“It’s hard to explain what it feels like to think that we’re among the first humans, after nearly twenty centuries, to see that place again,” Giacomo de Mola stated about the shipwreck discovery. De Mola was part of the team that uncovered this significant find. Hundreds of clay jars known as amphorae, along with lead anchor stocks and other artifacts, were found inside the wreck.

De Mola mentioned that these artifacts could have originated from different parts of the ancient world. Some are likely North African amphorae, and others might be Neo-Punic amphorae. This discovery offers valuable insights into ancient trading routes. According to Simon Stoddart, a professor of archaeology at the University of Cambridge, it could also help construct an ancient risk map of the Mediterranean. The ship dates back to the first or second century.

The Italian Ministry of Culture will further study the shipwreck, in conjunction with previous findings across the Mediterranean. This effort aims to provide a clearer understanding of the ancient maritime world. Stoddart, who was not directly involved in the discovery, noted the significance of the shipwreck’s depth. Its deep location makes it both remarkable and relatively rare.

However, Stoddart emphasized the challenges involved in recording and retrieving materials from such depths. Specialist equipment is required, and visits to these depths are brief. Due to the site’s sensitivity, the location must remain confidential until excavation logistics are fully assessed.

Police are planning to further document the site. They aim to establish appropriate protective measures. Their goal is to preserve the historical artifacts found at the seabed and eventually make them accessible to the public.

For de Mola, this discovery was profoundly personal. “This time, we didn’t just find a shipwreck. We found a piece of our history,” he expressed.