Roman shipwreck with 500 amphorae found off coast of Sicily
Archaeologists have discovered a 2,100-year-old Roman shipwreck off the coast of Sicily containing approximately 500 amphorae. The find is considered a major historical discovery that provides insight into ancient Mediterranean trade routes.
Why it matters
This discovery offers valuable archaeological evidence regarding the commercial networks and cultural exchanges of the Roman era.
Ancient Roman pottery discovered in shipwreck off Sicilian coast – video Archaeology Roman shipwreck with 500 amphorae found off coast of Sicily Discovery of 2,100-year-old vessel hailed as ‘one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years’
Prefer the Guardian on Google A 2,100-year-old Roman shipwreck carrying about 500 amphorae has been discovered 3 miles off the coast of Mazara del Vallo in Sicily.
Italy’s cultural heritage police, the Carabinieri, investigated the wreck with the help of divers and underwater cameras after receiving a tip-off from fishermen. The vessel was found at a depth of about 46 metres (151ft) and was carrying hundreds of amphorae – ancient two-handled ceramic jars with a narrow neck – thought to have been used mainly to transport wine.
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