Turkey made public the discovery of a remarkably well preserved wreck, dating from the late Hellenistic – early Roman period, off the coast of Antalya, one of the most popular summer destinations on the Turkish Riviera.
The wreck was found at a depth of 33-46 meters, near Adrasan, in Kumluca district, and is considered by experts a revolutionary discovery in underwater archeology. Its load, consisting of plates, bowls and ceramic trays (photo), remained almost intact after 2,000 years underwater, the authority for promoting and developing tourism in Turkey informed
The wreck, called “ceramic wreck”, transports hundreds of oriental seal ceramic pieces – a fine dishes, with red icing, widespread in the Mediterranean area. The discovery aroused the enthusiasm of the scientific community, due to the excellent state of conservation of the vessels, which present about 25 different models. The ceramic was covered with a raw clay layer for protection during transport and was stored in stacks. This ancient technique allowed to keep the vessels in an almost perfect condition, protected under layers of sand for two millennia. The wreck is considered unique in the world from the point of view of exceptional conservation.
Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, the Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism, who made a special dive to inspect the wreck, said: “The plates and bowls have kept their original color and texture, providing valuable information about the production and packaging techniques used 2,000 years ago.” Ersoy described the discovery as “one of an invaluable value not only for Turkey, but for the entire cultural inheritance of mankind”, mentioning that artifacts are carefully preserved in a regional restoration laboratory.
A new museum dedicated to underwater history
In order to share this remarkable discovery to the world, Turkey will build a Museum of Mediterranean underwater archeology in the Kemer-Udyros area, as previously announced. According to Minister Ersoy, this project reflects the sustainable and future vision of Turkey in the field of culture. The design phase is completed, and the works will start this month. In addition, the Archeology Museum in Antalya will have extended program until 22:00 during the summer, within the “Night Museums” initiative. A special section will be dedicated to underwater archeology to improve the experience of visitors.
In the efforts of conservation of cultural heritage, Turkey has prevailed in recent years as a global leader in the field of archeology. The country declared the year 2024 as the “Golden Age of Archeology”, within the project “Inheritance for the future”, which provides for archaeological research in all four seasons. Thus, the number of excavations reached 765 last year, with the goal of exceeding 800 by 2026.
Valuable discoveries for science and tourism
This extended vision of the conservation of cultural heritage also includes underwater explorations, turning Turkey into a pioneer into marine archeology. In 2025, Turkey launched four excavations by presidential decree, three research led by museums and three other underwater exploration missions, thus strengthening a systematic and supported approach in the field of maritime archeology. Minister Ersoy said: “Only over 400 wrecks have been identified between Patara and Patara. Our researchers work with rigor and intensity in these areas. These discoveries are not only scientifically important, but also offer major opportunities for tourism.”
Each wreck offers a new perspective on Turkey's maritime history. The combination of underwater archeology and the natural beauty of diving places turns Turkey into a global center for marine dive and exploration. The Agee Coast and the Turkish Riviera attract divers from all over the world due to the favorable temperatures all year long, the hundreds of authorized diving centers and experienced instructors.
Among the most popular diving destinations are Kaş (Antalya), located in the top 10; Fethiye and Bodrum (Muğla), where the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea meet; as well as Çanakkale, which houses the underwater historical park. Institutions such as the Museum of Underwater Archeology in Bodrum also play an essential role in presenting these discoveries to the public. The most important of the four recent underwater excavations, the ceramic wreck, is expected to become a major attraction on the world archeology map and an unrighteous destination for depths.
