Ancient Greek Shipwreck Found Off Sicily Reveals Rare Artifacts

Written on 07/17/2025
Nisha Zahid

A 2,500-year-old shipwreck and anchors off Sicily’s coast. Credit: The University of Udine

An ancient Greek shipwreck was uncovered just six meters below the surface off the coast of Santa Maria del Focallo, in the municipality of Ispica, Sicily. The remarkably well-preserved vessel dates back to between the 6th and 5th centuries BCE and is considered one of the most significant finds in the Mediterranean in recent years.

The shipwreck was first uncovered in 2024 during the fifth phase of underwater excavations, with further discoveries made in 2025 as part of the sixth campaign. The excavation is led by the University of Udine’s Department of Humanities and Cultural Heritage, in partnership with the Sicilian Region’s Superintendency of the Sea.

The effort is part of the Kaukana Project, a long-term scientific initiative launched in 2017 by the late Sebastiano Tusa and Massimo Capulli. The project focuses on reconstructing the historical and underwater landscape of Ragusa province by exploring coastal remains near the ancient cities of Ispica, Kaukana, and Kamarina.

Rare preservation of the ship mast and artifacts

During the five-week excavation conducted between May and June of 2025, archaeologists uncovered an unusually intact structure. The team retrieved a mast—a component rarely found preserved in ancient wrecks—alongside black-figure pottery, a section of rope in excellent condition, and a small alabastron, or perfume vessel, inscribed with the Greek word “Ναῦ” (Nau), meaning “ship.”

“With a careful approach, we managed to document new and significant parts of the wreck, such as the mast—which is extremely rare to find preserved,” said Professor Massimo Capulli, who heads the research program at the University of Udine.

The team extended the excavation by two meters (6-and-a-half feet) using a hydraulic suction dredge, clearing the remaining sediment and exposing key elements, including the keelson and one of the ship’s wheels. Much of the wreck had been buried beneath a layer of sand and stone, only beginning to surface in 2024.

3D mapping enhances shipbuilding studies

Researchers recorded the site using direct measurements and photogrammetry, creating a detailed 3D model of the vessel. The digital reconstruction is expected to provide valuable insights into ancient Greek shipbuilding technology, offering scholars a rare opportunity to examine construction methods from the Archaic period.

In addition to the primary site, nearby waters were surveyed for future excavations. Several potential sites were identified thanks to reports by local diver Antonino Giunta, who previously alerted authorities to significant underwater finds in the region.

A deeper understanding of Magna Graecia’s past

Regional officials say the discovery underscores the value of collaboration in archaeological research. Francesco Paolo Scarpinato, Regional Minister for Cultural Heritage and Sicilian Identity, explained that the project clearly shows how collaboration can deepen our understanding of the past.

He added that underwater archaeology, especially, plays a crucial role in uncovering the history of the many civilizations that have inhabited the island over thousands of years.

Scholars believe the Ispica wreck sheds new light on ancient maritime trade and navigation routes in Magna Graecia, offering a rare window into the cultural and commercial networks that shaped the Mediterranean world.