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About Us

The Underwater Archaeological Research Group (GRASM) was founded in 1972 by Serge Ximènés, an exceptional diver with an impressive career. A former member of COMEX, Serge was the third highest-ranked MF1 diver in the world, a former military officer, a sea rescuer, and President of the CMAS International Archaeological Commission. He also directed the hyperbaric department at the Résidence du Parc clinic for 42 years. His scientific and technical experiences, including an 11-day saturation mission, led him to create GRASM to supervise underwater archaeological research, a field that was still relatively unstructured at the time.

Serge Ximenes
Ancient amphorae

GRASM has trained divers capable of reaching depths of up to 100 meters to explore and document wrecks and historic sites. Some of its most notable projects include:

  • The discovery of an ancient dump dating from the 3rd-4th century BC;

  • The Saracen wreck of "Plane 3";

  • The Roman port of Laurons in Martigues;

  • The Roman wreck loaded with tiles from the Calanque de l'Âne in Frioul.

Over the course of five decades, GRASM has contributed to the discovery and study of numerous sites, resulting in 13 scientific publications. Its discoveries, such as those made in Anse du Pharo or on the Tiboulen de Maïre wreck, have enriched our understanding of the Marseille region's maritime past.

Today, GRASM, perpetuating Serge Ximènés's legacy, focuses its activities on recreational and professional training. Drawing on his experience in underwater archaeology, he will develop an archaeology training module in the coming years as part of the Bb (underwater archaeology) program.

Over the years, GRASM's work has marked the history of archaeology in France, with major discoveries that continue to fascinate maritime history enthusiasts.

For several years now, and in order to ensure the sustainability of the center's activities, Katia, Serge's daughter, has been ensuring its legacy with a structured team focused together on preserving the biodiversity of the underwater environment and respecting the fauna and flora.

Below you can find various press or scientific articles about us:

Ministry of Culture
underwater
Provence
Marsactu
Radio France
Open editions
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