ZAGREB, 19 May (Hina) - The Department of Archaeology at the University of Zadar has completed this year’s research at the submerged Neolithic settlement in Soline off the island of Korčula, and British documentary filmmaker Bettany Hughes, joined the Zadar archaeologists, the university reported.

The university says that the final days of the research work in 2025 were particularly special due to a visit to the site paid by renowned British historian, broadcaster and documentary filmmaker Bettany Hughes, known for her television documentaries on history and archaeology.

Hughes dived at the underwater archaeological site of Soline and experienced the true magic of maritime archaeology, from excavation and the so-called 'mammuting' to uncovering the remains of a late Neolithic settlement, said the project leader Mate Perica.

The project leader explained that the site lies about four metres below the sea surface, where previous excavations uncovered the remains of a settlement approximately 7,000 years old.

Among the discoveries is a road that once connected the submerged prehistoric settlement with the coast of the island of Korčula.

Systematic research is being carried out as part of the Croatian Science Foundation project "Submerged Neolithic Sites in the Adriatic Sea along the Croatian Coastline." This year's excavations are funded by the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds, as well as the local associations Lipa rič and Bašćina from Lumbarda.

Alongside the Department of Archaeology at the University of Zadar, experts from the Kaštela City Museum, Dubrovnik Museums (Archaeological Museum), Kantharos Ltd., and others are also participating in the research.