Archaeologists have uncovered the well-preserved remains of an ancient Greek merchant ship off the coast of Ispica, Sicily. The vessel is believed to date from the 6th to 5th centuries BC, making it over 2,600 years old and among the oldest Greek wrecks located in the central Mediterranean.

Discovering the wreck

In July 2025, underwater explorers identified the ship about 6 nautical miles off Sicily’s southeastern coast. The wreck rests at a shallow depth of 12 metres in a marine zone protected as part of the Di Vittorio Botanical Coast Reserve. The site’s anaerobic seabed conditions have ensured exceptional preservation.

Remarkable preservation

In a rare find, the remains of the ship’s wooden mast and portions of ancient rope have survived—materials that typically decay over time. Experts believe the cords may have been preserved through mineralisation or microbial activity. Such intact organic artefacts are seldom seen in Mediterranean wrecks of this age.

Historical importance

Researchers suggest the vessel likely carried amphorae or commercial goods and was part of the extensive trade network connecting Greek colonies in Sicily with mainland ports like Athens and Rhodes. The discovery promises new insights into Greek shipbuilding techniques and ancient Mediterranean commerce.

Next steps

Plans are underway for a detailed photogrammetric survey and sonar mapping to document the wreck’s structure. Divers may also recover small artefacts for further analysis, though much of the site will remain undisturbed in situ to preserve its integrity.