The wreck of an ancient ship will be brought to the surface

Archaeologists bring to the surface the wreck of the ancient merchant ship Mazarrón II, resting on the seabed near Murcia.

Archaeologists will bring to the surface the remains of a small Phoenician trading vessel known as the Mazarrón II. All because the ancient shipwreck, which is around 2,700 years old, needs to be protected from destruction. Once lifted from the bottom and secured, the object will become part of the Cartagena museum’s exhibition.

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The Mazarrón II wreck measures 8 metres in length and was discovered in 1994. For the past two years it has been the subject of careful research and monitoring by the Ministry of Culture and Sports, which, through the General Directorate of Fine Arts, has finally given the green light for the object to be excavated and conserved.

This unique wreck The Phoenician trading vessel dates back to the 7th century BC and rests on the seabed near Murcia, at a depth of just 3 metres. After the discovery and examination, archaeologists protected the wreck of the Mazarrón II with a special metal structure. All in order to protect it from the tides and the destructive power of nature.

Unfortunately, as a result of a strong storm, the protective metal structure was damaged. Consequently, the team of specialists and experts opted to excavate the wreck of the Mazarrón II. It will then be secured and conserved by specialists. Once the conservation work is complete, the object will be added to the list of museum exhibits.

Researchers have planned a series of international conferences for later this year. These will allow them to work out the best way to excavate, conserve and restore the ancient shipwreck, and to later uncover and open it to the public.

Probably most divers would prefer that sunken wrecks remain where they were found. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to leave them on the sea bottom. Therefore, in some cases archaeologists try to save the monument by bringing it to the surface. This is a long-lasting and very expensive process, but it allows to permanently protect our historical heritage.