POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsWSVN 7 News MiamiAugust 10, 2026Miami-Dade

Fishermen discover 2,000-year-old Roman shipwreck off the coast of Sicily

Two spear fishermen discovered an ancient Roman transport vessel containing hundreds of amphorae approximately three miles off the coast of Mazara del Vallo. The Sicilian Regional Superintendency of the Sea and the Carabinieri military police have secured the site for further archaeological research and protection.

archaeologyhistorymaritimeSicilycultural heritage
Read the full story at WSVN 7 News Miami

Why It Matters

The discovery provides new historical data regarding ancient Mediterranean trade routes and civilizations, with the site now under state protection to prevent looting and allow for scientific study.

Key Facts

  • The shipwreck dates back to between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC.
  • The vessel is located approximately three miles off the coast of Mazara del Vallo, Sicily.
  • The wreck sits at a depth of 46 meters.
  • The site contains hundreds of Dressel 1A type amphorae used for wine and olive oil transport.
  • The debris field measures over 20 meters (66 feet) in length and 6 meters (20 feet) in width.
  • The site includes two lead anchor stocks and other structural materials.
  • The Carabinieri military police have secured the area to prevent potential looting.
  • There are currently no plans to raise the entire ship, though some artifacts may be recovered for study.
  • The discoverers will receive special state recognition for the find.

Who's Mentioned

locationMazara del Vallo“Location off the coast where the wreck was found.”other20“Length of the amphorae heap in meters.”organizationSicilian Regional Superintendency of the Sea“Organization responsible for the site.”other46“Specific depth of the wreck in meters.”other50“Maximum depth of the wreck in meters.”personAlessandro Giuli“Culture Minister who commented on the discovery.”other66“Length of the amphorae heap in feet.”personIgor Bisulli“Spear fisherman who discovered the wreck.”organizationCarabinieri“Military police unit protecting the site.”personGiacomo De Mola“Spear fisherman who discovered the wreck.”other40“Minimum depth of the wreck in meters.”