Museo Nacional de Arqueología Subacuática (ARQVA)

The Museo Nacional de Arqueología Subacuática (ARQVA) in Cartagena explores underwater archaeology and submerged cultural heritage. Its programme joins a public museum with a national research centre. Research, conservation, restoration, and protection accompany displays that bring underwater discoveries into public view. Architect Guillermo Vázquez Consuegra designed the building for Cartagena’s port. Much of ARQVA lies below the old port platform, linking the building’s form with submerged archaeological remains. A broad ramp leads visitors downward into the museum. Above the quay, a long opaque research block and an angular skylight define a public forecourt beside the waterfront. The angular skylight clearly marks the galleries below. A temporary exhibition room reaches toward the quay through a large window, bringing maritime light into the museum. The ARQVATEC laboratory houses conservation and restoration work. Its documented activities include objects connected with the Phoenician shipwreck Mazarrón II. Writing workshops have explored ancient Phoenician alphabets. Cartagena’s active port supplies the museum’s working setting. Together, the research centre, galleries, laboratory, ramp, and quay create a museum about submerged heritage.