Archaeologists work under Kekova

Under the waters of Kekova, an uninhabited Turkish island in the Lycian Sea, archaeologists are carefully removing layers of sand to uncover ancient objects.

Images shared by Turkish ministry

The Turkish Ministry of Culture broadcast images of these underwater excavations on Thursday, October 15, 2026, showing the progress of the work.

Amphorae reveal trade insights

Among the artifacts found are amphorae, ancient containers used for transporting and storing goods, which could provide valuable information about trade between Anatolia and other regions of the eastern Mediterranean.

Researchers trace ancient routes

These amphorae allow researchers to trace ancient trade routes, offering insights into economic and cultural exchanges from thousands of years ago.

Link to a Bronze Age ship

Analyses are ongoing to determine the origin of the amphorae and to verify if they are linked to a ship that sank at the beginning of the Bronze Age.

Understanding early maritime history

If a connection is confirmed, it could enhance understanding of a period still poorly documented in the history of Mediterranean maritime activity.