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CLOSEInternational Recognition for the National Hellenic Research Foundation’s Documentary entitled “Diving in Aegean History”
To further disseminate the significance of underwater archaeology, the film is available on YouTube. We invite researchers, cultural heritage experts, educators, filmmakers, and policymakers to watch the film and explore the fascinating discoveries of archaeological research in the South Aegean.

The National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF) is proud to announce the international recognition of the documentary Diving in Aegean History, which has been screened and awarded at eleven major film festivals worldwide. This eleven-minute short film highlights groundbreaking underwater archaeological research conducted in the South Aegean, unveiling the hidden history of ancient shipwrecks and maritime navigation.
International Film Festival Participation
Throughout 2024, the documentary was screened at the following major international film festivals:
- Firenze Archeofilm (Italy)
- TAC – The Archaeology Channel International Film Festival (USA)
- San Francisco Greek Film Festival (USA)
- AEI Festival – Archaeological, Ethnographic, and Historical Film Festival (Cyprus)
- MFAF – Međunarodni festival arheološkog filma (Serbia)
- RAM Film Festival – Rovereto Archeologia Memorie (Italy)
- FAB! Festival dell’ Archeologia di Bacoli (Italy)
- Festival della Comunicazione e del Cinema Archeologico Sicily (Italy)
- Chania Film Festival (Greece)
- FICAB – Festival Internacional de Cine Arqueológico del Bidasoa (Spain)
- The Arkhaios Cultural Heritage and Archaeology Film Festival (USA)
Three Prestigious Awards
The film received three major distinctions, confirming its contribution to promoting underwater archaeology:
- Best Short Film – Arkhaios 2024 – The Arkhaios Cultural Heritage and Archaeology Film Festival (USA)
- Best Underwater Archaeology Film – The Arkhaios Cultural Heritage and Archaeology Film Festival (USA)
- Educational Award – Festival Internacional de Cine Arqueológico del Bidasoa (Spain)
These accolades highlight the importance of modern audiovisual storytelling and the role of research in showcasing history and cultural heritage. Furthermore, they emphasize the significance of underwater archaeology not only as a field of scientific study but also as a key driver of sustainable development for Greece’s remote islands. By enhancing their visibility, attracting cultural tourism, and shaping new policies for regional growth, underwater archaeology plays a crucial role in strengthening local economies.
Production Team
The documentary was created by the following team of professionals:
🎬 Direction & Cinematography: Stelios Apostolopoulos GSC
🎞 Editing: Despina Kontargyri
🖥 Graphics: Aphrodite Bitzouni
🚁 Aerial Footage: Spyros Papas, Stelios Apostolopoulos, Manolis Lykouropoulos
🎥 Camera Assistant: Theodoros Arsenis
🎧 Sound Mixing: Giorgos Ileidonidis
📽 Production: AORI FILMS
The National Hellenic Research Foundation continues to support pioneering scientific projects that highlight Greece’s rich cultural heritage and reveal timeless aspects of history, from antiquity to modern times. Through strategic collaborations, interdisciplinary initiatives, and funding opportunities, we aim to continue and expand underwater archaeological research, develop innovative activities, and enhance the impact of our research efforts.
To further disseminate the significance of underwater archaeology, the film is available on YouTube. We invite researchers, cultural heritage experts, educators, filmmakers, and policymakers to watch the film and explore the fascinating discoveries of archaeological research in the South Aegean.

Kasos-Karpathos Maritime Archaeological Project
