In an unprecedented discovery, a 16th-century merchant shipwreck has been found at a depth of 2,567 meters off the coast of Ramatuelle in the Var region, marking the deepest shipwreck ever discovered in French territorial waters. The find was announced by the Mediterranean Maritime Prefecture and the Ministry of Culture, highlighting a significant advancement in underwater archaeology.

The discovery was made accidentally on March 4 during a deep-sea exploration mission as part of the government's strategy to reclaim the seabed, initiated in 2019. Utilizing advanced underwater drones and robotic technology, the team was able to capture high-quality images of the wreck, revealing a well-preserved cargo of ceramics and iron bars. The ship, measuring 30 meters by 7 meters, is believed to have originated from a port in Northern Italy, though its final destination remains a mystery.

Archaeologists from the Department of Underwater and Submarine Archaeological Research (Drassm) have noted the exceptional state of preservation of the cargo, including over 200 globular pitchers with intricate designs, suggesting a high level of craftsmanship. The absence of looting at such depths has allowed the wreck to remain untouched, offering a unique snapshot of maritime trade in the 16th century.

The investigation into the shipwreck, dubbed Camarat 4, is just beginning, with experts anticipating years of research to uncover the full story behind the vessel. The discovery not only sheds light on historical trade routes but also underscores the importance of protecting underwater cultural heritage. As the archaeological community delves deeper into this find, the Camarat 4 shipwreck promises to reveal more about the maritime history of the Mediterranean.