2,100 Years Underwater: Ancient Pottery Found Near Antalya
2,100 Years Underwater: Unique Ancient Pottery Found off Türkiye's Coast
📍 Underwater archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery off the coast of Türkiye, near Kumluca in Antalya Province. A sunken ancient ship carrying thousands of ceramic vessels has been discovered on the seabed of the Mediterranean Sea.
Key Details of the Discovery
- Depth: Excavations are being carried out at a depth of 42 to 55 meters.
- Variety: Archaeologists have identified 122 types of vessels, including plates, bowls and specialized tableware for fish, soup and nuts.
- Historical value: According to Türkiye's Ministry of Culture, the pottery was produced in the area of modern-day Hatay. During the 1st century BC, it was considered a luxury product and was highly valued in Rome.
How Did the Pottery Survive for More Than 2,000 Years?
Many of the vessels have survived in remarkably good condition thanks to an ingenious ancient packing method.
Before being transported, the pottery was carefully packed into wooden crates and separated with clay. This method effectively protected the fragile vessels during the shipwreck and helped preserve them on the seabed for more than two millennia.
The ancient packing technique acted almost like a protective layer around the vessels, helping to prevent them from breaking during the shipwreck and subsequent centuries underwater.
A Ship Bound for Rome?
Researchers believe the ancient vessel may have been heading toward Rome when it encountered a storm and sank.
The discovery provides researchers with valuable information about ancient trade routes, maritime transportation and the circulation of luxury tableware across the Mediterranean.
Underwater archaeological research at the site is continuing.
The discovery near Kumluca adds another fascinating chapter to the long history of the Mediterranean coast of Türkiye, where ancient maritime routes connected different parts of the Mediterranean world.
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye.
Image generated using artificial intelligence.
