Archaeologists amazed by ancient shipwreck off island of Vis

(Illustration)

A remarkable archaeological discovery has been confirmed in the waters off Komiža, near the island of Vis.

At a depth of 30 to 50 metres, researchers have uncovered the remains of a Greek ship dating back to the 4th century BC – the period when the Greeks founded their colonies Issa (Vis) and Pharos (Hvar).

Although the wreck was initially found last year, experts from the Underwater Archaeology Department of the Croatian Conservation Institute have now confirmed the extraordinary significance of the find.

“When we first dived at the site, we had a strong feeling this could be something special,” diver Marko Lete told HRT.

“We found a coin that is still being analysed, but the surrounding pottery already pointed to the 4th century BC. That makes this one of the oldest shipwrecks ever discovered in the Adriatic.”

As the team continued their painstaking work, more incredible artefacts began to surface – fine Hellenistic pottery, personal belongings, human remains, and a remarkably well-preserved hull.

Jurica Bezak, lead archaeologist and senior conservator from the Croatian Conservation Institute, emphasised the exceptional condition of the ship’s wooden keel and the cargo it once carried.

“The site has no true comparison in the region. The luxury ceramics and the well-preserved lead-plated wooden structure are simply astonishing,” said Bezak.

The level of craftsmanship is impressive, particularly for the time. Lete highlighted the precision of the ship’s construction.

“It is incredible to see how clearly the structure is preserved. Some items emerging from the silt look as though they were made yesterday,” he added.

The ship was transporting supplies for the newly established colony of Issa, including amphorae, fine ceramics, containers filled with oil, spices, and processed food – offering valuable insight into the life and trade of early Greek settlers on the island.

“This discovery is not only important from a historical and archaeological point of view, but it will also enrich the cultural offering of Vis,” Bezak noted.

“The artefacts will eventually be displayed in the island’s museum, bringing long-term benefits to the local community – which is also a vital part of our work.”

The ongoing research, expected to take several more years, is being conducted by the Croatian Conservation Institute in cooperation with several local diving clubs and the Vis Heritage Museum.

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