Underwater and Maritime Archaeology in Latin America and the Caribbean

The waters of Latin America and the Caribbean are rich with archaeological sites, including coastal settlements, defensive forts, freshwater sources, fishing-related activities, navigational aids, anchorages, harbours, ports, shipbuilding sites, shipwrecks and survivor camps. Tragically, treasure-hunting has had a deep impact on these maritime cultural resources, especially on shipwrecks. In the last 20 years, archaeologists have been fighting the battle against these treasure hunters in an attempt to preserve these resources as a source of cultural heritage, rather than allow them to be viewed solely as a means for financial reward. Case studies written primarily by Latin American and Caribbean archaeologists demonstrate exciting and cutting edge research, conservation, site preservation, and interpretation. As a result, this groundbreaking book documents the emerging research interests of maritime archaeologists in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Margaret E. Leshikar-Denton serves with the Cayman Islands National Museum. Initiatives include research exhibitions, a shipwreck register, a maritime heritage trail, shipwreck preserves, and advocating legislation. She has worked in the Caribbean, Mexico, United States, Spain and Turkey. Chair of the SHA UNESCO Committee, and a research associate with Institute of Nautical Archaeology, she also serves on the ICOMOS-ICUCH and ACUA. Pilar Luna Erreguerena is head of the underwater archaeology area of the National Institute of Anthropology and History and is the pioneer of Mexican underwater archaeology. She has directed several projects in marine and continental waters. She is a member of the SHA UNESCO Committee, ICOMOS-ICUCH, ICOMOS Mexico and ACUA.