21 April 2011 | General, TD
Discovering submerged archaeological treasures and landscapes
Prehistoric archaeological materials have been found off the coasts of almost every European country. Submerged prehistoric landscapes contain unparalleled information on early human populations and environmental change which have now found an integrated investigation approach – between research and management – in truly international cooperation.
Coastal environments are a primary focus for human settlement and social development, but sea level has been low for most of human existence. Most evidence for the early colonisation and deep history of Europe is now submerged.
Early ancestors of modern humans originated in Africa and, two million years ago, they evolved and spread across Europe and Asia. Routes of migration involved crossing straits and channels which are now in deep water in various location across the European continent.
COST Action TD0902 'Submerged Prehistoric Archeology and Landscape of the Continental Shelf' is an international research group bringing together archeologists, marine geophysicists, environmental scientists, heritage agencies as well as commercial and industrial representations aiming at preserving these 'archives' of archaeological and palaeoclimatic heritage.
Key Documents
Contact Information
Dr
Julia Stamm
Science Officer Individuals, Societies, Cultures and Health
COST Office
Belgium
julia.stamm@cost.eu
Professor
Geoffrey Bailey
Department of Archaeology
University of York
United Kingdom
gb502@york.ac.uk
