A multi-year underwater exploration near the Greek island of Kasos has unearthed a treasure trove of history. Researchers identified ten shipwrecks spanning thousands of years, offering a glimpse into ancient trade routes and maritime life.
The four-year project, completed in 2023, was a collaborative effort between the National Research Foundation and the Greek Ministry of Culture. Teams of divers meticulously explored depths ranging from 20 to 47 metres, uncovering shipwrecks dating from prehistory to the Second World War.
These submerged vessels carried goods from across the Mediterranean and beyond. Artefacts recovered include an ancient stone anchor, amphorae for transporting liquids, drinking vessels, and Roman-era flasks. Over 20,000 underwater photographs captured the wrecks and their contents, creating a digital record for further study.
The exploration extended beyond shipwrecks, with the first-ever mapping of the Kasos-Karpathos reef and surrounding areas using sonar technology.
This extensive project, funded by various organizations, not only sheds light on the rich maritime history of the region but also provides valuable data for archaeologists, historians, and other researchers.
(Source: Heritage Daily)
