2,100-Year-Old Roman Shipwreck Discovered Off Sicilian Coast

Italian divers have uncovered a 2,100-year-old Roman shipwreck near Sicily. This ancient vessel was laden with hundreds of amphorae, which are clay jars historically used to transport wine. According to Italy’s Culture Minister, Alessandro Giuli, this discovery ranks as a significant underwater archaeological find.

The wreck emerged about three miles from the Mazara del Vallo coastline. Divers from Palermo’s cultural heritage protection unit located the ship, believed to date between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. They discovered it approximately 150 feet underwater after fishermen provided a tip.

Scoperto al largo di Mazara del Vallo un relitto romano del II-I sec a.C., con centinaia di anfore.

An Instagram post by diver Giacomo De Mola detailed his experience. He used an underwater scanner from his boat, initially mistaking the find for a rock. Yet, he decided to explore further. De Mola described the discovery as “the most incredible” of his life. Despite poor visibility, he approached the site and discovered a vast expanse of amphorae.

De Mola immediately alerted the Superintendent of the Sea of the Sicilian Region. The Italian Ministry of Culture’s video shows the shipwreck laden with ancient amphorae. It’s believed to be more than 2,000 years old.

The ship, as reported locally, measured 21 meters in length and six meters in width. It mainly carried Dressel 1A amphorae, characterized by their tall, cylindrical shape, primarily used for transporting wine.