# Underwater archaeology in Antalya

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/underwater-archaeology-in-antalya
> Updated: 2026-09-28T07:54:02.000Z. Sources: 20. Developments: 2.

The Antalya coast has been identified as one of the world’s richest underwater historical sites, containing shipwrecks ranging from the ancient period to World War II. Researcher Mustafa Aydemir has highlighted the region's significance, noting that wrecks such as the Gelidonya and Uluburun shipwrecks serve as ‘treasure-valued time capsules’ for maritime history.

Recent excavations off the coast of Adrasan in Kumluca have yielded specific findings, including thousands of 2,100-year-old luxury ceramics. Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy reported that the cargo contains various forms of tableware, including Rhosus ceramics and Aegean amphorae. The artifacts were found preserved in wooden chests packed with clay, offering new insights into ancient Mediterranean trade routes and luxury dining culture.

Detailed analysis of the Adrasan shipwreck reveals 122 different forms and sizes of plates, bowls, and trays. The cargo primarily consists of ceramics from the Antakya region, specifically those produced in the ancient area of Rhosus. The historical value of these items is underscored by the writings of the Roman orator Cicero, who mentioned ordering Rhosus ceramics for his friend Atticus in 50 BC. To conduct the excavations at depths of 42 to 55 meters, archaeologists are utilizing underwater robots. In addition to the Rhosus ceramics, amphorae believed to be from Aegean islands were also recovered.

## Claims

- Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced the discovery of 2,100-year-old tableware from a shipwreck. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The shipwreck was located in the waters of Adrasan, Kumluca, Antalya, at a depth of 42 to 55 meters. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Archaeologists recovered thousands of ceramic artifacts, including 122 different forms and sizes of plates, bowls, and trays. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The majority of the cargo consists of ceramics originating from Antakya and Rhosus (modern-day Arsuz). (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The ceramics were preserved by being placed in wooden chests with clay between them to prevent breakage. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Amphorae believed to have been produced on certain Aegean islands were also found in the shipwreck. (corroborated by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-28: Adrasan shipwreck discovery reveals 2,100-year-old luxury ceramics

Archaeologists in Adrasan, Turkey, have discovered a 2,100-year-old shipwreck containing thousands of luxury Roman-era ceramics, including items once mentioned in the letters of Cicero.

18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/antalya-shipwreck-discovery-reveals-2100-year-old-luxury-ceramics

### 2026-09-11: Antalya coasts host some of the world's oldest shipwrecks

Researcher Mustafa Aydemir highlights Antalya's coast as a premier site for underwater archaeology, home to ancient shipwrecks like Gelidonya and Uluburun, as well as WWI and WWII era vessels.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/antalya-coasts-host-some-of-the-worlds-oldest-shipwrecks

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Cite as: Underwater archaeology in Antalya. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/underwater-archaeology-in-antalya