Marine archaeologists have found Cyprus’ first antique, an ancient Roman shipwreck. It was found in Protaras, the southeastern coast of Cyprus. Archaeologists have described this latest discovery as the first undistrubed Roman shipwreck to be found in Cyprus’ waters.

The nation’s Department of Antiquities, in a statement, said this is the first undisturbed Roman shipwreck ever found in Cyprus. It was reported by two volunteer divers from the Maritime Archaeological Research Laboratory (MARELab) at the University of Cyprus. It has been reported that the shipwreck was loaded with transport amphorae, which look like large jars, most probably from Syria and Cilicia.

The Classical Art Research Centre describes amphorae as a two-handled pot with a neck that is considerably narrower than the body. It was used for storage of mainly liquids and grains. A group of archaeologists, students and volunteers associated with MARELab are studying and documenting the ancient shipwreck.

shipwreck
The shipwreck dates back to the late eighteenth or early nineteenth century when the U.S. was expanding its trade with the rest of world by sea. Duke University/Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Historians say the Mediterrean island nation of Cyprus has witnessed rich archaeological findings over the years. In 2015, archeaologists made two discoveries, with the first find being a 2,400-year-old tomb, which was full of artifacts, weapons, jewelry, figurines and vessels, in northern Cyprus. The second find was a 1,500-year-old amulet in the ancient city of Nea Paphos.

Cyprus, the only independent Hellenistic monarch, has had a colourful history when Rome annexed it in 58 BC for political and economical reasons. Today, Cyprus is a developed and third-most populous island in the Mediterrean.

RELATED STORIES