Greece: Ancient Shipwreck Containing Over 600 Trade Amphorae Discovered on Andros


The cargo of an ancient shipwreck was discovered in the waters off the Greek island of Andros during an inspection by the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities of the Greek Ministry of Culture. The artifacts, dating from the late 5th to the early 4th century B.C., include various types of commercial amphorae.

An ancient shipwreck has been discovered in the waters offthe Greek island of Andros (or Andro) bythe Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities of the GreekMinistry of Culture, following a report from a member of the public. The on-site inspection identified the cargo of a shipwreck lying at a depth of between 39 and 44 meters, consisting of pointed-bottom commercial amphorae.

The investigation revealed the presence of at least three different types of vessels: amphorae from Mende (Mendis), Pepareto (Peparithou), and of the Solokha 2 type. During the inspection, three specimens were recovered as samples—one of each type—which can be dated to between the late 5th and early 4th centuries B.C. A fragment of a lead anchor stock and several stone blocks, likely part of the ship’s ballast, were also found in the shipwreck area.

A preliminary estimate indicates the presence of approximately 600–650 amphorae at the site. The discovery provides new insights into trade and navigation during the Late Classical period, offering further data on the cargo carried and its possible origin. The team from the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities of the Greek Ministry of Culture conducting the research consisted of underwater archaeologist Dionysios Evangelistis, underwater conservator Angelos Tsobanidis, and dive technician Louis Mersenier.

Trade amphorae discovered in the waters off the Greek island of Andros. Photo: © Greek Ministry of Culture
Commercial amphorae recovered from the waters off the Greek island of Andros. Photo: © Ministry of Culture of Greece
Trade amphorae discovered in the waters off the Greek island of Andros. Photo: © Greek Ministry of Culture
Commercial amphorae discovered in the waters off the Greek island of Andros. Photo: © Greek Ministry of Culture
Trade amphorae discovered in the waters off the Greek island of Andros. Photo: © Greek Ministry of Culture
Commercial amphorae recovered from the waters off the Greek island of Andros. Photo: © Greek Ministry of Culture

Greece: Ancient Shipwreck Containing Over 600 Trade Amphorae Discovered on Andros
Greece: Ancient Shipwreck Containing Over 600 Trade Amphorae Discovered on Andros



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