Italian police have revealed the discovery of an ancient Roman cargo ship lying on the seabed near Gallipoli in the Apulia region. The find, made during a routine patrol in June 2025, was kept secret for months to prevent looting.
The Guardia di Finanza, Italy's financial police, detected an anomaly on the seafloor using onboard equipment and sent divers to investigate. They found a large Roman merchant ship, or oneraria, dating from the late Roman period, possibly the 4th century AD. The vessel is believed to have sailed from North Africa.
The wreck is exceptionally well preserved, with parts of the hull intact and a cargo of dozens of ceramic amphorae still visible. These containers held garum, a fermented fish sauce that was a staple of Roman cuisine and a significant trade commodity.
Following the discovery, the site was placed under discreet surveillance, and a strict confidentiality agreement was enforced between police and cultural heritage authorities. Italy's Superior Council for Cultural Heritage has now approved €780,000 (£670,000) for a full scientific investigation and long-term protection.
Archaeologists will conduct a non-invasive survey using photogrammetry and laser scanning to create a 3D digital model of the ship and its cargo. Analysis of the amphorae and hull will help identify production areas, trade routes, and shipbuilding techniques of the late Roman Empire. Officials will later decide whether to recover some amphorae for conservation and display.
