News & Events
New 16th Century Portuguese Shipwreck Discovered off Eastern Coast
The Maritime Archaeology Unit (MAU) has made a significant discovery of what appears to be a 16th-century Portuguese vessel off the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. The shipwreck, located approximately 12 nautical miles offshore from Batticaloa, contains well-preserved artifacts including cannons, anchors, and ceramic vessels that suggest it was a merchant ship involved in the spice trade.
"Initial observations indicate this vessel may have sunk during a storm while en route to Portugal from the Spice Islands," said Dr. Nimal Perera, Director of MAU. "The discovery provides valuable insights into early colonial maritime trade networks in the Indian Ocean."
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Conferences
International Conference on Maritime Heritage Conservation in South Asia
MAU will host an international conference bringing together experts from around the world to discuss the latest approaches to maritime heritage conservation in the South Asian context.
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Exhibitions
New Exhibition: 'Trade Winds & Treasures' Opens at National Museum
Our new exhibition featuring recently conserved artifacts from the Galle Harbour wrecks opens at the National Museum in Colombo, showcasing Sri Lanka's role in maritime trade networks.
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Publications
MAU Researchers Publish Comprehensive Study on Godawaya Ancient Port
After years of research, our team has published a definitive study on the Godawaya ancient port in the Journal of Maritime Archaeology, revealing new information about 2nd century CE trade networks.
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Training
Regional Workshop on Conservation of Waterlogged Archaeological Materials
MAU successfully conducted a two-week workshop training conservation professionals from South and Southeast Asia in specialized techniques for preserving waterlogged archaeological materials.
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Equipment
MAU Acquires Advanced Side-Scan Sonar System for Underwater Surveys
Thanks to funding from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, MAU has acquired a new high-resolution side-scan sonar system that will enhance our ability to locate and document underwater archaeological sites.
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Partnerships
MAU Signs MoU with Western Australian Maritime Museum for Research Collaboration
A new memorandum of understanding establishes a five-year research partnership focused on comparative studies of Indian Ocean maritime trade networks and shipwreck archaeology.
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International Conference on Maritime Heritage Conservation in South Asia
Join us for a four-day international conference bringing together experts in maritime archaeology, conservation, heritage management, and museum curation from across the world. The conference will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and field visits to significant maritime heritage sites in Sri Lanka.
Public Lecture: Maritime Trade Routes of Ancient Sri Lanka
Dr. Anusha Fernando will present the latest research findings on ancient maritime trade routes connecting Sri Lanka with other civilizations across the Indian Ocean.
Event DetailsUnderwater Photography Workshop for Archaeological Documentation
A specialized workshop teaching underwater photography techniques for archaeological documentation. Participants will learn both theoretical principles and practical skills through hands-on sessions.
Event DetailsChildren's Day: Maritime Archaeology Adventures
A special event for children aged 8-14, featuring interactive activities, treasure hunts, artifact handling sessions, and educational games focused on maritime archaeology and heritage.
Event DetailsWorkshop on 3D Documentation of Maritime Archaeological Sites
An advanced workshop focusing on photogrammetry and 3D modeling techniques for underwater archaeological sites and artifacts, taught by specialists from MAU and the University of Oxford.
Event DetailsFilm Screening: "Treasures of the Deep - Sri Lanka's Maritime Heritage"
Premiere screening of a new documentary film showcasing the work of the Maritime Archaeology Unit and Sri Lanka's rich underwater cultural heritage, followed by a Q&A session with the filmmakers and archaeologists.
Event DetailsApril 2025
Events on April 12, 2025
Public Lecture: Maritime Trade Routes of Ancient Sri Lanka
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