Archaeologists identify 1887 Italian shipwreck off Marbella coast

Underwater archaeologists have uncovered new evidence suggesting a shipwreck off the coast of Marbella, Spain, is the Italian merchant vessel Garigliano. The ship, a three-masted brig, sank in 1887 while traveling from Marseille to Buenos Aires carrying construction materials.

The Andalusian Institute of Historical Heritage (IAPH), through its Underwater Archaeology Center (CAS), completed a 15-day intervention in the Cabopino area. Researchers have documented 34 meters of the vessel's structure, which is estimated to have been approximately 45 meters in length.

Analysis of the naval architecture confirms the wreck is a transoceanic merchant ship from the late 19th century. The investigation revealed the ship ran aground with its bow facing the beach and a significant list to port. Further dives are scheduled for 2027 to continue the ongoing investigation.