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Byzantine Shipwreck Yields Gold Hoard, Hints at High-Ranking Passenger
23 Jul
Summary
- Shipwreck dated to 7th or 8th century found off Croatia's coast.
- Over 600 grams of gold, including coins and jewellery, were recovered.
- Artefacts suggest a passenger of high status, not a typical merchant.
An ancient Byzantine shipwreck, discovered over a decade ago near Mljet island, has revealed significant historical treasures. Dated to the 7th or 8th century, the vessel carried a substantial amount of gold, weighing over 600 grams after cleaning. This impressive hoard, the largest ever found on a Mediterranean shipwreck, includes gold coins from the Heraclius dynasty and ornate jewellery.
Archaeologists believe the gold artefacts, such as jewelled buckles and a signet ring bearing the emperor's image, indicate the presence of a high-ranking individual and their entourage. This suggests it was not a common merchant vessel.
The shipwreck is considered exceptionally important for understanding the transition from the late Roman Empire to the medieval period. Its discovery provides critical insights into Mediterranean sea routes and the fragmentation of the empire during that turbulent era.
