Archaeologists resume work on AR7 wreck

Archaeologists have returned to the Rhône River to continue excavating the wreck known as Arles Rhône 7 (AR7). This underwater site is being studied as part of a five-week project planned for the 2026 academic year.

Team includes experts from multiple institutions

The effort is led by David Djaoui from the Musée départemental Arles antique (MDAA), along with Sabrina Marlier (also from MDAA) and Pierre Poveda from the Camille-Jullian Center. The team includes about fifteen people working in various roles.

Team meets to plan daily activities

The team gathered at 8:30 a.m. on the right bank of the Rhône at Trinquetaille to organize the day's work. Activities include assigning tasks to diving archaeologists, underwater photographers, and safety personnel.

Divers prepare and check equipment

After dressing and loading the boat, the first team docked near the AR7 wreck. At 9:15 a.m., divers checked their equipment, with one confirming a pressure level of 200, which was considered safe and adequate for the dive.

Progress from last year's challenges

Last year, difficult diving conditions slowed progress, but the stern of a flat-bottomed boat had been partially uncovered under several meters of sediment. This year, the goal is to fully excavate the wreck.