Cape Gelidonya shipwreck

The Cape Gelidonya shipwreck is an ancient Phoenician merchant vessel found off the coast of Turkey, dating to around 1200 BCE. It was discovered in 1958 and is one of the earliest known shipwrecks excavated to reveal ancient seafaring and trading practices. The ship carried valuable cargo like copper ingots, tools, and pottery, illustrating maritime trade in the Bronze Age. Its preservation provides important insights into early shipbuilding techniques and trade networks across the Mediterranean. The find significantly advanced underwater archaeology, highlighting the importance of maritime history in understanding ancient civilizations.