Ancient ‘Acropolis of the sea’ opens to divers

·

Hidden and protected for millennia, an ancient shipwreck in Greece opens to the public for the first time on Aug. 3, fusing archaeological wonders in the depths of the sea with the marvels of modern-day artificial intelligence.

Access to underwater sites is typically restricted in Greece to preserve their integrity. But authorities have been able to allow recreational diving at the shipwreck at Peristera, thanks to computer surveillance technology.

Underwater cameras monitor the site, and use image recognition software to alert administrators instantly if the wreck is in danger of being disturbed.

The site is located off a tiny outcrop off the Aegean island of Alonnisos, where a wooden vessel sank in the late 5th century B.C., taking with it thousands of amphorae, pointy-bottomed clay jugs used for commerce across the ancient Mediterranean.

“We were lucky to start with one of the most beautiful ancient wrecks in the world. They call it the Acropolis of sea wrecks,” said George Papalambrou, an assistant professor of power propulsion at the National Technical University of Athens.

Papalambrou, who works at the University’s School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, says the custom-made monitoring system — with solar power, recognition software and luminosity-triggered lens wipers to unclog debris — could be a template deployed to other underwater sites.

George Papalambrou, an assistant professor of power propulsion at the National Technical University of Athens. Reuters/ Costa Baltas

“The idea is to try to resemble how the human optical system, our eyes, are able to determine an object which passes in front of us,” he said.Slideshow (5 Images)

Dimitris Kourkoumelis, an underwater archaeologist at Greece’s Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities, says the pilot project could make more sites accessible.

“It is the first time, and not only not just in Greece but on a pan-European level, that such a site, such a shipwreck so large with so many objects, is opening to the public and divers,” Kourkoumelis said.

A live streaming underwater video camera is seen near the the ancient shipwreck of Peristera islet, off the shores of the island of Alonnisos, Greece, March 13, 2020. Picture taken March 13, 2020. Vassilis Mentogiannis/Undersea Vision Surveillance System (NOUS) /Handout via REUTERS

Archaeologists say the wreck gives insight into commerce in the period known as the Golden Age of Athens. The 3,000-3,500 amphorae on board may have been transporting wine.

“I have dived at many sites. It was the first time I felt so emotional,” Kourkoumelis said. “Truly, its difficult to explain … it is something really impressive.”

Sourced By: Reuters

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Earlwood’s Greek spirit centre stage as ‘Plateia’ Festival secures state funding

The City of Canterbury Bankstown will host the “Love Earlwood” festival thanks to the NSW Government’s Open Streets 2025-28 Program.

Greek Consul General honoured at Hellenic Club farewell event in Sydney

Sydney’s Greek community came together on Thursday for a dignified farewell dinner in honour of Greece’s Consul General, Ioannis Mallikourtis

Field of candidates announced for 2025 Greek Community of Melbourne Board election

Greek Community of Melbourne has officially called elections for a new Board of Directors, with members set to head to the polls on June 29.

Australia Cup 2025: Strong Greek heritage club presence as Final 32 locked in

The cast for the Hahn Australia Cup 2025 Round of 32 has been decided following the completion of the Preliminary Rounds.

Apostolakis and Trimis named on Young Matildas squad for upcoming training camp

CommBank Young Matildas Head Coach Alex Epakis has settled on a 32-player squad for a domestic training camp to be held in Sydney.

You May Also Like

Aliki Diplarakou: All you need to know about Greece’s first Miss Europe

Aliki Diplarakou, or Lady Russell as widely known, was the first Greek contestant to win the Miss Europe title in 1930.

GOCSA to hold meeting with Archbishop Makarios despite Constitutional breach concerns

The GOCSA will meet with Archbishop Makarios of Australia, despite the meeting being in potential breach of their Constitution.

The Greek Herald celebrates new beginnings with official ‘Relaunch’ Party and 94th year anniversary

The Greek Herald, the largest national daily Greek newspaper in Australia, signified its transition into the new era, with a relaunch party last Thursday.