Roman shipwreck with 500 amphorae found off coast of Sicily

Italian cultural heritage police, the Carabinieri, discovered a 2,100-year-old Roman shipwreck off the coast of Mazara del Vallo, Sicily, following a tip from fishers. The vessel, found at a depth of approximately 46 meters, was carrying around 500 amphorae, believed to have been used for transporting wine. This discovery, described as one of the most important underwater archaeological finds in recent years, offers insights into ancient Mediterranean trade routes and exchanges. The wreck, measuring about 21 meters long and 6 meters wide, is primarily laden with Dressel 1A amphorae, which are valuable for reconstructing commercial networks from the second and first centuries BC. Further scientific research is planned to date the wreck more precisely, determine its cargo's origin and destination, and protect the site.

Italian divers have discovered an ancient Roman shipwreck off the coast of Sicily, estimated to be over 2,000 years old. The vessel, measuring 21 meters long and 6 meters wide, was found at a depth of 46 meters near Mazara del Vallo. It is laden with hundreds of well-preserved amphorae, suggesting it was used for transporting goods like wine and olive oil. Italy's Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli described the find as one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries in recent years. The shipwreck is believed to date from the second or first Century BC, and its discovery was prompted by a tip-off from fishermen.