More than 400 objects, models, films, photographs, and interactive screens. This is what Memory to the Sea – Diving into the heart of underwater archaeology offers. Scheduled on the occasion of the 50the anniversary of the creation of the Drassm (Department of Underwater Archaeological Research), this exhibition presents relics from archaeological sites in the French maritime public domain and beyond, spanning from the Bronze Age to the Second World War.
The event provides a particular opportunity to admire some of the great discoveries made in our national waters. The Mediterranean is obviously in the spotlight with amphorae from the Grand Congloué excavations (Riou archipelago). This was the first study in the world of an ancient deposit, conducted in the 1950s by the famous « Mousquemers » (Cousteau, Dumas, Taillez). You will also see the sextant of the steamer Dalton, whose carcass has been resting at the Planier lighthouse since 1928, and relics salvaged from the wreck of the steamer Le Prophète (Var). The Atlantic is not forgotten with showcases dedicated to the contents of corsair ships from Saint-Malo, as well as the wrecks of the Normandy landings. Freshwater is also represented, with the bust of Caesar (ancient port of Arles).
A fascinating journey through time, Memory to the Sea will delight divers and history enthusiasts until May 28, 2017. Note that the brand new humanoid robot specialized in underwater exploration, Ocean One, was presented during the inauguration of the exhibition.
More information at memoirealamer.marseille.fr.
Olivier Clot-Faybesse
N. B.: The cover photo was taken during excavations at a depth of 90 meters of the wreck of Louis XIV’s flagship La Lune, by Drassm. © Osada/Seguin/Drassm