Kustsites

Kustsites is a term used in coastal heritage management and maritime archaeology to denote designated locations along coastlines that are recorded for their historical, cultural, geological, or ecological significance. The concept emphasizes systematic documentation, assessment, and monitoring of coastal sites to support preservation and sustainable use. While usage varies by country, kustsites generally share criteria such as historical value, integrity, research potential, and vulnerability to natural or human threats.

Documentation typically involves GIS mapping, standardized metadata, aerial and drone imagery, field surveys, and archival research. Data are often stored in national or regional inventories and may be integrated into broader coastal management systems to guide planning, zoning, risk assessment, and conservation measures.

Kustsites can include archaeological remains, historic ports and shipwrecks, coastal fortifications, and littoral landscapes such as dune systems, beaches, and salt marshes that hold cultural significance. They may also cover living cultural practices linked to the coast, such as traditional fishing sites.

Management is usually conducted by a mix of heritage agencies, coastal authorities, universities, and local communities, with international guidelines from organizations like UNESCO and ICOMOS informing standards for recording, protection, and access. Public involvement and transparent data sharing are increasingly emphasized.

However, kustsites face challenges from coastal erosion, sea level rise, development pressure, and data fragmentation. Advances in remote sensing, digital archiving, and community archaeology are shaping how kustsites are identified, assessed, and protected, enabling informed decisions in coastal planning and heritage protection.