Underwater Archaeologist Flags Canary Islands Heritage Disparity

Clara García Díaz, an expert in conservation and underwater archaeology, recently discussed the challenges and opportunities of managing Spain's underwater cultural heritage, especially in the Canary Islands. Originally from Puerto de la Cruz, García Díaz studied at the University of La Laguna and completed a prestigious Master's in Nautical and Underwater Archaeology at the University of Cádiz – one of only four such programs globally. She points out a big difference in how Gran Canaria and Tenerife handle their heritage. Gran Canaria has successfully turned its archaeological sites into a way to boost the economy and educate the public. In contrast, Tenerife still sees its heritage as a hindrance to its main tourism model.

Underwater archaeology, García Díaz explains, involves studying all kinds of sites found underwater – from sunken ships and cities to submerged caves. It adapts research methods typically used on land for the aquatic environment. Spain's long maritime history means its coasts are home to a wealth of underwater treasures. Many traces of Spain's past, including ships, naval technology, and navigation tools, are also found worldwide. This legacy is a key part of the country's history and culture.

New technology has transformed underwater archaeology. García Díaz points out that tools like underwater robots (ROVs), side-scan sonars, GPS systems, and digital photogrammetry help explore deeper or more dangerous areas. They also pinpoint exact locations and create virtual models of underwater sites. These innovations broaden what researchers can study and make the work safer, though sometimes, archaeologists still need to get hands-on.

A key principle in preserving underwater heritage is in situ conservation, meaning objects are left where they are found. This approach is a priority in Spanish law and the 2009 UNESCO convention. It's preferred because it costs a huge amount of money and effort to remove, stabilize, and preserve items from underwater. The example of the Vasa ship, which has needed decades of ongoing care and repairs since its recovery, clearly shows just how complex and costly it is to bring things up. García Díaz stresses that sites should be left untouched for future generations, who will have even better and less damaging techniques. However, this priority doesn't mean institutions can ignore sites. They must still monitor their condition, put security measures in place to prevent looting, and only remove items when absolutely necessary.

In her work, García Díaz participates in several projects. These include updating the catalog for Spain's Cultural Heritage (BIC) for the Ministry of Culture, restoring artworks, and launching new underwater archaeology initiatives. She also uses this opportunity to speak out against unqualified people interfering in her field, citing examples like the infamous 'Ecce Homo' restoration in Borja. She believes these incidents show that the public often doesn't understand the specialized training, scientific standards, and ethical rules that guide conservation and restoration work. This compromises unique and irreplaceable artworks and highlights the need for stricter rules and more recognition for the profession.

How well cargo from centuries-old sunken ships is preserved depends on many things. The type of materials (inorganic materials last longer than organic ones), water temperature, ocean currents, the presence of marine life, and, most importantly, the kind of seabed all play a crucial role. Sandy or silty seabeds, by burying items, offer better protection against decay. But on rocky seabeds, remains are exposed and disappear faster. Clara García Díaz's passion for her profession, which combines digital research with hands-on work, underscores the importance of uncovering and protecting the hidden treasures of our past.