Archaeologists diving near Kekova Island off southern Turkey have stumbled upon something extraordinary—a shipwreck that’s been resting on the seabed for around 4,700 years, making it the oldest ever found. The discovery, made at a depth of about 100 feet, included several ancient storage jars called amphorae, which date back to a time when trade was just beginning to flourish across the Mediterranean.
These amphorae, likely used for carrying olive oil or wine, offer a peek into the lives of ancient sailors and the connections between distant lands. One jar, however, stands out with unique marks and holes, suggesting it might have been used for making cheese or butter. Researchers think this could mean sailors brought goats along for milk, adding a personal touch to their long journeys.
The excavations were led by Hakan Öniz from Akdeniz University, who first spotted the wreck four years ago. At first, they thought it was much newer, but after reading about similar amphorae found near the Giza pyramids in Egypt, they realized its true age. With help from amphorae expert Karin Sowada, the team confirmed it’s indeed the world’s oldest shipwreck.
Clay analysis shows the amphorae were made in the Jordan Valley and have been found in places like Egypt, Troy, and Crete, highlighting the extensive trade networks of the time. The ship was probably sailing from the Levantine coast to Troy or Crete when it sank, offering valuable insights into ancient maritime history.
