Belgium has awarded cultural heritage status to 14 shipwrecks dating from the Second World War following research conducted by the Flemish Marine Institute.
There are some 280 shipwrecks on the North Sea bed, according to the Mobility Ministry. Two-thirds of these artefacts date from both the First and Second World Wars.
"Over 55 shipwrecks, each over a century old, have been acknowledged as underwater cultural heritage," stated Director General of Navigation Peter Claeyssens. "Today, 14 Second World War shipwrecks have been added to the list," including ships Bourrasque, Gracie Fields, HMS Grafton and Vorpostenboot V-1302.
The Ministry emphasised that any shipwreck over 100 years old has been automatically recognised as cultural heritage since 2021. "More recent ships can also be recognised if they have significant historical and/or ecological value," the public body added in a statement.
When a shipwreck receives protected status, it is marked as such on official marine charts and "no items can be brought to the surface by divers," the Ministry explained. "Various nearby activities are also banned, such as dredging, anchoring or trawler fishing, as they could damage the wreck."
"These shipwrecks are important reminders of a dark chapter in our history. These precious pieces of heritage must be properly protected to preserve them for future generations," Claeyssens concluded.
