Police officers in Italy, during a routine dive, uncovered a fascinating find: ancient Roman artifacts resting on the seabed after about 2,000 years. These items were discovered off the coast of Porto Rotondo in Sardinia, a Mediterranean island, as reported by Cover Images.

The Sassari Police Headquarters announced the discovery in late August. The officers, stationed in Olbia, Sardinia, were conducting an underwater safety operation when they spotted pieces of ancient terracotta. Their initial find led them to return for a second dive, where they found largely intact vessels.

A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of three intact terracotta artifacts including a transport basin and other smaller items. These finds were documented and handed over to the appropriate Archaeological Superintendent.

Pictures captured police divers examining the seabed with ancient pottery submerged in the surrounding waters. One photo shows an intact amphora nestled among thick seagrass, while another shows a diver inspecting a large vessel encrusted with marine life.

In ancient times, amphorae were commonly used to transport materials like wine, olive oil, and grain. Police stated that these artifacts likely date from the fall of the Roman Republic to the rise of the Roman Empire. According to officials, preliminary analysis suggests they could originate from Lazio, Campania, or the Iberian Peninsula, dating between the second half of the 1st century B.C. and the 1st century A.D.

Experts will conduct further examinations to determine the precise age and origin of these vessels. Researchers aim to understand if these items are part of a larger archaeological site, potentially leading to more discoveries.

Although remarkable, such discoveries occur periodically in Italy. Earlier this year, a Roman merchant shipwreck was found in the Ionian Sea, still carrying amphorae.