From May 25th to 29th, 2026, the University of Zadar’s Department of History will host the 7th International Conference of the Mediterranean Maritime History Network (MMHN) in Croatia. Continuing a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, this quadrennial event stands as a cornerstone for scholars worldwide, dedicated to exploring the maritime history of the Mediterranean and its global interconnections.
The 2026 edition offers a unique opportunity to present groundbreaking research, exchange insights, and discuss the evolving trends that define the study of the “inland sea.”
The core mission of the event is to build a truly inclusive network and to bridge the two shores of the Mediterranean, bringing together researchers from all continents bordering the basin. By fostering international and interdisciplinary dialogue, the conference seeks to enhance the collective knowledge on the sea as a unifying element that connects cultures and economies on a global scale.
The conference builds upon a modern re-interpretation of Frank Broeze’s definition of maritime history, proposing a holistic framework rather than a fragmented study.
To understand the sea’s profound influence on land-based history, the program proposes five analytical categories that explore the human-sea relationship in different facets:
- On the Sea: Exploring the technical and human dimensions of life afloat, including seamen, ship evolution, navigation techniques, maritime trade, naval warfare, and piracy.
- Around the Sea: Focusing on the social and economic fabric of coastal life, specifically maritime communities, port cities, islands, shipping-related businesses, and the growth of maritime tourism.
- In the Sea: Investigating the sea as a physical environment and a source of life, with a focus on fishing practices, marine resources, and environmental history.
- Because of the Sea: Analyzing the systemic impact of the maritime world, including global transport systems, entrepreneurial networks, the rise of maritime empires, and the role of national and international maritime institutions.
- About the Sea: Delving into the cultural and symbolic representation of the sea through heritage, ideology, maritime myths, poetry, and the enduring impact of the ocean on the arts.
By examining the interconnections between these five dimensions, the 7th MMHN Conference aims to provide a vision of the Mediterranean as a dynamic space of continuity and change, where the water has fundamentally shaped the path of history, facilitating the massive-scale global exchanges and where, together with the maritime heritage, it continues to unite different cultures.
More Information
https://conference.unizd.hr/mmhn2026/