Meet the crew of Past Mariners
Our Team
Theofano Moraiti
Founder | Field Archaeologist
Theofano is an archaeologist with an MA in Field Archaeology and Material Culture, with a focus on Maritime Archaeology, from the University of Thessaly, Greece. She specializes in Viking Age shipbuilding and is a certified diver.
Theofano launched the project "Underwater Farers" in 2021 with the aim to create a virtual encyclopedia about maritime archaeology and underwater cultural heritage around the world. In 2024, this project was relaunched as Past Mariners.
Christina Kalliontzi
Archaeologist | Article Writer
Christina is an archaeologist specializing in maritime archaeology, with a strong focus on submerged archaeological sites. She is a certified diver and her research primarily focuses on maritime geoarchaeology, tectonic activity, and the use of GIS technology.
Beyond her professional work, Christina enjoys creating mosaics, jogging, traveling, and delving into the fields of cosmology and astrophysics in her spare time.
Foteini Grizi
Archaeologist | Article Writer
Foteini is a graduate student from the Department of History & Archaeology at the University of Ioannina. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Field Archaeology and Material Culture at the University of Thessaly, with a specialization in Maritime Archaeology.
She is a certified two-star diver and her academic interests revolve around shipwrecks and underwater research. Outside of her studies, Foteini enjoys traveling, participating in excavations, and exploring the depths through diving.
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Despina Athanasiou
Archaeologist | Article Writer
Despina is a graduate from the Department of History, Archaeology, and Social Anthropology at the University of Thessaly. Her academic interests focus on ancient shipbuilding and maritime trade in the Mediterranean.
She has participated in several excavations, both land and underwater, through the University. Beyond her academic pursuits, Despina is actively involved in the diving community, having recently earned her certification as a Dive Master.
Kyriakos Magdalis
Research Technician | 3D Modeling
Kyriakos is an engineer by training, with a Master's in Material Science & Engineering in Ioannina. He works as a research technician for the UK Atomic Energy Authority, a UK government research organisation responsible for the development of fusion energy.
He carries out and designs experiments that will help discover the right materials for science to achieve profitable nuclear fusion. Kyriakos also has a passion for the piano and the drums, and enjoys 3D design, from which his cooperation with the Underwater Farers arose.
Thei Papadopoulou
Graphic Designer
Thei Papadopoulou is a graphic designer currently pursuing a degree in B.E.K Print & Digital Media Graphic Design at AKTO College, Greece. Based in Thessaloniki, she is also a self-taught illustrator.
As a newcomer to the world of design, Thei is eager to challenge herself by acquiring new knowledge and expanding her creativity through her work. She succesfully completed Past Mariner's website design despite her lack of experience in UI / UX.
Despina Nakaktsi
Editor | Proofreader
Despina is a dedicated scholar specializing in Greek literature and classical studies, with an MSc in Semiotics and expertise in Papyrology.
She actively supports educational initiatives in primary and secondary education, contributing by proofreading and editing digital educational texts to ensure accuracy and clarity for students and educators. Despina also applies her editorial skills to enhance scholarly articles in a project focused on maritime archaeology, reflecting her commitment to preserving and interpreting ancient civilizations.
Thomas Iossifidis
Archaeologist
Thomas Iossifidis is an archaeologist and a commercial diver from Athens. He has completed his archaeology diploma at the University of Athens (NKUA) and obtained his master's degree (MA), specialized in maritime archaeology, at the University of Thessaly.
His main interests are maritime, environmental and field archaeology. Since 2009 he has been participating in various underwater archaeological excavations and researches in Greece and abroad. His intention is to use his professional capacity, experience and knowledge as a commercial diver (since 2006) to promote underwater archaeological research
Philip Kamenitsas
3D | Animator
Philip Kamenitsas is a CG Generalist with BSc in Animation Game Art who has experience in various industries such as filming, commercial and gaming industry.
Philip has extensive knowledge in 3D design and 3D implementation for games, web and TV screen. He is a self motivated artist who always seeks to extend his skills and reach highest possible outcome.