In an effort to preserve Sri Lanka’s rich nautical history, the Colombo U.S. Embassy and the Central Cultural Fund’s nautical Archaeology Unit have partnered to conserve and document the Godawaya wreckage, which is the earliest known shipwreck in the Asia-Pacific area. This program, which is supported by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, highlights the long-standing collaboration in archaeological research and cultural preservation between the United States and Sri Lanka.
The ancient Godawaya shipwreck off the coast of Hambantota was the site of an inspection dive conducted by U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung, Senior Archeology Officer of the Central Cultural Fund’s Maritime Archaeology Unit Rasika Muthucumarana, and Heidi Hattenbach, Counsellor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy. This project is a component of a larger one.Declaring, “Being able to see the Godawaya shipwreck up close at 33 meters below the ocean’s surface was an incredible experience that shed light on Sri Lanka’s significant history as a pivotal maritime hub,” Ambassador Chung emphasized the significance of the trip. In order to preserve Sri Lanka’s unique cultural legacy for future generations and to advance knowledge of the country’s historical significance in international maritime trade, the United States is pleased to sponsor this endeavor.
Nearly 200 relics, including metal objects, delicate carnelian beads, and clay ceramics, have been saved by the Maritime Archaeology Unit (MAU) thanks to financing support from the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. As the project moves forward, the MAU is on schedule to create a comprehensive 3D model of the whole shipwreck site—a significant accomplishment that could transform Sri Lanka’s maritime archaeology and cultural preservation fields. After the year ends, the objects recovered from the shipwreck will be on display in Colombo. After that, they will be kept in a permanent exhibit at the Maritime Archaeology Museum in Galle, where visitors and Sri Lankans alike can view and learn about the rich history of the nation.Additionally, the AFCP will provide funding for an educational initiative that will give children and schools near the diving site the chance to learn from the Godawaya project.
