Ancient Ship Graveyard Discovered Off Libyan Coast by Polish Archaeologists.

Polish Team's Underwater Discovery

According to TSN.ua: During underwater explorations near the ancient city of Ptolemais in Libya, Polish archaeologists have uncovered the remains of ships and artifacts, pointing to numerous maritime disasters in the area. Ptolemais was a major Greek city in the region of Cyrenaica, located in what is now northeastern Libya. Founded by the Ptolemaic dynasty in the late 4th or 3rd century BCE, the city thrived until the Arab conquest in the 7th century CE.

An expedition from the University of Warsaw resumed work at the site in 2023 after a 13-year hiatus. The research, led by Professor Bartosz Kontny, involved archaeologists and divers. Parts of the ancient harbor infrastructure are now submerged due to rising Mediterranean Sea levels and coastal erosion.

Artifacts Recovered from the Seabed

The seabed has yielded ancient columns, remnants of submerged roads, numerous anchors, and tools. Among the finds is a Roman milestone from the Severan dynasty period, dating to the first half of the 3rd century CE. Another significant artifact is a fragment of a Roman steelyard weight, crafted from bronze and filled with lead, shaped like a woman's head.

'We have recorded a large quantity of archaeological material over an area spanning more than 100 meters,' noted Dr. Piotr Jaworski.

In 2026, the Polish archaeological expedition will mark 25 years of work in Libya. The discovered artifacts and structural remains confirm the historical significance of the area and open new avenues for marine archaeology in the region. This discovery highlights the importance of Ptolemais as a historical and cultural hub with great potential for further study.

The finds not only confirm the existence of an ancient port but also reflect the complex history of Mediterranean trade and seafaring. This work provides a rare glimpse into Libya's rich classical past, which is often overshadowed by modern political events. The discovery could spark renewed interest in marine archaeology in Libya and aid in preserving its cultural heritage.