Divers uncover mysterious shipwreck loaded with ancient cargo lost for 2,400 years

Divers investigating waters off a Greek island have discovered a roughly 2,400-year-old shipwreck carrying hundreds of ancient amphorae.

The discovery was announced this summer by Greece's Ministry of Culture. 

In the translated press release, officials said a "private individual" tipped them off to the wreck, which was located in the waters off Andros, an island in Greece's Cyclades.

'SPECTACULAR' SHIPWRECK FOUND WITH UNDERWATER TIME CAPSULE OF UNTOUCHED CARGO: 'AMAZING FIND'

The shipwreck was found at a depth of between 128 and 144 feet underwater, officials said, and its cargo was made up of hundreds of "pointed-bottom commercial amphorae."

An initial count placed the number of amphorae at roughly 600 to 650, according to officials.

Underwater photos show the ancient artifacts encrusted with marine growth and scattered across the seafloor.

Amphorae, or ceramic storage jars, were widely used in the ancient world to transport goods ranging from wine and olive oil to grain and other foodstuffs.

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Officials have not disclosed what the amphorae, which date to the late fifth and early fourth centuries B.C., may have contained. 

Archaeologists identified three distinct types: Mende, Peparethos and Solokha 2.

Archaeologists also discovered part of a lead anchor stock and several stones that may have been used as ballast to help stabilize the vessel.

Officials said the discovery "adds to our knowledge of trade and navigation during the Late Classical period."

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"During the inspection, one amphora of each type was recovered for sampling and study," the statement added.

"Further study of the discovery is expected to provide additional information about both the ship's cargo and its origin."

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The Mediterranean Sea, a crossroads of maritime trade for thousands of years, is home to countless shipwrecks and archaeological sites.

Earlier this summer, officials announced the discovery of gold jewelry aboard a roughly 1,300-year-old shipwreck off the Croatian island of Mljet.

Last summer, officials announced the discovery of hundreds of well-preserved ceramics at a roughly 2,000-year-old shipwreck off the coast of Turkey.