18th-Century Shipwreck Found Off Croatia Coast
- An unexpected find near the historic stone walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia, has revealed a glimpse into the city's rich maritime past.
- Dubrovnik, a UNESCO-protected heritage site and a key trade hub in the Adriatic Sea during medieval times, is a popular tourist destination.
- The remains of the vessel are now under protection as experts conduct further research.
Unearth a captivating story of dubrovnik’s past! An 18th-century boat, a remarkable discovery during water pipeline construction, surfaces near the Croatian city’s ancient port. This incredible find underlines Dubrovnik‘s ancient maritime role within the Adriatic Sea, revealing its meaning as a key trade hub sence medieval times. Marine archaeologists are actively examining the protected remains. This exciting glimpse into history offers a unique lens through which too view the impact of mass tourism on the UNESCO-protected site. The find spotlights the collaboration between experts and Croatia’s Ministry of Culture,emphasizing preservation for future study. News directory 3 is proud to bring you this story. Learn about the vessel’s type and dimensions from Radiocarbon analysis. Discover what’s next …
18th-Century Boat Discovery Highlights Dubrovnik’s Maritime Role
Updated June 25, 2025
An unexpected find near the historic stone walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia, has revealed a glimpse into the city’s rich maritime past. Ivan Bukelic, a diver and undersea builder, unearthed an 18th-century boat while working on a water pipeline in April. The discovery occurred just 23 to 31 inches beneath the seabed in Dubrovnik’s old port.
Dubrovnik, a UNESCO-protected heritage site and a key trade hub in the Adriatic Sea during medieval times, is a popular tourist destination. The city also served as a filming location for HBO’s “Game of Thrones.” The recent boat discovery underscores Dubrovnik’s historical meaning and its enduring connection to the sea.
The remains of the vessel are now under protection as experts conduct further research. Marine archaeologist Irena Radić Rossi confirmed radiocarbon analysis dates the boat to the late 18th century. “We still cannot speak of the type of vessel or its dimensions,” Radić Rossi said, “but we can say for certain, based on the results of radiocarbon analysis, that it was from the late 18th century.”
Radić Rossi added that the research will continue in partnership with croatia’s Ministry of Culture. “We must protect it for the future,” she said.
Beyond its historical treasures, Dubrovnik grapples with the impact of mass tourism. In 2017, city officials introduced the “Respect the City” plan, limiting cruise ship tourist numbers to 4,000 at any given time. In 2018, the city of 2,500 residents frequently enough hosted around eight cruise ships daily, each adding approximately 2,000 tourists to the streets.
What’s next
Further investigation of the 18th-century boat will provide more insights into Dubrovnik’s maritime history and the role it played in Adriatic trade. The collaboration between archaeologists and the Ministry of Culture aims to ensure the preservation of this valuable find for future generations.