Archaeologists working at the site of a former fish market in Barcelona have unearthed a remarkably well-preserved section of a shipwreck that could date back as far as 500 years. The find, made in northeast Spain during routine excavations, includes the stern of a large wooden vessel believed to have sunk in the 15th or 16th centuries. Measuring approximately 10 meters in length and three meters in width, the structure is composed of over 30 curved wooden ribs and offers a rare glimpse into shipbuilding techniques from the late medieval or early modern period.
The discovery was made five meters below current sea level, where the wreck had been buried beneath layers of damp sand. This natural covering created ideal preservation conditions, shielding the wooden remains from decay over the centuries. Experts believe that this is one of the most important maritime archaeological discoveries in the region in recent years, especially given the rarity of such well-preserved underwater remnants.
Santiago Palacios Nieto, 30, who leads the archaeological team, noted that the ship appears to be Mediterranean in style but also exhibits characteristics typical of Atlantic shipbuilding traditions. Based on its construction features, the vessel may have originated from the Basque Country or Galicia, suggesting a possible link between seafaring communities across different regions of Spain during a time of extensive maritime trade and exploration.
Currently, the focus is on preserving the integrity of the wood, which is at risk of deteriorating if allowed to dry out too quickly. Archaeologists and conservationists are working around the clock, keeping the remains moist by watering them continuously. This delicate process is essential to prevent the timbers from shrinking or cracking, which would compromise both the scientific and historical value of the find.
Future studies will analyze the ship’s keel, wood types, and construction methods, offering deeper insights into maritime activities, trade routes, and shipbuilding practices of the period. The team is optimistic that the ongoing excavation and subsequent research will contribute significantly to the understanding of Spain’s nautical past.
This discovery underscores Barcelona’s historical significance as a maritime hub and demonstrates the rich archaeological potential hidden beneath modern urban infrastructure. It also serves as a reminder of how routine construction or redevelopment projects can unexpectedly unlock valuable pieces of history that have long been hidden from view.
READ MORE: