Roman amphorae discovered off the coast of Camogli

Carabinieri divers have recovered ancient Roman amphorae from the waters of Punta Chiappa, near Camogli, within the Portofino Marine Protected Area. The discovery occurred at a depth of approximately 40 to 45 meters during training exercises conducted by the Carabinieri Subaquatic Nucleus of Genoa.

Initial mapping revealed 29 amphorae concentrated in a small area within rock crevices, many of which are fused to the seabed by mineral concretions. Among the finds was an intact “Dressel 1” type amphora. Two particularly exposed artifacts were recovered to ensure their protection.

The site holds significant historical value as it coincides with a “ghost wreck” first identified in 1959 by Duilio Marcante, a pioneer of Italian diving. Marcante had previously observed amphorae wedged in the rocks, a finding documented in archaeological proceedings in 1961. The recovery was coordinated with the Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape for Liguria.