Turkey's rich cultural heritage has once again been brought to the forefront as the Kumluca Middle Bronze Age shipwreck, believed to be one of the oldest known shipwrecks in the world, continues to yield significant findings for underwater archaeology. Located off Turkey's southern coast near Antalya, this ancient maritime treasure trove is rewriting history with each new discovery.
A dedicated team of 40 experts, led by the distinguished professor Hakan Öniz, has been conducting underwater excavations in the depths of the Mediterranean Sea. Recent findings have shed light on the ship and its crew, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
Thanks to advanced technology and the use of underwater robots, this intrepid team has successfully recovered a treasure trove of artifacts, including 30 copper ingots, amphoras, and personal belongings that once belonged to the sailors who manned the ship. These incredible items, once hidden beneath the waves, now bear testament to Turkey's prominent role in early history, epic tales, maritime trade, and shipbuilding.
Divers equipped with air tubes have been meticulously extracting these valuable relics from the shipwreck, which sank approximately 3,600 years ago at a depth of around 50 meters (164 feet). Some of these artifacts require a month of delicate work, employing small tools and vacuum devices to ensure their safe retrieval.
Among the most remarkable finds are the copper ingots, which served as currency during the ship's time. These ingots provide insights into Turkey's past and its connections with distant lands. According to Professor Öniz, "This ship, which was probably loaded with copper from mines on Cyprus Island, sank during a storm on its way to the island of Crete, roughly 3,550 to 3,600 years ago. In this context, the Kumluca Middle Bronze Age shipwreck still holds the title of the world’s oldest trade shipwreck."
To ensure the preservation of these historical treasures, all recovered items are subject to a meticulous salt removal process at the Antalya Restoration and Conservation Regional Laboratory. This ongoing work at one of the world's oldest shipwrecks, situated at great depths, underscores Turkey's prominence in the field of underwater archaeology.
The Kumluca Middle Bronze Age shipwreck not only enriches our understanding of the past but also stands as a testament to Turkey's dedication to preserving its cultural heritage. With each new discovery, this ancient shipwreck unveils stories of the past, reminding us of the enduring importance of underwater archaeology in uncovering the secrets of our shared history.
