Archaeologists from the International Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Croatia (ICUA) have uncovered true treasures aboard a trading ship that sank in the 16th century. However, the most valuable find among the cargo is considered to be rare copper pipes.
What the Researchers Revealed
The vessel, armed with three English iron cannons, sank off the southern coast of Istria, near Cape Kamenjak. It likely fell victim to a storm, which ultimately led to its demise.
According to a report from the underwater archaeologists, the ship was carrying various goods, including ceramic dishes, colorful glass beads, and red glass bowls. During a recent dive, the team discovered a cargo of copper pipes aboard the sunken vessel. In those distant times, when the ship sailed the seas, these pipes were extremely rare and valuable, as reported by ILFScience.
Researcher Luka Bekić from ICUA informed Croatian Radio and Television that more than ten of these pipes were found. They were likely transported in sections and assembled at their destinations.
Archaeologists discovered inscriptions on the pipes indicating their places of manufacture, including Strasbourg (France) and Leiden (Netherlands). One of the best-preserved pipe samples bears the inscription: LVGDVNY BATAVORVM, which is the Latin name for Leiden.
“Until now, no pipe from these cities has been known or preserved anywhere in the world,” the ICUA experts stated.
After examining the cargo and details of the sailing ship, the scientists concluded that the vessel was most likely Dutch and engaged in trade between Leiden, Venice, and Constantinople. However, this conclusion is not definitive. Archaeologists will need to spend several more years studying the cargo and the ship’s archives to provide broader and more convincing information to the scientific community.
In addition to the cargo, wooden structures and blocks, as well as pieces of rope, have been preserved on the ship. The archaeologists also came across three cannons, which will remain on the seabed until future expeditions determine the best way to safely retrieve them.
Currently, researchers are employing digital methods, including photogrammetry, to document the segments of the ship that have already been surveyed. Ultimately, this technology will help model the scene of the wreck that occurred here many years ago.