Ancient shipwreck off Israel's coast alters maritime history

It was found about 90 kilometres off the coast of Israel. It went to the bottom more than 3,000 years ago. Finding and conducting an initial survey on the wreck lying nearly 2 kilometres below the water’s surface brings surprising conclusions from scientists.

The underwater find that scientists are studying off the coast of Israel is an ancient Canaanite trading ship. The Israeli Antiquities Authority (IAA), which is handling this treasure, has announced the retrieval of the first two amphorae out of hundreds of such objects found in the ship’s hold.

The wreck was discovered by accident. A year ago, employees of the Energean-E&P company, which searches for underwater gas deposits, came across it. Sensitive sonars detected it. Now, thanks to sampling devices, scientists can delve into the mystery of ancient sailors.

This is a fantastic discovery for scientists. Jakob Sharvit from the IAA emphasizes that it is one of the oldest maritime units found at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea. Thanks to the preliminary examination of the ship's contents, it is already known that it carried mass-produced goods such as olive oil, wine, and other agricultural products.

Scientists argue that their analyses could revolutionize contemporary understanding of ancient navigation and trade techniques. The findings are evidence of the advanced navigational skills of ancient sailors and their commercial acumen.

Ancient sailors navigated open waters boldly and skillfully. This sheds new light on their navigational abilities and geographical orientation.

– This is a history-changing discovery. Finding so many amphorae on the deck of one ship indicates significant trade connections between their place of origin and ancient lands of the Middle East located along the Mediterranean coast – emphasizes Sharvit.

Scientists are pleased that despite the lapse of 3,000 years, the contents of the vessel have remained practically intact. The ship lies very deep at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea, so waves, sea currents, or human interference did not damage it.

The Canaanite trading ship from around 3,300 years ago must have sunk suddenly. This is evidenced by the complete, intact transport of hundreds of amphorae with various assortments of goods. It looks like scientists will have the chance to examine a “ancient wholesale store” that supplied desirable goods over long distances.