1,500-Year-Old Shipwreck Discovered Off Ancient Greek City in Turkey

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Posted on 12/24/2024 9:11:59 PM PST by nickcarraway

Archaeologists have discovered a 1,500-year-old shipwreck near the ancient Greek city of Kydonies, now known as Ayvalık, on Turkey’s Aegean coast. This remarkable find, part of the “Turkish Sunken-Ships Project: Blue Heritage,” sheds new light on ancient maritime trade and the region’s historical significance.

Researchers from Dokuz Eylül University’s Underwater Research Center (SUDEMER) identified the shipwreck located 2.5 miles offshore at a depth of 43 meters.

Led by Associate Professors Harun Özdaş and Nilhan Kızıldağ, the team worked with the approval of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Underwater robotic systems were crucial in locating and studying the site.

Largest plate cargo found in the Aegean and Mediterranean

The wreck, dated to the late fifth century A.D., contained an estimated 10,000 ceramic plates, making it the largest known plate shipwreck ever discovered in the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. The plates, grouped in clusters of 15 to 20, are exceptionally well-preserved due to the wreck’s location in open waters.

The vessel, believed to have been about 15 meters long and 9 meters wide, also contained a small number of amphorae.

Grecian Delight supports Greece

Researchers think the ship likely originated from North Africa or Cyprus, carrying goods from areas such as Syria, Egypt, and North Africa. It was likely bound for ports in Anatolia, Greece, or Italy before sinking near Ayvalık, possibly during a storm.

Evidence of ancient trade networks

The discovery offers valuable insights into ancient trade networks that connected the Aegean and Mediterranean regions. Historical accounts suggest these routes were bustling with the exchange of goods like ceramics, but direct underwater evidence has been rare.

1,500-year-old shipwreck found off ancient Greek city in Turkey

The shipwreck’s location near the ancient Greek city of Kydonies in Turkey highlights Ayvalık’s historical importance as a hub for commerce and culture. The findings illuminate trade practices and underscore the region’s role in facilitating connections between civilizations.

Özdaş said, “This wreck is of great importance, especially because it has remained untouched and preserved in its original state. The variety and quantity of artifacts here represent a significant collection.”

Ancient Greek city of Kydonies

Kydonies (Κυδωνίες), the ancient Greek name for modern-day Ayvalık, has a rich history that dates back to antiquity. The name “Kydonies” comes from the Greek word for quinces, abundant in the area. The city flourished as a center of Greek culture and commerce, known for its olive oil production and trade.

The ancient shipwreck discovered near the shores highlights the coastal area’s long-standing maritime significance and connection to Mediterranean trade networks.

Preservation and future plans Photogrammetric studies have meticulously documented the wreck, revealing its extraordinary cargo preservation. Özdaş stated that the discovery is significant enough to support the creation of a museum.

“We have found enough artifacts to open a museum,” Özdaş said. The discovery of this shipwreck in Turkey is a testament to the importance of technological advancements in underwater archaeology. Efforts actively preserve artifacts and uncover details about the ship’s journey and role in ancient maritime trade.

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1 posted on 12/24/2024 9:11:59 PM PST by nickcarraway

To: nickcarraway

2 posted on 12/24/2024 9:20:08 PM PST by Uncle Miltie ("Israel will just have to ... kill more Christians” - FR's own "nitzy")

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3 posted on 12/24/2024 9:23:05 PM PST by twister881

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