2,000-year-old shipwreck and nested ceramic discovery

A 2,000-year-old shipwreck was found on the coast of Adrasan, Türkiye, with a cargo full of ceramic goods. Located at a depth of 120 to 150 feet, the ship sinks so neatly that thousands of nesting bowls, plates and pots are still completely piled up.

The plates and bowls are in good condition, their original colors and characteristics are preserved with the help of unusual protection techniques: they are coated with original clay. There have been no other examples of this technology and complete shipments that have proved their effectiveness. Because many ceramics survived their original locations, they provided valuable insights into the production, packaging and transportation of consumer goods from ancient times.

This time the shipwreck and others’ choice will find a new home in the future Mediterranean underwater archaeology museum. Construction began this summer. After the excavation is completed, a portion of the wreckage site and its ceramic clusters will be opened for the diving tourism industry.