Italian divers discovered a Roman cargo ship off Sicily, over 2,000 years old, buried 46 m (150 ft) below sea level.
The 21‑m long ship was found surrounded by countless barnacle‑crusted amphorae — tall ceramic jars that once stored wine, olive oil or grain. Hundreds of jars were still intact, providing a snapshot of ancient trade.
Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli called the wreck “one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years.”
The find was first noted by fisherman Giacomo De Mola, who tapped into his sonar and saw a mysterious “rock.” When he investigated, he realized it was a ship, not a stone, and filmed the striking scene where marine life mingles with the relics.
“This is, without a doubt, the most incredible discovery of my life.” – Giacomo De Mola
Specialist police divers from Italy’s Carabinieri Art Squad have secured the wreck to protect its ancient treasures while scientists examine its structure and cargo.
Similar ancient wrecks are believed to litter the Mediterranean seabed. In 2023, a 1st‑ or 2nd‑century BC vessel was found off Rome, and in 2018 a Greek merchant ship from 2,400 years ago was discovered off Bulgaria’s coast.
