Two New Underwater Discoveries Off Elba Shed Light on Ancient Tyrrhenian Routes

Significant archaeological discoveries have emerged from the waters surrounding Elba Island, including a Roman dolium and potential shipwreck remnants. These findings were made possible through monitoring efforts by the Soprintendenza ABAP for Pisa and Livorno, in partnership with the Carabinieri Tutela Patrimonio Culturale from Florence and the Carabinieri Subacquei of Genoa, which began in May 2026. The dolium, a sizable terracotta vessel used for food transport, is thought to be associated with 'dolia ships' dating back to the late Republic and early Empire. The shipwreck, measuring approximately five meters in length and two meters in width, is encrusted with mucilage and features visible planking and bronze nails, indicating a timeframe from late antiquity to the Middle Ages. A new research initiative is set for autumn.