Evidence of what may be world’s oldest shipwreck found in underwater excavations off Turkish isle

Evidence of what may be the world's oldest shipwreck has been discovered off the coast of Kekova, Turkey. Three stone anchors and some 30 amphorae dating to the Early Bronze Age, approximately 4,400 to 4,700 years ago, were uncovered. Turkish Tourism and Culture Minister Mehmet Ersoy announced the find on X/Twitter. The amphorae shed light on ancient maritime trade along Anatolia's coasts. One amphora with markings may have been used as a cheese or butter churn, indicating Bronze Age sailors made food during long voyages. Residue analysis suggests olive oil, wine, or tree resins, but no definitive conclusion is cited.

Evidence of what may be the world's oldest shipwreck was discovered off the coast of Kekova, Turkey, Turkish Tourism and Culture Minister Mehmet Ersoy announced on X/Twitter. Three stone anchors and some 30 amphorae were uncovered. The amphorae date to the Early Bronze Age, approximately 4,400 to 4,700 years ago, shedding light on ancient maritime trade along the coasts of Anatolia. Prof. Hakan Öniz of Akdeniz University, who led the expedition, told the BBC: 'Comparing the decoration techniques… we can definitely say our wreck is Early Bronze Age. This is 100%.' One amphora features nine distinct markings and two holes, and is thought to have been used as a cheese or butter churn, indicating Bronze Age sailors may have made their own food during long voyages. Some amphorae contained a glossy residue; Dr. Karin Sowada of Macquarie University told the BBC it could be olive oil, wine, or tree resins, possibly from reuse of the jars. The article reports the discovery in a factual, sourced manner, with no overt manipulation patterns detected.