Marine archeology: The hidden history
Abstract
Goa, with its 120 kms long coastline, had been the attraction for the mariners since the ancient historical period. There are several ancient ports mentioned in the literature and antiquity of the same has been attested. The important sites include Chandore, Gopakapattana, and Ela, which were the port capitals at different times of the long history. Four stone anchors from Goa waters indicate an active maritime activity during the pre-Portuguese period. An important aspect of marine archaeology are the ancient shipwrecks, in Goa waters. The archival records have indicated that several shipwrecks of Portuguese period are lying in shallow waters of Goa. Marine archaeological investigations have brought to light 4 shipwrecks of different dates, and the oldest is dating back to middle of the 17th century AD. The paper discusses the findings of marine archaeological explorations in Goa waters.
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