An ancient Roman shipwreck, estimated to be more than 2,000 years old, has been discovered off the coast of Sicily. The vessel, measuring approximately 69 feet long and 20 feet wide, was found near the town of Mazara del Vallo.
Italian police were alerted to the wreck by a fisherman, leading to specialist divers investigating the site at a depth of around 150 feet. The shipwreck was located among hundreds of large ceramic containers, known as amphorae, which were used to transport goods such as olive oil and wine in ancient times.
Italy's Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli described the find as "one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years." He stated that the wreck dates back to the second or first Century BC.
Giacomo De Mola, the fisherman and free-diver who discovered the wreck, was surveying the seabed when his scanner indicated what he initially thought was a large rock. Upon closer inspection, he realized it was a shipwreck.
De Mola shared his experience on social media, calling it "the most incredible discovery of my life" and noting the presence of "countless marine life" living among the amphorae. He added, "The sea never ceases to amaze us. This time we didn't just find a wreck, we found a piece of our history."
Officials have stated that the area is now under investigation, and experts are working to uncover further details about the shipwreck's history.