Here are the main points of the article:
- Shipwrecks Reveal Rich Underwater Heritage: The discovery of shipwrecks by the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) in Goa highlights the region’s rich underwater archaeological heritage.
- Artefacts Tell Tales of Maritime Trade: Recovered artefacts, including pottery, glass bottles, Chinese ceramics, elephants’ tusks, and hippopotamus teeth, date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, showcasing Goa’s historical maritime connections with distant lands.
- St. George’s Reef: A Window to the Past: The artefacts found at St. George’s Reef near Grande Island offer valuable insights into Goa’s maritime history and its connections with other civilizations.
- Unexplored Potential: Goa’s Ancient Capitals: Despite their historical significance, Gopakapattana, Old Goa, and Chandor remain largely unexplored, holding immense potential for underwater archaeological discoveries.
- Connecting the Dots: Underwater Archaeology Across India: The workshop highlighted the importance of underwater archaeology in understanding India’s maritime past, citing examples from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and the Lakshadweep Islands.
- A Multifaceted Approach: Marine Conservation and Research: The workshop emphasized the importance of marine conservation, diving for research, and underwater archaeology in preserving and understanding our oceans.
- Collaboration for Discovery: The workshop, organized by the Asiatic Society for Social Science Research and Goa University’s D D Kosambi School, underscores the importance of collaboration in promoting research and understanding our underwater heritage.