Underwater Archaeology

Underwater archaeology is a kind of science done below the water. Scientists dive to look at old shipwrecks, sunken cities, and ancient objects. They wear scuba gear to breathe while they work. What they find helps us learn about people from long ago.

Looking at Shipwrecks

Old ships from hundreds of years ago still rest at the bottom of the ocean. Archaeologists carefully map out where everything lies. They take pictures and sometimes bring small items to the surface. These objects are cleaned and saved in museums. Each wreck tells a story about the people who sailed on it.

Sunken Cities

Some ancient cities are now underwater because of earthquakes or rising seas. A famous sunken city called Thonis-Heracleion was found off the coast of Egypt. Divers saw huge statues and temples covered in sand. Tools used by underwater archaeologists include underwater cameras and robots. Some wrecks are in water too deep for people to dive, so robots go instead.

Fun Facts

• There are millions of shipwrecks still hidden in the oceans.
• Cold and salty water can keep wood and cloth safe for a very long time.
• The oldest shipwreck ever found is over 2,400 years old.

Did You Know?

The Titanic is one of the most famous shipwrecks, and it was only found in 1985, over 70 years after it sank.