In a remarkable archaeological discovery that blends ancient history with modern tourism, a remarkably well-preserved 2,000-year-old Roman shipwreck has been unearthed just metres from a popular beachfront on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.
The vessel, which sank nearly two millennia ago, was found in the village of Sukošan, a few miles south of Zadar — one of Croatia’s major tourist destinations. Despite its age, the ship’s timbers appear almost pristine, with researchers noting that some planks and frames “look like they were just carved.”
The International Centre for Underwater Archaeology led the excavation, which revealed a 42-foot (nearly 13-metre) vessel, approximately 3.5 metres wide. Divers first suspected a wreck at the ancient Roman port of Barbir after discovering an antique plank with a metal nail in 2020. Five years later, the full extent of the find has now been documented, including a valuable cargo of ancient artefacts.
Among the treasures recovered are coins from the Roman era, one featuring the image of Emperor Trajan, whose reign aligns with the radiocarbon dating of the ship to the first or second century AD. Additional finds include shards of pottery and glass, two complete jugs that were part of the ship’s equipment, and numerous olive pits — suggesting the vessel was transporting olives for processing or sale at the time it sank.
Director Mladen Pešić described the vessel’s remarkable state of preservation. “Many different elements were preserved — keel, planks, frames, ceilings, and many elements of the ship’s upper construction,” he said. “It is quite well preserved; some of the planks and frames look like they were just carved.”
Analysis indicates the ship was built to carry heavy loads over medium-to-long distances, consistent with the commercial artefacts found aboard. Evidence points to it having been docked in the harbour when a storm struck. “As the evidence shows us, the ship was docked in the harbour,” Pešić explained. “It was found just in front of the pier, so we suppose that due to the bad weather the ropes could be broken and the ship might have hit the shore.”
He added that broken stern elements, including a beam from the keel split as if it had struck a hard surface, support this scenario. The ship was apparently damaged beyond repair, leading its owners to abandon it on the seabed.
The discovery offers valuable insights into Roman maritime trade and shipbuilding techniques along the Dalmatian Coast. The construction and cargo suggest a working merchant vessel engaged in everyday commerce during the height of the Roman Empire, rather than a grand warship or ceremonial craft.
Following thorough documentation, the wreck will be preserved in situ. It has been covered with a protective geotextile membrane and reburied in sand to ensure its long-term conservation. Plans are also underway to create a 1:10 scale reconstruction of the ship’s structure, allowing the public to visualise how it would have appeared in Roman times.
The excavation was a collaborative international effort involving experts from Croatia, France, Poland, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
This find not only enriches our understanding of Roman seafaring and economy but also highlights how significant historical treasures can lie hidden in plain sight — literally beneath the feet of holidaymakers enjoying Croatia’s sun-drenched shores. As researchers continue to analyse the artefacts, the shipwreck stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the Roman world.