Divers investigating waters off the Greek island of Andros have discovered a shipwreck dating back approximately 2,400 years, carrying hundreds of ancient amphorae. The discovery was announced this summer by Greece’s Ministry of Culture.
Officials reported that a "private individual" alerted them to the wreck, which was located at a depth of between 128 and 144 feet. The cargo consists of hundreds of "pointed-bottom commercial amphorae," with an initial count ranging from 600 to 650.
Amphorae, which are ceramic storage jars, were essential in the ancient world for transporting goods such as wine, olive oil, grain, and other foodstuffs. The amphorae found on this wreck date to the late fifth and early fourth centuries B.C. Archaeologists have identified three distinct types: Mende, Peparethos, and Solokha 2. Officials have not yet disclosed the specific contents of these particular amphorae.
In addition to the jars, archaeologists also recovered part of a lead anchor stock and several stones that may have served as ballast to stabilize the vessel. The find is significant as it "adds to our knowledge of trade and navigation during the Late Classical period," according to a statement from the ministry.
"During the inspection, one amphora of each type was recovered for sampling and study," the statement noted. "Further study of the discovery is expected to provide additional information about both the ship’s cargo and its origin."
The Mediterranean Sea has a rich history as a hub for maritime trade, and it continues to be a site for numerous shipwrecks and archaeological discoveries. Earlier this summer, gold jewelry was found on a 1,300-year-old shipwreck off the coast of Croatia, and last summer, hundreds of well-preserved ceramics were discovered at a 2,000-year-old shipwreck site off Turkey.