Divers off Sicily discover ancient shipwreck full of amphorae
Divers near Mazara del Vallo off the coast of Sicily have discovered an ancient shipwreck at a depth of around 46 metres, carrying hundreds of well-preserved amphorae. Italy's culture minister called it one of the most significant underwater archaeological finds in recent years.
Divers off the coast of Sicily, near the town of Mazara del Vallo, have discovered the wreck of an ancient ship carrying hundreds of well-preserved ceramic vessels known as amphorae. In antiquity such vessels were used to transport wine, olive oil and grain.
Italy's Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli described the find as one of the most significant underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years. According to the Culture Ministry, the ship dates back to the 2nd or 1st century BC.
Tip-off from local fishermen
Specialist police divers located the wreck at a depth of roughly 46 metres after receiving information from fishermen. Local media report that the wreck measures about 21 metres in length and 6 metres in width.
The ship was also spotted by Giacomo De Mola, a fisherman and free-diving enthusiast, while he was scanning the seabed. He initially noticed on his sonar what looked like a large rock, but on approaching realised it was in fact hundreds of ancient amphorae.
Writing on social media, De Mola described it as the most incredible discovery of his life, saying it was hard to put into words what it felt like to be among the first people in almost 20 centuries to see the site again. He also shared video footage showing eels, sea bass and other marine creatures now living among the ancient vessels.
