Ancient Greek Shipwrecks Found Near Mediterranean Wind Farm Site

By the Editorial Team · Monday, June 29, 2026

Acciona has revised the layout of its planned 32-turbine offshore wind farm off the coast of Calabria after uncovering two ancient Greek shipwrecks, including a 4th or 5th-century BC merchant vessel carrying 300 ceramic amphoras. This discovery not only sheds light on ancient Mediterranean trade but also emphasizes the need to protect the archaeological sites while advancing renewable energy development in a historically significant maritime area.

Plans for an offshore wind farm in the Mediterranean Sea have been revised following the discovery of two ancient Greek shipwrecks near the intended installation site off the coast of Calabria, southern Italy. The finds, uncovered by remotely operated underwater vehicles deployed prior to the construction of 32 floating wind turbines, include a 4th or 5th-century BC merchant vessel carrying approximately 300 ceramic amphoras.

The Spanish company Acciona, responsible for the wind farm project, announced it will adjust the layout of the turbines to avoid disturbing the archaeological sites. The shipwrecks are situated roughly 14 miles from Monasterace, an area also notable for the presence of a well-preserved World War II British bomber.

Marine archaeologist Francesco Tiboni, involved in the investigation, described the amphoras as being in exceptional condition for their age of around 2,500 years. Preliminary analysis indicates the amphoras are of Corinthian style, shedding light on ancient trade routes and providing insight into the economic relations between Greek city-states and their colonies in southern Italy and Sicily during that era. Tiboni emphasized the potential for further discoveries, including possible remnants of wine or olive oil within the vessels, through analysis of stamps and organic residue on the amphoras' clay.

The regional government’s archaeological team, led by Alessandra Ghelli, highlighted concerns about damage caused to the amphoras by fishing trawl nets, underscoring the importance of timely recovery efforts. The team plans to raise the amphoras individually for detailed study.

In addition to the merchant ships, the survey identified the wreckage of a Bristol Beaufort, an RAF bomber shot down in August 1942. The aircraft operated out of Malta and had been on a mission targeting an Italian supply vessel transporting fuel to Axis forces in North Africa.

The discoveries reaffirm the historical significance of the area as a busy maritime corridor in antiquity and during World War II. Tiboni noted the region’s persistent strong winds, which may have contributed to the ancient ships’ sinking and continue to support its suitability for wind energy development.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.