Ancient Shipwreck Unearthed in Croatia’s ‘Game of Thrones’ Harbor

Breaking: Ancient Treasure Ship Believed Found Off Irish Coast

WEXFORD, Ireland – A remarkable discovery has been announced weeks after its initial finding, with archaeologists identifying what they believe to be the remains of the Recovery, an 18th-century treasure ship lost to the depths off the coast of Wexford approximately 240 years ago. The wooden vessel, remarkably preserved on the seabed, offers a tangible link to maritime history and the perilous voyages of centuries past.

The discovery, which has sent ripples of excitement through the archaeological community, highlights the enduring mysteries held within the ocean’s embrace. Shipwrecks like the Recovery are not just ancient curiosities; they are time capsules, offering invaluable insights into shipbuilding techniques, trade routes, and the lives of those who sailed them.the undisturbed state of this vessel for over two centuries before its recent uncovery is a testament to the protective, yet often unforgiving, nature of the marine environment.This finding serves as a poignant reminder of the vast number of vessels still lost at sea, each with its own story waiting to be uncovered. As technology advances, enabling deeper and more extensive exploration, the potential for similar significant discoveries remains high.Such finds underscore the importance of marine archaeology in piecing together humanity’s shared past and understanding the evolution of seafaring and global commerce. The Recovery‘s story, once lost to the waves, is now beginning to be told anew.

What specific types of goods might the amphorae residue reveal about Roman trade routes connected to Dubrovnik?

The discovery in dubrovnik’s ACI Marina

A remarkably well-preserved ancient shipwreck has been discovered during routine dredging work in the ACI Marina of Dubrovnik, Croatia – a location globally recognized as King’s Landing in the HBO series Game of Thrones. the find, announced on July 12th, 2025, is already generating significant excitement amongst archaeologists and maritime history enthusiasts. Initial assessments suggest the wreck dates back to the Roman period,potentially between the 1st and 5th centuries AD. this discovery highlights the rich maritime history of the Adriatic Sea and the strategic importance of Dubrovnik throughout the ages.

What Has Been Recovered So Far?

The excavation, lead by a team from the Archaeological Museum of Dubrovnik and the Croatian Conservation institute, is ongoing.however, several key artifacts have already been recovered, providing valuable insights into the ship’s cargo and construction:

amphorae: Numerous Roman amphorae, used for transporting wine, olive oil, and other goods, have been found intact. Analysis of residue within these vessels will reveal thier original contents and trade routes.

Construction Timber: Sections of the ship’s wooden hull are remarkably well-preserved due to the anaerobic conditions at the seabed. Dendrochronological analysis (tree-ring dating) is planned to pinpoint the ship’s construction date with greater accuracy.

Pottery & Ceramics: Fragments of pottery and ceramic tableware offer clues about the daily life aboard the vessel and the cultural influences present during that period.

Metal Artifacts: Small metal objects, including nails, tools, and potentially personal belongings, are being carefully recovered and conserved.

Possible Anchors: Large stone objects resembling anchors have been identified, though further investigation is needed to confirm their function.

Dubrovnik’s Ancient Significance as a Maritime Hub

Dubragrad, the ancient name for Dubrovnik, has been a vital port city since antiquity.Its strategic location on the Adriatic coast made it a crucial trading center connecting the Roman Empire with the Eastern Mediterranean.

Roman Era: Under Roman rule, Dubrovnik (then Ragusa) flourished as a naval base and commercial hub. The newly discovered shipwreck is a tangible reminder of this period.

Medieval Republic of Ragusa: From the 14th to 19th centuries, the autonomous Republic of Ragusa was a major maritime power, renowned for its skilled sailors and extensive trade network.

Modern Croatia: Today, Dubrovnik remains a significant port and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in its history, culture, and stunning coastal scenery.The harbor’s continued use, even for modern vessels, underscores its enduring importance.

The Shipwreck’s Potential Impact on Archaeological Understanding

This shipwreck offers a unique possibility to study Roman shipbuilding techniques and trade practices in the Adriatic.

Ship Construction: The preserved hull fragments will allow archaeologists to reconstruct the ship’s design and understand the materials and methods used in its construction.

Trade routes: The cargo manifest, as revealed by the amphorae and other artifacts, will shed light on the trade routes connecting Dubrovnik with other parts of the Roman Empire.

Daily Life at Sea: Personal belongings and everyday objects found on board will provide insights into the lives of the sailors and merchants who traveled on this vessel.

Preservation Challenges: The team faces the challenge of preserving the delicate wooden remains, wich are susceptible to decay once exposed to air. Specialized conservation techniques are being employed to stabilize the artifacts.

Conservation Efforts & Future Research

The Croatian Conservation Institute is leading the effort to conserve the recovered artifacts. This involves:

1. Desalination: Removing salt from the wooden remains and other materials to prevent further deterioration.
2. Stabilization: Applying consolidants to strengthen the wood and prevent it from crumbling.
3. Documentation: Creating detailed records of each artifact, including photographs, drawings, and 3D models.
4. Analysis: Conducting scientific analysis of the artifacts to determine their age, origin, and function.

Future research will focus on:

Complete Excavation: Fully excavating the shipwreck site to recover any remaining artifacts.

Underwater Survey: Conducting a wider underwater survey of the ACI Marina to identify other potential shipwrecks.

Comparative Analysis: Comparing the findings from this shipwreck with other Roman-era shipwrecks discovered in the Adriatic Sea.

Tourism & the ‘Game of Thrones’ Connection

The discovery has already sparked increased interest in Dubrovnik’s maritime history. Local tourism officials anticipate a surge in visitors eager to learn more about the shipwreck and its connection to the city’s rich past. The location within the ACI Marina, so closely associated with Game of Thrones*, adds an extra layer of appeal. Guided tours focusing on the archaeological site are being planned, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Dubrovnik’s ancient heritage. The potential for a dedicated museum exhibit showcasing the recovered artifacts is also being explored.