14/10/2025
A groundbreaking discovery is unfolding beneath the waters off the coast of Murcia, Spain, as archaeologists work to recover Mazarrón 2, the most complete Phoenician shipwreck ever found in the Mediterranean. Dating back to around 700 BC, this 2,700-year-old vessel offers an unprecedented glimpse into ancient maritime trade. For the first time, researchers are uncovering untouched remnants of Phoenician seafaring, providing crucial clues to the vast trade networks that shaped early Mediterranean civilizations.
Led by the University of Valencia, a specialized team began the extraction in September 2024. Using advanced technology, including 3D modeling and polyethylene molds, they are carefully extracting the ship’s fragile remains. Unexpected discoveries—such as centuries-old rope fragments and ceramics—have emerged from the sediment, shedding new light on the day-to-day operations of these ancient vessels.
The operation, scheduled to finish extraction by November 6, not only reveals the Phoenicians’ pivotal role in establishing Mediterranean trade routes but also sets a new benchmark for underwater archaeology. Once the ship and artifacts are safely recovered, they will undergo a conservation process that could take up to five years, eventually offering future generations a rare glimpse into the life and trade practices of one of history’s most influential maritime civilizations.
