A 2,000-year-old shipwreck filled with ancient pottery was found in Turkey
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Khalid Al Mansoor
- . July 9, 2025
- . Update: July 9, 2025 6:39 pm
A shipwreck off the coast of Antalya in Turkey was located under the Mediterranean Sea at a depth of 150 feet with a hoard of ancient red ceramics providing insight into maritime trade in the Late Hellenistic and Early Roman antiquity. The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which announced the location of the shipwreck on June 28, characterised the discovery as “one of the most important archaeological finds in recent years.” Dating between the 2nd century B.C. to the 1st century A.D., many of the hundreds of plates, trays, and bowls discovered are in excellent condition. Experts state that the ceramics were able to survive from antiquity because of the ancient shipping techniques. “We found hundreds of plates, trays, and bowls, coated with raw clay, and nested together to protect them during the trip,” said Culture Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy. The minister added that the red color and surface characteristics of the plates, trays, and bowls were both visible, providing a rare glimpse into ancient production and packaging methods.
In a rare instance, Minister Ersoy participated in the dive himself to witness the discovery firsthand. “This is a momentous discovery not only for our country, but for the universality of humanity’s cultural heritage,” he indicated. The Turkish Ministry provided images showing divers delicately maneuvering and studying the artifacts on the seabed. According to Ersoy, the discovery is important for science and increases Turkey’s possible representative abilities in underwater tourism. Ersoy stated that around 400 ancient shipwrecks are estimated to lie in the area between the ports of Patara and Mersin on the southern coast of Turkey, and researchers from the area are conducting research in the area. “Our professors are spending time in these areas, exploring these discoveries as both scientific projects and tourism opportunities,” he stated.
With such a well-preserved and valued discovery, this find will open the past and engage the world in Turkey’s underwater archaeological heritage.
