Daivings.lv has already written about Kolkas wreck and plans to include it in the list of nationally protected cultural monuments. By the order of the Ministry of Culture of August 6, 2012 no. 6-1-188 The list of state protected cultural monuments includes a shipwreck in the Gulf of Riga opposite the Kolka Evangelical Lutheran Church. For the first time in the history of protection of Latvian cultural monuments, an underwater heritage object is included in the list of cultural monuments protected by the state. By gaining the new status, the wreck has become a real archeological monument of national significance "Kolka wreck I" (because researchers have also discovered the remains of another historic ship in the area). The order on the inclusion of the object in the list of state protected cultural monuments enters into force today, on August 22 - after publication in the newspaper "Latvijas Vēstnesis".
The shipwreck dates back probably to the 17th century and is one of the oldest wooden sailboat wrecks known in the territorial waters of the Republic of Latvia. It has preserved constructions (housing, separate parts, fastening elements) and equipment.
The supervision and preservation of the unique cultural monument will be ensured in cooperation with the Inspectorate, the State Border Guard and the Latvian Maritime Administration.
Kolka wreck I was discovered already in 1992. In 1999, its research expedition was carried out. In 2011, at the request of the Inspectorate, the Underwater Cultural Heritage Association carried out a repeated survey of “Kolka Wreck I”, diving and recording its conservation status in detail. Thanks to the mentioned research, which was performed using modern technologies, the Inspectorate had the opportunity to evaluate and make a decision important for the protection of Latvia's underwater cultural heritage.
This summer, on behalf of the Inspectorate, the Underwater Cultural Heritage Association is carrying out a survey of territorial waters near Jūrkalne, where, according to the information at the disposal of the institution, the remains of culturally and historically valuable objects are possible. The first results of the study will be published during the European Heritage Days 2012 - September 8, 2012 at 12.00 in Jūrkalne Folk House, where the event “Cultural heritage of Jūrkalne and its surroundings from the Stone Age to the present day” will take place.
Photo: Publicity photo.
