Explore Shipwrecks

Search our database of historical shipwrecks around Sri Lanka

Underwater Cultural Heritage

Preserving and exploring Sri Lanka's maritime history

National Shipwreck Database

National Shipwreck Database of Sri Lanka

A comprehensive digital resource documenting 109 wreck sites around Sri Lanka, including 103 shipwrecks and six aircraft remains. The database provides detailed information on each site's name, history, depth, and legal status.

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Maritime Archaeology Unit

Maritime Archaeology Unit

The Maritime Archaeology Unit (MAU) was established in 2001 in Galle under the Central Cultural Fund to research, document, and preserve Sri Lanka's underwater cultural heritage through scientific exploration and conservation.

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Shipwreck Biodiversity

Shipwreck Biodiversity

Shipwrecks serve as artificial reefs, fostering unique marine ecosystems. Our database documents the environmental biodiversity surrounding these sites, including species information and conservation status.

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Shipwreck Database Statistics

Discover the extent of Sri Lanka's documented underwater cultural heritage

109
Total Wrecks
53
Historical Wrecks
31
Protected Sites
24
Avg. Depth (m)

Interactive Map

Explore shipwreck locations around Sri Lanka

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Explore Our Features

Discover the many tools and resources available in our database

Interactive Map

Explore shipwreck locations with our interactive GIS map featuring geospatial referencing and filtering options.

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Maritime Timeline

Discover the evolution of maritime archaeology in Sri Lanka through an interactive timeline from the 1960s to present.

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Story of Godawaya

Learn about the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known wreck in the country and Asia-Pacific region, dating back 2,100 years.

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Dashboard

Access visualized data and analytics about shipwrecks including administrative areas, access restrictions, and historical periods.

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Publications

Access research publications, articles, and studies related to maritime archaeology and underwater cultural heritage.

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Researchers

Connect with the researchers and experts in maritime archaeology and underwater cultural heritage in Sri Lanka.

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Discover Shipwreck Biodiversity

Explore the unique marine ecosystems that thrive around shipwreck sites. Learn about the diverse species and their conservation status.

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Our Partners

Organizations collaborating on the National Shipwreck Database project

Central Cultural Fund
Maritime Archaeology Unit
Institute of Archaeology and Heritage Studies
Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands