Greece’s Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities has discovered an ancient shipwreck off the island of Andros, an archaeological find expected to enrich current knowledge of Aegean trade and navigation during the late classical period.
The shipwreck was located between depths of 39 and 44 metres following a tip-off from a member of the public. The site retains a large portion of its cargo, which consists of approximately 600 to 650 commercial dressel amphorae. The density and preservation of the cargo make the discovery highly significant for studying regional trade networks.
An initial inspection revealed at least three different types of amphorae originating from Mende in Chalkidiki, Peparethos (modern-day Skopelos), and a Solokha 2 type. The varied cargo suggests complex ancient trade routes and extensive product distribution networks. Divers retrieved one sample amphora of each type for research purposes.
Archaeologists also located part of a lead anchor stock and stones at the site, which likely served as the vessel’s ballast. Preliminary dating places the shipwreck between the late 5th and early 4th centuries BC, a period when maritime trade in the Aegean was growing significantly.
According to the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities, further excavation and scientific study will provide valuable information regarding the origin of the ship and its cargo, as well as the shipping lanes connecting the major production and trade hubs of the era.
A team from the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities conducted the site inspection, consisting of diving archaeologist Dionysios Evangelistis, diving antiquities conservator Angelos Tsompanidis, and deep-sea technician Louis Mercenier.
