Archaeologists identified what they believe to be the world’s oldest known shipwreck off Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Evidence found suggests the vessel sank between 4,400 and 4,700 years ago.
The site lies around 30 meters below the surface near Kekova Island, close to Antalya. While the ship’s wooden hull has disappeared, divers discovered more than 30 ceramic storage jars and three stone anchors across the seabed. Researchers estimate the vessel measured about 10 meters in length.
The vessel’s age was assessed by comparing the shape of its pottery with early Bronze Age examples discovered in Egypt and the Middle East. Some jars still contain residue, which scientists are studying to determine whether the vessel carried olive oil, wine, or tree resin.
The expedition was led by Hakan Öniz of Akdeniz University. Researchers think the vessel may have been traveling from the eastern Med towards Troy or Crete. The vessel previously regarded as the oldest known example is the 4,200-year-old Dokos shipwreck in Greece.
Image by Akdeniz University.
