Archaeological markers below the lagoon waters

This paper focuses on the documentation of some archaeological case studies in the northern part of the Venice lagoon, an extreme and at the same time vulnerable ecosystem. The study emphasises the challenges of working underwater in this environment and the necessity of incorporating both traditional and modern digital techniques. Through the use of different technologies, such as Multibeam Echo Sounder, topographic surveys with the total station and DGPS, and photogrammetry, it is possible to reach a high level of detail in the documentation and analysis of the archaeological contexts. The data management with GIS software allows an efficient and easier consultation and the effective dissemination of the research results. Thanks to the synergic use of these tools, it is possible to produce an entire overview of underwater archaeological sites, which implies enormous advantages for their understanding and analysis of archaeological markers. The methodology we tested in this highly complex environment turned out to be crucial also in monitoring the state of conservation and degradation of underwater archaeological heritage.