Underwater Archaeology in Ibiza

Published 10 February 2012 Stephen White.

Tags: History, Ibiza News

a thick layer of sediment

Spotlight has featured many stories of archaeological finds and remnants of ancient civilisations which have been unearthed during building projects. The plans for the new Parador in Dalt Vila have been modified to accommodate many remains which have been found there and a new school planned on a former car park in the town centre is months behind schedule whilst archaeologists complete investigations on site.

Now, a new find has been made during the dredging process of Botafoch harbour. A 17th century ship was uncovered during the operations and already many relics – including two bronze canons – have been brought to the surface for study and eventual housing in a museum.

The eventual aim is to raise the ship Mary Rose style from the sea bottom and preserve it for future generations. This is such a time consuming and expensive operation that it cannot be done now when it would delay such an important project.

The island authorities have therefore decided to mothball the ship by completely covering it in a thick layer of sediment and then building the already planned car park on top of it. When the time is right in the future, it will be relatively easy to uncover the ship to raise and eventually display it to the public.

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