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NewsWSVN 7 MiamiAugust 10, 2026Miami-Dade

Divers discover 2,000-year-old Roman shipwreck off the coast of Sicily

Two spear fishermen discovered an ancient Roman transport vessel containing hundreds of amphorae approximately three miles off the coast of Mazara del Vallo. The Sicilian Regional Superintendency of the Sea and the Carabinieri cultural protection unit have secured the site for further research and documentation.

archaeologyhistorymaritimeSicilycultural heritage
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Why It Matters

The discovery provides new historical data regarding ancient Mediterranean trade routes and the cultural exchanges between civilizations during the 2nd and 1st centuries BC.

Key Facts

  • The shipwreck dates back to between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC.
  • The vessel is located approximately three miles off the coast of Mazara del Vallo, Sicily.
  • The wreck lies at a depth of 46 meters (151 feet).
  • The cargo consists of hundreds of clay amphorae, primarily of the Dressel 1A type, used for wine and olive oil.
  • The debris field measures over 20 meters (66 feet) in length and 6 meters (20 feet) in width.
  • The site includes two lead anchor stocks and other lead structures.
  • The Carabinieri have secured the area to prevent potential looting and facilitate study.
  • There are currently no plans to raise the entire ship, though some artifacts may be recovered for research.
  • The discoverers will receive official state recognition for reporting the find.

Who's Mentioned

locationMazara del Vallo“Coastal town near the shipwreck site.”organizationSicilian Regional Superintendency of the Sea“Government body responsible for managing the archaeological site.”personAlessandro Giuli“Culture Minister who confirmed the discovery.”personIgor Bisulli“Spear fisherman and diver who accompanied the discovery.”organizationCarabinieri“Military police unit tasked with cultural protection.”personGiacomo De Mola“Spear fisherman and diver who discovered the wreck.”