In a remarkable finding near Mazara del Vallo, located on the southwestern coast of Sicily, Giacomo De Mola uncovered a Roman merchant shipwreck that has lain dormant on the seabed for about two millennia. De Mola, an underwater fisherman and free-diver, was joined by Igor Bisulli, who significantly contributed to the discovery. The pair reported their observations to Sicily’s Soprintendenza del Mare, the governing body for underwater cultural heritage in the area. Following this, the Carabinieri’s Cultural Heritage Protection Unit in Palermo and its Underwater Unit in Messina became involved to document the location.
What lies beneath
The shipwreck is situated roughly 5 kilometers from the shore, at a depth near 46 meters. Archaeologists have recorded an amphora field on the ocean floor, spanning approximately 21 meters in length, 6 meters in width, and 2 meters in height. These measurements pertain to the cargo rather than the verified size of the hull, as the wooden hull itself has yet to be fully investigated. The cargo appears remarkably intact, featuring hundreds of well-maintained Dressel 1A amphorae, two lead anchor stocks, and another lead structure whose function remains unclear. Dressel 1A amphorae, unique ceramic containers primarily used for the transport of wine, were widely produced in central Italy. They signify the wine trade that facilitated the movement of goods from the Italian peninsula throughout the Mediterranean during the final two centuries of the Roman Republic.
When precisely
The Soprintendenza del Mare assigns the wreck to the 2nd or 1st century BCE, during the twilight of the Roman Republic, a time before the imperial reign under Augustus. By the 2nd century BCE, Rome had already triumphed over Carthage in the Punic Wars, governed Sicily as a province, and monopolized Mediterranean trade routes. The estimated age of about 2,100 years is derived from amphora typology and construction techniques, which may be refined through further examination.
How the discovery was revealed
Alessandro Giuli, Italy’s Culture Minister, characterized the shipwreck as “one of the most significant underwater archaeological discoveries in recent years.” The waters around Sicily, pivotal to ancient Mediterranean shipping routes, have produced a succession of important wrecks throughout the years. This particular wreck is remarkable for the preserved and intact condition of its cargo.
What the amphorae can and cannot reveal
While a cargo of wine amphorae sheds light on trade routes and commercial potential during this era, it does not disclose the ship’s point of origin, owner, or intended destination. Such specifics would necessitate additional research, including meticulous analysis of the amphora stamps and construction, wood used for the hull, and comparisons with other similar wreck sites. At present, the verified information encompasses the location, extent of the cargo field, types of amphorae, and a preliminary date range.
Why this coastal area continues to yield wrecks
The coastline of Mazara del Vallo in Sicily is well-known for significant underwater discoveries. Its geographical position historically made it a vital route for vessels navigating between the Italian mainland, North Africa, and the eastern Mediterranean. Local fishermen and free-divers have frequently reported such finds, as De Mola and Bisulli did in this case.
What occurs with a wreck like this
In Italy, once reported, underwater archaeological sites receive protection, and excavation is conducted under governmental oversight. The procedure typically includes a formal survey to chart the site, selective recovery of artifacts for investigation, and a determination about whether to conserve the wreck in situ or raise portions of it. The current emphasis is on awaiting an official statement from the Soprintendenza del Mare, detailing the survey strategy and a more accurate date range following thorough analysis of the amphorae. For now, this discovery stands as a recent, well-documented find with a preliminary date range.