New life for underwater treasures: Funding for the museum of underwater archaeology and Baltic fisheries in Łeba

Investing in the future: Stage III of the Łeba project

Located near the mouth of the Łeba River as it flows into the Baltic Sea, the museum of underwater archaeology and Baltic fisheries is set to gain a unique permanent exhibition through the next phase of its development. Construction work for stage II concluded in December 2024, and the newly acquired funding – PLN 38,727,760 – paves the way for work to begin in 2025, with completion slated for 2027.

- The project includes the creation of modern exhibition stations, installation of lighting, interior finishing, and multimedia synchronization, explains Szymon Kulas, acting director of the National Maritime Museum in Gdańsk.

Key features will include structural supports for large-scale exhibits, such as boat masts or a 25-meter steel fishing cutter already placed inside the building. Plans also encompass artifact conservation, the purchase of 3D documentation equipment, and climate control systems.

An exhibition telling the Baltic’s story

The permanent exhibition in Łeba will blend a chronological narrative with thematic explorations of underwater archaeology and Baltic fisheries. Visitors will journey through over a millennium of maritime history, from the 10th to the 21st century. The early medieval section will spotlight wrecks recovered from Puck Bay, highlighting the shipbuilding techniques of the Slavs and Scandinavians. Meanwhile, the fisheries section will be dominated by the aforementioned steel cutter – the museum’s largest exhibit.

- Until now, limited storage and exhibition space kept many finds hidden. This project will finally bring them to light, says Dr. Marcin Westphal, deputy director for substantive matters at the NMM.

The display will also cover topics like offshore wind energy, maritime rescue, and the conservation of underwater artifacts, offering a comprehensive look at the region’s maritime legacy.

EU funding: Culture as a driver of progress

The funds come from the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate, and Environment 2021-2027 program, which supports culture and heritage preservation. The total project cost stands at PLN 59,438,930, with the grant covering a substantial portion of the expenses.

- This is a breakthrough moment. The new museum in Łeba will attract history and archaeology enthusiasts, serving as an inspiration for future generations, Kulas adds. - Beyond enriching the region’s cultural offerings, the investment will boost its tourism and educational potential.