Page 51 - Manual for Activities directed at the Underwater Cultural Heritage

heritage are subject to careful consideration and authorization by competent authorities. Moreover, these activities should be undertaken for the public benefit, in pursuance of a significant contribution to protection, to knowledge and enhancement. Benefits accruing from activities should be shared, as should be the heritage.
The principle of sharing assumed a fundamental importance in regulating the protection of under- water cultural heritage from the beginning. The 2001 Convention, including the Rules of its Annex was elaborated in the belief that “cooperation among States, international organizations, scientific insti- tutions, professional organizations, archaeologists, divers, other interested parties and the public at large is essential for the protection of underwater cultural heritage” (Preamble). The principle of sharing is made operational through the directives on public access (Rule 7) and international cooperation (Rule 8).
Public access
 © PROAS - INAPL. Interpre- tive sign close to the shipwreck of the cargo vessel Colomba, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina. Although the site is neither covered by the UNESCO Convention nor the Argentinean legislation, it was decided to
erect the sign with the purpose of creating awareness on the maritime history of the area. This was an initiative of the Underwater Archaeology Program of the National Institute of Anthropology and the Municipality of Puerto Madryn, Chubut Province, Argentina.
Rule 7.
Public access to in situ underwater cultural heritage shall be promoted, except where such access is incompatible with protection and management.
Heritage is protected for its public interest and its unique value for humanity. It should be enjoyed by as many people as possible. For this reason, Rule
It is preferable to allow for public access because:
• Heritage has a unique value for humanity;
• Access contributes to appreciation and awareness;
• Indirectly, access contributes to:
o Better understanding and knowledge,
o Better protection.
50
General Principles