Hellenistic shipwreck discovered off the coast of Vis, Croatia

Underwater archaeologists and divers have discovered a Hellenistic shipwreck in Gnjilna Bay near Komiža, located off the Croatian island of Vis. The Croatian Conservation Institute (HRZ) announced the find, which includes a six-meter section of a keel, numerous Greek pottery vessels, animal bones, and a coin from the ancient city of Pharos.

Preliminary dating by the HRZ suggests the wreck dates back to the 4th or 3rd century BCE, approximately 2,300 years ago. The site contains fine Greek pottery, including a kantharos (a two-handled wine cup), some of which feature ownership marks or graffiti. The discovery was made possible through collaboration between the institute and local dive centers.

Prior to the full excavation, the site had only yielded fragments of Corinthian B amphorae, which were historically used by Greek traders to transport oil and wine. The research is being led by Jurica Bezak of the HRZ Department of Underwater Archaeology.