About the ancient shipwreck
This ship sank about 2,000 years ago near the small island of Šćedro, and to this day lies almost intact at a depth of 45 meters. This ancient Roman shipwreck is one of the few known well-preserved wrecks from that time, which makes it a unique find.
What we can see so far are more than two hundred amphorae forming the shape of the boat. The age of the ship was determined based on their analysis. However, Tea Katunarić, the archaeologist from the University of Split who directs the underwater research, is convinced that the amphorae are just the beginning, because under the sand, elements of the wooden hull and everyday objects of sailors will also be found. Thanks to this, we will learn not only the history of the ship itself, but also the history of ordinary people living on the surrounding islands.
In addition, the amphorae have turned into an artificial reef that is full of marine life. So for us it is not only an archaeological discovery, but also a biological one.
The first 3D model of the ancient shipwrack near Šćedro
A 3D photogrammetric scan of the ancient Roman shipwreck found near island of Šćedro in Croatia. 3D model by Mariusz Milka. Photographs by Mariusz Milka, Piotr Stós and Ewelina Heil. Diving operations supported by Nautica Vis Diving Centre. Archaeological project directed by Tea Katunarić (Univerity of Split Arts Academy). Financal support by Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Croatia, Općina Jelsa Online and Friends of the Šćedro Association.
A good 3D scan of an underwater archaeological site
A good 3D scan of an underwater site or object shows archaeologists all its details. It can be analyzed without going into the water, which reduces research costs, and it can easily be made available to non-diving experts, for example those specialising in amphorae dating. It also allows you to see the entire object that can actually be difficult due to limited visibility underwater. Finally, since many underwater archaeological objects, for various reasons, cannot be physically extracted and shown, it is a good 3D scan that can be presented in a museum or on the Internet as our common world heritage.
If you need a detailed 3d model of a building, archaeological site or object under water or on land, then you’ve come to the right place. Just contact us and we will get back to you! Also, if you are involved in underwater archaeological project and want to learn how to create detailed 3D scans for underwater archaeology, then you might be interested in our on-line courses.