Roman shipwreck with 500 amphorae found off Sicily

A 2,100-year-old Roman shipwreck carrying about 500 amphorae has been discovered three miles off the coast of Mazara del Vallo in Sicily, according to the Guardian. Italy's Carabinieri cultural heritage protection unit made the find, which the culture minister has called one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years.

The New York Times reports that hundreds of ancient amphorae were found piled up about 150 feet underwater, suggesting the relics came from a Roman shipwreck from about 2,000 years ago. CBS News adds that the discovery was made by an underwater fisherman who described it as the 'most incredible' in his life.

The vessel was located near the coast of Mazara del Vallo, a town on Sicily's western shore that has yielded significant ancient maritime finds before. The amphorae, large clay jars used to transport wine, oil and other goods, offer a window into Roman trade routes across the Mediterranean.