Two 2,600 year old shipwrecks have been discovered between Saranda and Porto Palermo by the Albanian-American underwater expedition operating in Albanian waters since last year now.
Archaeologists describe the objects brought to the surface from the wrecks as “rare finds.” A tile and two Corinthian amphorae of varying sizes were brought to the surface and more detailed results are expected following their analyses, but they do indicate the presence of a larger haul.
The two ships that were carrying this cargo date back to the 6th and 4th Centuries before Christ, respectively. This rare discovery for the world of Mediterranean archaeology could allocate an important position to Albania related to the study of ancient means of navigation.
The ship from which this discovery was made, bears the same name as the Greek Hero of Mythology, Hercules, and is fitted out with contemporary photometric and underwater, digital relief registering equipment.
The “Albania 2008” Expedition is the outcome of an agreement between the Institute of Archaeology, Ministry of Defence and the RPM American Nautical Foundation. The expedition costs $25.000 per day.
