Oldest Bronze Age merchant shipwreck discovered off Turkey

Archaeologists have uncovered the wreck of a merchant ship dating back between 4,400 and 4,700 years off the coast of Kekova Island in Antalya province, southern Turkey, in what is described as the oldest discovery of its kind in the Mediterranean.

The wreck lies at a depth of around 30 meters below the sea surface. The ship, estimated to have been about 10 meters long, is believed to have transported cargo across the Mediterranean during the early Bronze Age.

The excavation team reported finding three stone anchors and more than 30 ceramic amphorae, which were historically used for storing and transporting goods. However, the ship’s wooden hull has not been found.

Analysis of pottery and dating the wreck

The researchers said the age of the wreck was determined by analyzing the shapes of the ceramic vessels and comparing them to similar finds from Egypt and the Middle East. Examinations also revealed shiny, sticky residues on some of the containers, likely remnants of materials such as olive oil.

Historical significance and similar finds

The research team believes the ship was sailing from the eastern Mediterranean toward the ancient city of Troy or the island of Crete, reflecting trade routes between regional civilizations at the time.

The Kekova wreck is considered older than the Dokos shipwreck off Greece, which dates back around 4,200 years, offering new insights into the history of seafaring and trade among ancient Mediterranean cultures.