World’s oldest shipwreck found off Turkish coast

Archaeologists have discovered what they believe to be the world’s oldest shipwreck off Turkey’s coast, dating back around 4,400 to 4,700 years to the early Bronze Age, when Egypt’s Great Pyramid of Giza was being built.

The wreck was found near Kekova Island, off Antalya, at a depth of 30 metres. Although the ship’s wooden structure has disappeared, more than 30 clay storage vessels, known as amphorae, and three stone anchors remain on the seabed.

Researchers estimate the ship was about 10 metres long and used for commercial trade across the Mediterranean Sea.

The expedition was led by Professor Hakan Öniz of Akdeniz University. As no wooden parts survived, researchers determined the wreck’s age by comparing the vessels’ shapes and designs with similar pottery found in Egypt and the Middle East.

“By comparing the decorative techniques, we can say with certainty that our shipwreck dates to the early Bronze Age,” Öniz said.

Divers have recovered the vessels, which are now being carefully preserved to prevent further deterioration.

-AJM