is also used for seminars, lectures, concerts, and other cultural and social events. A newly constructed pavilion in the courtyard is utilised for educational and scientific demonstration workshops, catering to all target groups, as well as for seminars, presentations and interactive newly created content.

The ICUA Zadar operates under the auspices of UNESCO (status of a UNESCO Centre of the 2nd category), and works to study, preserve and promote underwater cultural heritage in Croatia and beyond. The Centre's primary focus is on facilitating international professional and research collaboration, as well as education in the field of underwater archaeology. It is also committed to raising public awareness of underwater cultural heritage.

Click here for a brief tour of the St. Nicholas Centre.

Watch this video about underwater archaeological excavations on the remains of an ancient Roman shipwreck.

Bonus Trivia!

The St. Nicholas Centre is located in the heart of Zadar, which Alfred Hitchcock described as having “the most beautiful sunset in the world”!

Sources: https://www.icua.hr/en, https://www.svnikola.icua.hr/en, https://www.zadar.hr/en/destinations/zadar

Photographs taken from: https://www.icua.hr/en/st-nicholas-centre

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