Endangered maritime archaeology in North Africa – the MarEA Project

Maritime cultural heritage in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is increasingly threatened by conflict, climate change, and urbanization. The Maritime Endangered Archaeology (MarEA) Project, launched in 2019, addresses this crisis by rapidly assessing vulnerabilities and aiding management strategies for at-risk sites. A key finding highlights the dual approach of MarEA: a generalized threat assessment applied across all sites, demonstrated through the historic port of Suakin (Sudan), and a site-specific shoreline change analysis to evaluate coastal erosion impacts, showcased at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sabratha (Libya). This methodology provides a comprehensive framework for preserving maritime heritage under mounting pressures.

Nikolaus, J., Westley, K., & Breen, C. (2023). Endangered maritime archaeology in North Africa – the MarEA Project. Libyan Studies, 54, 135–150. https://doi.org/10.1017/lis.2023.4