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| Ancient Shipwreck Discovered 2.5KM Deep in France — 16th Century Ceramics Found in Record-Breaking Underwater Find. |
In one of the most exciting underwater archaeological discoveries in recent years, the French Navy (VMS) accidentally stumbled upon a centuries-old shipwreck during a routine seabed survey in March 2025, off the coast of Ramatuelle in the French Riviera.
Now nicknamed Camarat 4, the shipwreck lies more than 2,500 meters beneath the surface of the Mediterranean Sea, making it the deepest sunken vessel ever discovered in French territorial waters. This find beats the previous record held by the submarine “Minerve,” which sank in 1968 at a depth of 2.3 kilometers.
A 30-Meter Renaissance-Era Vessel Preserved by Depth
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| Ancient Shipwreck Discovered 2.5KM Deep in France — 16th Century Ceramics Found in Record-Breaking Underwater Find. |
The ship, estimated to be about 30 meters long and 7 meters wide, was first detected using underwater drones. Confirmation followed shortly after, thanks to a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Experts believe the ship originally set sail from the Ligurian coast (modern-day northern Italy) and was carrying a valuable cargo of 16th-century ceramics.
Hundreds of Ceramic Artifacts on Board
Archaeologists discovered over 200 beautifully decorated ceramic jugs with geometric and floral patterns, along with 100 vibrant yellow plates. What’s fascinating is that many of these items feature the “IHS” Christogram — the first three letters of “Jesus” in Greek. This strongly suggests that the ceramics were made in Liguria during the Renaissance era.
The ship also contained anchors, two large stoves, and even six cannons, giving researchers incredible insights into maritime technology and trade practices of the 16th century.
Trash Among the Treasures: Modern Pollution Found
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| Ancient Shipwreck Discovered 2.5KM Deep in France — 16th Century Ceramics Found in Record-Breaking Underwater Find. |
Despite the incredible preservation of the ship thanks to its depth, researchers were shocked to find signs of modern pollution near the wreck — aluminum cans and plastic packaging were scattered around the site. This discovery serves as a harsh reminder that no part of our oceans is untouched by pollution, even at extreme depths.
In response, scientists have begun integrating environmental awareness into future marine archaeology missions, emphasizing the urgent need to protect underwater heritage from human impact.
What’s Next: 3D Modeling and Artifact Recovery
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| Ancient Shipwreck Discovered 2.5KM Deep in France — 16th Century Ceramics Found in Record-Breaking Underwater Find. |
The archaeological team plans to continue research at the site over the next few years. A photogrammetric 3D model of the ship will be created to study its structure in detail without causing damage. Selected artifacts will also be carefully brought to the surface for deeper analysis by experts in ceramics, artillery, naval architecture, and conservation.
These studies aim to uncover more about Renaissance-era trade routes, shipbuilding techniques, and cultural exchanges across the Mediterranean.
The discovery of the Camarat 4 shipwreck is more than just an archaeological milestone — it’s a wake-up call. While the deep sea preserved a piece of our shared history, traces of modern waste show how much damage we've already done.
This find not only opens a window to the past but also highlights our responsibility to protect the future. Because sometimes, history and environmental awareness go hand in hand.
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