Roman Shipwreck Off Sicily Resonates in Umbria's Hill Towns

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 found the vessel, which also contained parts of anchors, in what the culture minister has called one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years.

The New York Times reported that an Italian diver discovered hundreds of ancient amphorae piled up about 150 feet underwater, suggesting the relics came from a Roman shipwreck from about 2,000 years ago. The find has been hailed as a treasure for southern Italy's heritage, with CBS News noting the discovery was made by an underwater fisherman who described it as the 'most incredible' in his life.

For a region like Umbria, the discovery is a reminder that Italy's ancient heritage is not confined to the coasts. The Roman Empire's reach extended deep into the peninsula, and inland regions like Umbria hold their own archaeological riches, from the Etruscan and Roman remains around Perugia to the lesser-known sites that dot the hill towns.