The International Centre for Underwater Archaeology (ICUA) in Zadar (Croatia) hosted the international conference “Maritime Renaissance – Post-Medieval Adriatic Trade Routes and their Mediterranean and Atlantic Links” at the St. Nicholas Education and Presentation Centre for Underwater Archaeology on 11–12 November 2025.
The event served as a valuable platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, showcasing contributions from diverse scientific and archaeological perspectives.
Leading experts, researchers and professionals in underwater archaeology and maritime history from Croatia, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Poland, Montenegro, and Bulgaria discussed recent discoveries and ongoing research on shipwrecks, maritime trade, and ship construction dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries.
Participants focused on the Adriatic’s role as a central hub for post-medieval navigation and trade, linking local routes to wider Mediterranean and Atlantic networks. Presentations showcased recent archaeological findings - from the Croatian coast to the Black Sea and the Baltic - highlighting the exchange of goods, technologies, and cultural practices across European seas.
The conference was organised with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Media of Croatia and the CEI, in partnership with the Croatian Conservation Institute, the Zadar County Tourist Board, and the Municipality of Pakoštane.
Through this Cooperation Activity, the CEI contributed to advancing the exchange of best practices and knowledge in the field of underwater cultural heritage and fostered collaboration among regional cultural institutions and professionals.
For more info: fabro@cei.int