Italian divers recently uncovered a 2,100-year-old Roman shipwreck near Sicily. The shipwreck contained hundreds of ancient clay jars, known as amphorae, likely used to transport wine. This discovery has been labeled by Italy’s Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli as ‘one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years.’
The shipwreck was found approximately three miles off the coast of Mazara del Vallo, at a depth of about 150 feet. Divers from Palermo’s police cultural heritage protection unit made the discovery after receiving a tip from local fishermen.
A tweet from Italy’s Ministry of Culture highlighted the significance of the discovery: ‘A Roman wreck from the 2nd-1st century BC has been discovered off the coast of Mazara del Vallo, with hundreds of amphorae. One of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years,’ the tweet read.
Underwater fisherman Giacomo De Mola posted about the discovery on Instagram. He explained how he noticed something resembling a rock on his underwater scanner while on his boat. Despite imperfect visibility, he decided to investigate further. ‘Below me was a vast expanse of amphorae,’ De Mola said in his post, which included video footage of the site.
De Mola reported the finding to the Superintendent of the sea of the Sicilian Region immediately. The ship, believed to measure around 21 meters in length and six meters in width, primarily carried Dressel 1A amphorae. These amphorae are known for their tall, cylindrical shape, suitable for transporting wine.
Witnessing the ancient relic after centuries is described by De Mola as an indescribable experience: ‘It is hard to explain what it feels like to be among the first human beings, after almost twenty centuries, to see that place again.’