Antique artefacts found near Hvar island

Underwater archaeologists have found and brought to the surface ancient artefacts. The discovery was made on 31 October 2020, during a dive conducted in the waters surrounding the Paklian Islands group, near Havar.

From the information available, we know that three objects have been found, including late antique wine amphorae. The discovery was made by Dr Ivan Cvitković and Dr Ante Žuljević of the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, during fieldwork carried out on invasive species found in the area.

-- Advertisement --

The age of the excavated vessels was tentatively determined to be between the 3rd and 5th centuries. It was also noted that the interior of the amphorae had been coated with resin so as to best seal the porous vessel walls.

The excavation process was organised and carried out under the supervision of Tei Katunarić, who is not only an underwater archaeologist, but also a lecturer at the University of Split. The company Kantharos d.o.o from the island of Hvar, which specialises in archaeological research and the preparation of photographic and photogrammetric documentation, also provided its support.

Exploring the site we came across two further vessels which are well preserved. The first is a table jug, while the second is used for straining wine. Exploring the bottom in this area we also came across many fragments of amphorae. The aim of our work was to inspect the area thoroughly and try to find a complete amphora or even a shipwreck. However, we will have to make another attempt and look even deeper to see if the amphorae have rolled somewhere further away,” said Tea Katunarić.

This is another great archaeological find in Croatian waters. In recent months we have already reported, among others, on finding of interesting artefacts from 2000 years agoor scanning and creating a 3D image of the wreck full of ancient amphorae, which you can read about below in the 13th issue of DIVERS24 magazine.

Photo: Kantharos