Ancient wreck found in Turkey

In the coastal waters surrounding Turkey, archaeologists have found a 17th century wreck carrying a cargo of Dutch pottery. The discovery was made in the area of the ancient city of Limantepe (Kalzomenai in Greek). Preliminary findings indicate that the vessel belonged to the merchant fleet of the Ottoman Empire.

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The finding of the remains of a ship sailing from the Netherlands, is another such discovery in the surrounding waters. Exploration work began 13 years ago and, according to scientists, it was a period rich in great finds. The area is currently being explored by a group of 20 underwater archaeologists, led by Turkish professor Mr Hayat Erkanal of Ankara University.

“We tentatively estimate that the latest find contains around 1,000 pieces of Dutch pottery. The vessel itself was not very lucky. Most likely only part of it was hidden under the surface of the bottom and thus from the destructive influence of light and oxygen,” explains Prof Erkanal and adds:

“Now we have to act quickly to properly secure the site with the remains of the wreck. The main threats are the nets of fishermen working in the area and looters. The find itself is outside the search area, so we will want to get the artefacts out as soon as possible.”

As Limantepe was already known in ancient times, the exploration and excavation work will allow the preparation of a unique exhibition covering the entire range of vessels that have sailed in the surrounding waters over the centuries. It is not known when the research will be completed, because as the archaeologists point out, something new is discovered every minute.

Source: xray-mag.com