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.
Kustsites can include archaeological remains, historic ports and shipwrecks, coastal fortifications, and littoral landscapes such as
Management is usually conducted by a mix of heritage agencies, coastal authorities, universities, and local communities,
However, kustsites face challenges from coastal erosion, sea level rise, development pressure, and data fragmentation. Advances