Artifacts > Aegean Shipwrecks

Aegean Shipwrecks

Background

Summary of "Searching for Ancient Shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea"

Introduction

The study details two deep-water archaeological surveys in the Aegean Sea, highlighting the discovery of Hellenistic shipwrecks near Chios and Kythnos islands using marine geological and geophysical methods. The collaboration between the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR) and the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities (EUA) aimed to map the sea-floor and discover ancient nautical heritage.

Survey Methods

The surveys primarily used side-scan sonar integrated with high-resolution sub-bottom profiling to identify and interpret sonar targets accurately. Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and the submersible Thetis were deployed for visual inspections of selected targets.

Discoveries

Significance

The study underscores the importance of integrating side-scan sonar with sub-bottom profiling for effective deep-water archaeological research. The detailed examination of sedimentation rates and geological structures enhanced the accuracy of interpreting sonar targets, reducing the number of unsuccessful dives.

Conclusion

The successful discovery of Hellenistic wrecks using these advanced methods demonstrates the potential for uncovering more ancient shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea. This approach aids in understanding ancient maritime activities and preserving underwater cultural heritage.

Detailed Description of the Chios Wreck

Overview

The Chios wreck, discovered in the strait between Chios and Oinousses islands, is an ancient shipwreck dating to the late-4th or early-3rd century BCE. The wreck lies at a depth of approximately 70 meters on a flat, muddy sea-floor. This site was identified as part of a broader effort to map and explore ancient nautical heritage in the Aegean Sea using advanced marine geological and geophysical techniques.

Key Features

Survey Techniques

Geological Context

Significance

The Chios wreck provides valuable insights into ancient maritime trade and shipbuilding. The concentration and preservation of amphoras offer a snapshot of the cargo and trade goods transported in the Aegean Sea during the late Hellenistic period. The use of advanced survey techniques underscores the potential for discovering and studying ancient shipwrecks in deep-water environments, contributing to our understanding of ancient nautical heritage【27:0†source】【27:1†source】【27:5†source】【27:14†source】【27:15†source】.

Detailed Description of the Kythnos Wreck

Overview

The Kythnos wreck, discovered west of Kythnos Island in the Aegean Sea, lies at a depth of approximately 495 meters. It was identified through a survey conducted in 2005, following the recovery of a bronze statue by a trawler, which hinted at the presence of a shipwreck.

Key Features

Survey Techniques

Sediment and Environmental Conditions

Discoveries and Artifacts

Significance

The Kythnos wreck provides crucial insights into Hellenistic maritime trade and shipwreck preservation in deep-water environments. The successful use of advanced survey techniques demonstrates the potential for discovering and studying ancient wrecks at significant depths, contributing valuable information to the field of underwater archaeology.

Conclusion

The discovery and subsequent study of the Kythnos wreck highlight the effectiveness of integrating side-scan sonar, sub-bottom profiling, and ROV/submersible inspections in deep-water archaeological research. This approach not only facilitated the identification of the wreck but also provided detailed insights into the ancient trade practices and the environmental conditions that have preserved the artifacts.

Sources

Artifacts

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