The first Laboratory of Maritime Archaeology - LabMa - has opened in Montenegro

The University of Montenegro has announced the opening of a new center for maritime archaeology, LabMa, the first of its kind in the Balkans. The LabMA laboratory was created as a result of the Wrecks4All project, led by the Montenegrin Faculty of Maritime Studies. This is a joint initiative that the university is implementing with

ByTomasz Andrukajtis

Published: October 13, 2022 - 09:00

Updated: July 23, 2023 - 01:23

The first Laboratory of Maritime Archaeology – LabMa – has opened in Montenegro

The University of Montenegro has announced the opening of a new center for maritime archaeology, LabMa, the first of its kind in the Balkans.

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The LabMA laboratory was created as a result of the Wrecks4All project, led by the Montenegrin Faculty of Maritime Studies. This is a joint initiative that the university is implementing with partners from Bosnia and Croatia. By joining forces, all entities intend to create a new and innovative branch of tourism based on the region’s underwater cultural heritage. LabMa is part of the University of Montenegro ‘s Center for Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, based in the city of Kotor.

Wreckage of a World War II fighter jet — The wreckage of the Supermarine Spitfire MK IX aircraft Photo: LabMA

LabMA Objectives

The main task of the Maritime Archaeology Laboratory will be to support underwater research, develop maritime archaeology and make available to the public the cultural heritage treasures that have found their way to the bottom of the Adriatic Sea. Undoubtedly, the modern research facility will allow a combination of advanced technology and modern procedures. Scientists thus want to create a research unit that will be distinguished by the highest standards in the study, creation of documentation and protection of underwater monuments.

Experience in Malta

LabMA ‘s work will be headed by marine archaeologist Darko Kovacevic. He is a high-level specialist who previously worked at the Underwater Cultural Heritage Unit – UCHU in Malta, among others. Certainly, many of our regular readers are well acquainted with some of the wreck projects carried out by Heritage Malta, which we have written about on the portal and in DIVERS24 magazine. Certainly, the experience Kovacevic has gained will try to transfer to new ground and successfully implement similar initiatives in Montenegro.

World War II diver at the bottom of the Adriatic Sea — Wreck of a French destroyer at the bottom of the Adriatic Sea Photo: LabMA

Destination Montenegro

The turbulent and extremely colorful history of the region is undoubtedly perfectly visible at the bottom of the Adriatic Sea. Montenegro and its territorial waters, on the other hand, is still an unrecognized and relatively rarely chosen destination for diving expeditions. Compared to nearby Croatia, it can be said that it is an almost virgin direction. Therefore, all divers interested in new and interesting places waiting to be discovered should include it in their upcoming plans.

You can read more about the charms of diving in this beautiful country in our report below.

Photo: LabMA

About author

Tomasz Andrukajtis

Editor-in-chief of the DIVERS24 portal and magazine. Responsible for obtaining, translating and developing content. He also supervises all publications. Achived his first diving certification – P1 CMAS, in 2000. Has a degree in journalism and social communication. In the diving industry since 2008.