Divers have uncovered a remarkably preserved ancient shipwreck carrying hundreds of ceramic vessels off the coast of Andros, Greece, shedding new light on Classical trade routes. The Greek Ministry of Culture announced the discovery this summer after a private individual tipped off authorities to the wreckage.

Sunk at depths of 128 to 144 feet, the ship was from the fifth-fourth centuries B.C. and held an estimated 600-650 commercial amphorae, which are pointed-bottomed containers that were commonly used in ancient times. The three types of amphorae found in the ship included the Mende, Peparethos, and Solokha 2 varieties. The divers retrieved one amphora of each variety for analysis. Other items that were salvaged included the lead anchor stock and ballast stones.

In recent weeks, several Mediterranean discoveries have been made. Earlier, Italian authorities announced the discovery of a 2,100-year-old Roman-era shipwreck off Sicily's coast containing hundreds of amphorae. Moreover, a diver off Sardinia uncovered over 30,000 late Roman bronze coins dating to 324-345 C.E., with fragments of amphorae indicating the possibility of an undiscovered shipwreck.

Greek officials said: "These discoveries continue to demonstrate the Mediterranean's role as a crossroads of maritime trade, with the newly found Andros wreck adding to our knowledge of trade and navigation during the late classical period."