Treasure from the seabed: archaeologists recovered more than 900 artifacts from sunken ships of the Ming Dynasty (5 photos)

The South China Sea holds real treasures. Archaeologists have discovered two sunken ships from the Ming Dynasty that have lain at the bottom for almost 500 years. From these ships they recovered more than 900 unique artifacts - from copper coins to elegant porcelain dishes.





The history of China is long and varied. One period of notable artistic significance is the Ming Dynasty, named after the house that ruled from 1368 to 1644. At the time, China was expanding trade with other countries, sending many ships to India and other countries, especially as its classic blue and white porcelain became incredibly popular in Europe.

Some of these ships inevitably ended their lives on the bottom, leaving behind what we today call “time capsules.” In 2022, two Ming Dynasty merchant ships were found in the South China Sea. Their fragments lie at a distance of about 22 kilometers from each other, at a depth of almost 1,500 meters.



Manned underwater vehicle Shenhai Yongshi (Deep Sea Warrior)

In 2023, researchers began studying them and collecting finds. Submersibles were lowered to explore the wrecks and recover objects, while cameras and laser technology were used to take photographs and create 3D maps.





Thousands of artifacts lie among the wrecks. So far, 890 items have been recovered from the first ship, including copper coins, porcelain and other items. From the second ship - 38 artifacts, including antlers, lumber, shells and pottery. Thousands of new discoveries are waiting in the wings.



It is believed that the ships may have sailed from Jingdezhen, a porcelain export center. Beautifully painted pottery and intricate animal-shaped vessels are striking examples of the artistic styles of the Ming era, which flourished in the late 15th and early 16th centuries.



“The find suggests that our ancestors actively explored and used the South China Sea,” said Guan Qiang, deputy head of the National Cultural Heritage Administration. “These ships became important witnesses to trade and cultural exchanges along the ancient maritime Silk Road.”

Archaeologists are eagerly awaiting further reports of these amazing finds. After all, perhaps they have not yet revealed all the secrets stored at the bottom of the South China Sea.