The Dominican Republic has officially inaugurated the 31st International Congress of Caribbean Archaeology (IACA/AIAC), the region’s premier scientific forum dedicated to the study of the Caribbean’s Indigenous cultures and colonial-era history.
Held in Santo Domingo’s Colonial City through July 18, the congress has brought together 237 researchers from 23 countries and territories to present the latest archaeological findings and examine new perspectives on the Caribbean’s pre-Columbian societies and viceregal period. The event is taking place at the auditorium of the Dominican Telecommunications Institute (Indotel) Cultural Center.
International Collaboration in Caribbean Research
The congress is organized by the Academy of Sciences of the Dominican Republic in partnership with the García Arévalo Foundation, Centro León, the Guahayona Institute, and the Casa del Cordón Taíno Cultural Center. Additional support comes from the Ministry of Culture, the Vice Ministry of Cultural Heritage, the General Directorate of Museums, the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic, Banco Popular, and other cultural organizations.
Over the course of the event, specialists will deliver 97 presentations across 15 thematic symposia, covering recent advances in archaeological science and heritage research throughout the Caribbean.
New Technologies Transforming Archaeology
The scientific program highlights emerging research methods, including ancient DNA analysis, isotopic and starch residue studies, archaeozoology, archaeobotany, underwater archaeology, and digital documentation techniques such as photogrammetry and 3D modeling.
Researchers representing internationally recognized institutions—including Harvard University, the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, the University of Copenhagen, the University of Minnesota, and Leiden University—are participating in presentations and discussions throughout the congress.
Exploring Dominican Heritage Beyond the Conference Hall
In addition to academic sessions, participants will take part in a series of cultural and field activities designed to showcase the Dominican Republic’s archaeological heritage. These include lectures at the Academy of Sciences, guided visits to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, a workshop at Centro León in Santiago, and a field survey of archaeological sites within the Cabo Samaná Natural Monument.
These activities provide researchers with opportunities to examine important historical sites while fostering collaboration between local and international specialists.
Strengthening the Dominican Republic’s Role in Caribbean Heritage
Organizers said the congress reinforces the Dominican Republic’s position as a regional center for archaeological research and international scientific cooperation. By bringing together experts from across the Caribbean and beyond, the event also supports ongoing efforts to preserve, study, and promote the region’s rich Indigenous and colonial heritage for future generations.