Cutting a Long Story Short?: Underwater and Maritime Archaeology in Cyprus

Abstract

Since the 1960s, underwater archaeological work in Cyprus has been conducted by non-Cypriot teams, although the local archaeological community always acknowledged the importance of the sea in the history of the island. During the last decade, the field has been incorporated in the local academic activity and several underwater projects have been conducted by the University of Cyprus. Moreover, the Department of Antiquities has created conservation facilities and has made significant changes in the Antiquities Law in order to ensure the protection of underwater antiquities. This paper discusses the different aspects of maritime archaeology that have been developed in Cyprus through the years, as well as the local social and political contexts that have impacted them. The discussion touches on similar patterns attested in the history of the discipline in other Mediterranean countries.