26 Roman amphorae raised from 1,400m off Formentera

Twenty-six Roman amphorae recovered from 1,400 metres below the sea south of Formentera are now at the archaeological store of the Archaeological Museum of Eivissa and Formentera (MAEF). The research vessel Miguel Oliver brought up the find by chance this week during a fishing operation. It also recovered 17 boxes of broken ceramic material.

The jars are Dressel 20 amphorae, Roman vessels used to transport oil. Many carry seals and markings that could provide important clues when specialists study them.

The Miguel Oliver was working on the Medits campaign, an international programme studying Mediterranean marine ecosystems and fisheries resources. The Spanish Institute of Oceanography and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food coordinate the programme.

From deep water to the museum store

Balearic authorities first established that the discovery had been made in waters under Spanish state control. The Underwater Heritage Service of the Ministry of Culture then authorised the objects to be held temporarily at the MAEF.

Museum staff will draw up an inventory and assess the condition of every piece. Finds of amphorae at sea are common around the islands, particularly in waters off Formentera, but the regional government says this group stands out for its size, condition and exceptional depth.

Kept wet on board

The crew kept the amphorae constantly wet with a hose before the museum took them over, helping to keep their condition stable. The material is especially sensitive after being under water.

At the MAEF, specialists have started removing salt and stabilising each amphora in suitable water tanks. Work continues on Saturday and Sunday, with the aim from next week of making the find stable enough for permanent storage at the museum.

Topics: Agriculture · Culture · Tourism · Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com