A remarkable fifth-century Greek shipwreck, known as Gela II, is set to be recovered from the seabed near the port of Gela, Sicily, marking a significant development in archaeological research. The operation, which began in July 2024, is expected to last around 270 days and cost approximately £420,000.
Identified in 1990, Gela II has garnered attention for its invaluable ancient artefacts, including Corinthian helmets and orichalcum ingots, a metal referenced by Plato and considered the second most precious after gold. The first ship recovered from this area, Gela I, has already contributed to the region's cultural tourism, and Gela II's recovery is anticipated to double this impact.
Initial investigations in 1995 revealed numerous significant items, which are now housed in the Archaeological Museum of Gela. The first conservation efforts for Gela II will occur at the Bosco Littorio museum, where the artefacts from Gela I were previously restored.
The ship, measuring approximately 15 meters long and 5 meters wide, was discovered about 6 meters underwater. The Regional Councillor for Cultural Heritage and Sicilian Identity, Francesco Paolo Scarpinato, emphasized the importance of this operation for the city of Gela and its cultural heritage.
In a related discovery, a lost bronze statue, the Diana of Versailles, was recently found in the wreck of the Titanic, highlighting the ongoing importance of underwater archaeology in uncovering historical treasures.