An ancient Greek ship that sank 2,000 years ago provided a treasure trove of artifacts.
The shipwreck was discovered off the small island of Antikythera, and included antiquities such as tablewear and a giant bronze spear, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution reported.
The wreck was first discovered way back in 1900 by sponge divers. After the initial discovery a number of stunning findings were made, including "bronze and marble statues, [jewelry], furniture, luxury glassware, and the surprisingly complex Antikythera Mechanism," the Institution reported. The excavation abruptly ended after the nearly 200-foot dive caused two divers to pass away of the bends and two to be paralyzed.
Brendan Foley of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and Theotokis Theodoulou of the Hellenic Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities have now returned to the site to see what artifacts were left behind. The team created a 3-D map of the site using stereo cameras mounted on an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). The findings reveal that the ship is larger and better preserved than previously believed.
"The evidence shows this is the largest ancient shipwreck ever discovered," says Foley. "It's the Titanic of the ancient world."
The team also recovered a table jug, beautifully crafted bedframe leg, and the impressive bronze spear. The artifact was too heavy to be used as a weapon, and was most likely part of a statue involving a warrior and chariot. The ancient shipwreck is believed to have been carrying luxury Greek items from the coast of Asia minor to Rome and most likely sank when it was smashed into the side of the Antikythera Island's cliffs during a violent storm.
The archaeological team plan to continue excavating the site next year in hopes of discovering even more ancient artifacts.
"We have a lot of work to do at this site to uncover its secrets," Theodolou said.
