Heritage Commission Launches 2nd Phase of Red Sea Underwater Heritage Survey

 The second phase builds upon a series of national initiatives dedicated to preserving the Kingdom's diverse cultural heritage. Photo via SPA
The second phase builds upon a series of national initiatives dedicated to preserving the Kingdom's diverse cultural heritage. Photo via SPA
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Heritage Commission Launches 2nd Phase of Red Sea Underwater Heritage Survey

 The second phase builds upon a series of national initiatives dedicated to preserving the Kingdom's diverse cultural heritage. Photo via SPA
The second phase builds upon a series of national initiatives dedicated to preserving the Kingdom's diverse cultural heritage. Photo via SPA

The Heritage Commission has announced the launch of the project's second phase, which is focused on studying underwater cultural heritage sites along the Red Sea Coast. This project involves partnerships with King Abdulaziz University, the University of Naples L'Orientale in Italy, and international partners, including the Alexandria Center for Maritime Archaeology and Underwater Cultural Heritage, the National Research Institute of Maritime Cultural Heritage in South Korea, and the University of Cape Town in South Africa.
According to SPA, the second phase builds upon a series of national initiatives dedicated to preserving the Kingdom's diverse cultural heritage. This includes developing a sustainable approach to conserving underwater heritage, with a specific focus on sites spanning the governorates of Jeddah and Al-Qunfudhah. It seeks to provide accurate information for the management and protection of these sites and expand research and scientific studies related to them. The ultimate goal is to enhance knowledge and documentation of this cultural heritage.
Expected outcomes include comprehensive reports analyzing archaeological findings, a developed management plan, and detailed scientific documentation of submerged heritage elements. These will contribute to the national archaeological registry and enhance the national protection of underwater cultural heritage along the Red Sea Coast. This project will also highlight the historical and cultural connections between Saudi Arabia and various countries, as the Red Sea Coast is a major historical maritime route.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has made significant efforts in this field, which aligns with the UNESCO Underwater Cultural Heritage 2001 Convention. These include establishing a dedicated center for underwater cultural heritage, a key initiative within Vision 2030 aimed at achieving sustainable development in the field of national heritage.



Amerigo Vespucci Brings Italy's Rich Maritime Culture to Jeddah's Shores

Amerigo Vespucci brings Italy's rich maritime culture to Jeddah's shores. (SPA)
Amerigo Vespucci brings Italy's rich maritime culture to Jeddah's shores. (SPA)
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Amerigo Vespucci Brings Italy's Rich Maritime Culture to Jeddah's Shores

Amerigo Vespucci brings Italy's rich maritime culture to Jeddah's shores. (SPA)
Amerigo Vespucci brings Italy's rich maritime culture to Jeddah's shores. (SPA)

The historic Italian ship Amerigo Vespucci has drawn thousands of visitors of all ages and nationalities during its stop at the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina, from January 27 to 30, as part of its global tour aimed at showcasing Italy's cultural heritage and promoting maritime sustainability.

Several visitors shared their admiration for this maritime masterpiece with the Saudi Press Agency. Abdullah Al-Ghamdi described his visit as a unique cultural experience, while Noha Al-Harbi viewed it as a valuable opportunity to introduce her children to new cultures, rich with educational and entertaining experiences.

Crew member Antonio DeSimone remarked, "Jeddah blends modernity and heritage, and visitors' enthusiasm for the ship's history made us feel at home." Similarly, Italian visitor Maria Rossi emphasized the ship's significance in Italy's maritime heritage, praising the warm hospitality extended to the crew in Jeddah.

Gilda Ortega from the Philippines noted that her visit allowed her to explore Italy's maritime heritage, and Mohammad Ashraf from India emphasized that the ship represents a global maritime legacy and a bridge for cultural exchange between nations.

Built in 1930, Amerigo Vespucci is one of Italy's oldest and most renowned sailing ships. Now serving as a training vessel for the Italian Navy, it carries a rich history of global voyages, introducing people to Italian maritime culture and fostering international cultural exchange.