World's Oldest Shipwreck Discovered off Antalya's Kekova

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that underwater excavations conducted off the coast of Kekova Island in Antalya have led to the discovery of the world's known oldest ship wreck.

Historic Underwater Discovery in Kekova

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy shared important information with the public regarding the underwater excavations carried out near Kekova Island in a post on his social media account.

It was stated that traces of the world's oldest shipwreck were brought to light within the scope of the works carried out in the Blue Homeland.

Background of the Excavation Works

Shipwreck remains had been detected near Kekova Island during underwater research conducted by Akdeniz University in previous years.

Excavations in the area began in 2026 under the presidency of the Antalya Museum Directorate and the scientific responsibility of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Öniz, with the permission of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Age and Place of Production of the Amphorae

It was determined that the amphorae recovered from the wreck are approximately 4,400 to 4,700 years old and belong to the Early Bronze Age.

Clay analyses conducted on the vessels showed that the place of production was likely workshops in the Jordan Valley.

Extensive Trade Networks and Similar Findings

It was stated that similar amphorae were also found near the Giza, Saqqara, and Abusir pyramids in Egypt, as well as in Troy and Crete.

Researchers evaluate that the ship may have set sail from a port on the Levantine coast and proceeded towards Troy or Crete.

Clues Regarding the Daily Life of Sailors

It was determined that one of the amphorae recovered in the excavations bore nine different marks on it and two holes on its body.

Examinations evaluated that the vessel could be a churn amphora used in cheese or butter making.