MARGULLAR project, funded by the Interreg MAC 2014–2020 Programme and dedicated to the protection and enhancement of Macaronesia’s underwater archaeological heritage, has been selected as a finalist for the 2026 European Funds Awards. This initiative recognises projects funded by European funds and highlights their contribution to regional development.

MARGULLAR is competing in the ‘Portugal + European Territorial Cooperation’ category and is also in the running for the ‘People’s Choice’ award (Escolha do Público), which is decided by public vote.

Voting will remain open until 4 November 2026 at 23:59 (Portuguese and Canary Islands time) on the awards’ official website. To vote, simply find the project ‘MARGULLAR – Underwater Archaeological Heritage and Tourism in Macaronesia’ and follow the instructions. The awards ceremony will take place on 5 November in Lisbon, as part of the Mostra dos Fundos Europeus 2026.

You have until 4 November to support MARGULLAR with your vote!

MARGULLAR: cooperation to protect the heritage hidden beneath the Atlantic

MARGULLAR was carried out under the Interreg MAC 2014–2020 Programme. Its main objective was to protect, conserve and showcase the underwater archaeological heritage of the Macaronesian archipelagos, linking the preservation of this historical legacy with the development of sustainable maritime tourism.

Through research, documentation and archaeological conservation work, the project promoted awareness of the cultural heritage lying beneath the waters of the Atlantic, encouraging its dissemination and integration into the diving tourism offerings of the participating territories.

We at the Interreg MAC Programme encourage the public to take part in the vote and to support MARGULLAR’s nomination. Its selection as a finalist highlights the results of territorial cooperation and the role of European funds in the protection and promotion of our shared cultural heritage. It is also an example of how cooperation between the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, Cape Verde and Senegal helps to preserve our cultural heritage and generate new opportunities for sustainable development.

Link to find out more about the project: https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/projects/projects-database/valoriser-le-patrimoine-subaquatique-en-macaronesie_es