Since archaeologists first began to suit up in scuba gear in the 1960s, the excavation of underwater sites has transformed how we understand our past. We recently highlighted some of the most intriguing ongoing underwater projects, which got us thinking about all the amazing underwater sites that have come to light in the past half-century. With thousands of sites to choose from, we no doubt missed a favorite of yours, but for our doubloons, these 12 are the most exciting and surprising discoveries made during the age of underwater archaeology.
—The Editors
Submerged Sites
Underwater archaeology isn't just about shipwrecks; some of the most spectacular finds have been ancient villages, cemeteries, and even entire cities
Bronze Age Shipwrecks
The most exciting discoveries ever made in the Mediterranean were two vessels that gave archaeologists a complete picture of how mariners plied the seas during the Bronze Age.
Medieval Conflict at Sea
Vessels from opposite sides of the globe gave scholars an unprecedented glimpse into the tactics of naval warfare during a period when mastery of the seas became critical to the fates of nations.
Flagships of European Sea Powers
The War Between the States at Sea
Two of the most innovative 19th-century warships were lost at sea during the U.S. Civil War
Lucy Lydon is a student at the University of Edinburgh studying art history, classics, and archaeology.
