Vladimir Vorobyov talking about the projects of the Sevastopol Branch (SB) of the RGS. Photo: Yuri Yuganson / SB RGS
On October 7, Vladimir Vorobyov, Chairman of the Sevastopol Branch of the RGS, and Vyacheslav Gladkov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Russia, met at the Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Abkhazia. Vladimir Vorobyov told the diplomat about the research in Crimea and Sevastopol, as well as about the current expedition off the coast of New Athos.
As part of the «Diving Beyond the Horizon: A Course Toward Heritage» project, a diving team is exploring a sunken object at a depth of about 40 meters. According to preliminary assessments by experts, the ship dates back to the period of the First World War and the Civil War. This is evidenced by marks with the coat of arms of the Russian Empire found on the dishes discovered on the vessel. A remotely operated underwater vehicle is used to study the object.
Based on photo and video materials, the research team will have to determine the exact name of the vessel, its original purpose, and the causes of its sinking. The distinctive feature of the project by the Sevastopol Branch of the RGS lies in its comprehensive approach to studying the find.
A detailed 3D model of the ship will be created based on the survey materials. Simultaneously, work with the archives will continue. All the collected information — from drawings to archival records — will be digitized and placed on an interactive map.
Vyacheslav Gladkov noted that this approach makes history accessible to a wide audience. The ambassador also expressed his readiness to support projects aimed at preserving historical memory and strengthening scientific and historical ties between Russia and Abkhazia.