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Off the coast of Calabria, a shipwreck approximately 2,400 years old with 300 amphorae was discovered. Many of them were used to transport wine. Their shapes suggest that they were produced in the Greek colony of Magna Graecia in present-day Southern Italy and Sicily. The Italian heritage protection authority describes the find as one of the most significant in recent years. Wine was one of the most important export goods of these city-states. The artifacts provide experts with important information about maritime trade in the Mediterranean at that time. This allows for the reconstruction of trade relations between the various regions of the Mediterranean. They may also reveal new insights about wine production.
The wreck and the amphorae were already discovered in 2023 during preliminary investigations for an offshore wind farm, which is now being built at a different location. The research team has now published initial findings. They are preparing for the recovery and conservation of the cargo. For this purpose, each individual amphora is systematically recorded and samples are taken to preserve them as intact as possible.
(al; Image: Italian Ministry of Culture)
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