Top 10

Underwater Archaeology Sites

Top 10 Underwater Archaeology Sites Around the World

http://heritage-key.com/blogs/sean-williams/top-10-underwater-archaeology-sites-around-world

Underwater archaeology may still be in its relative infancy, but that hasn’t stopped it making some of the  world’s biggest recent discoveries. From Cleopatra to ancient plonk, there’s plenty more under the sea than a load of old shipwrecks – though they can be pretty spectacular too. Even Egyptological legend Zahi Hawass is getting  a piece of the action, scouring the Nile for ancient treasure. So we thought we’d strike while the iron’s  wet and bring you a top ten of the world’s underwater archaeology sites. If you think   we’re talking rot, or if there’s anywhere we’ve missed, don’t hesitate to have your say either via the comments box below, our contact page or by emailing me direct. Happy snorkelling!

3. Ventotene, Italy

The tiny island of Ventotene, off the west coast of central Italy, may not seen the obvious candidate for a dramatic archaeological breakthrough. But this June it became the centre of the ancient world, when the Aurora Trust stumbled on five Roman shipwrecks, each with its own invaluable stash of artefacts.  The island was once a safehaven for ships seeking refuge in stormy seas – but it appears some never made it.  Among the quintent’s cargo were fish sauce, mortars, and no shortage of ancient wine. There’s no word on whether the team got their hands on any 2,000-year-old plonk (the term ‘vintage’ doesn’t quite seem enough), but celebrations must have been worth some.