O. F. Gollcher and underwater archaeology

By:  George E. Camilleri

During the last three years of his life Olof Frederick Gollcher (1889-1962) took an interest in the archaeological possibilities of underwater diving. He was anxious to encourage Maltese divers to include an archaeological interest in the pursuit of their hobby. His contact with the Sicilian pioneer, the Marchese Pier Nicola Gargallo, led to the formation of the International Institute of Mediterranean Archaeology and its Malta branch. He coordinated several activities and also provided essential logistic and financial support to the fledgling Maltese underwater archaeological scene.