Sicily shipwreck discovery: 2,000-year-old Roman vessel found with hundreds of amphorae

A 2,000-year-old Roman shipwreck has been discovered off the coast of Mazara del Vallo, Sicily, at a depth of approximately 46 meters. The vessel, which likely dates to between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC, was found by spear fishermen Giacomo De Mola and Igor Bisulli during a routine dive.

The shipwreck is approximately 21 meters long and 6 meters wide. It contains hundreds of well-preserved ceramic amphorae, primarily of the Dressel 1A type, which were historically used to transport wine and olive oil. Other artifacts found at the site include two lead anchor stocks and a Neo-Punic amphora.

Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli described the find as “one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries in recent years.” The site is currently being documented by the Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Cultural Heritage and the Sicilian Regional Superintendency of the Sea to establish its exact historical context and implement protection measures.