What To Know
- A fascinating discovery has been unearthed on the southern coast of the Caspian Sea in Iran.
- An 18th-century ship, buried under a sand dune near the village of Zaghemarz, has come to light due to variations in sea levels.
- A recent discovery near Zaghemarz sheds light on an 18th-century Russian ship buried under a sand dune.
A fascinating discovery has been unearthed on the southern coast of the Caspian Sea in Iran. An 18th-century ship, buried under a sand dune near the village of Zaghemarz, has come to light due to variations in sea levels. This historical relic offers a unique glimpse into naval practices and trade routes of that era.
a maritime treasure unearthed
In 2024, a Russian shipwreck from the 18th century was discovered near Zaghemarz, Iran, by international researchers. The study reveals an advanced shipbuilding design featuring a three-masted structure and double hull, dated between 1762 and 1808. This discovery underscores the historical significance of the Caspian Sea in cultural and commercial exchanges.
historical context of the caspian sea
The maritime history is rich with invaluable testimonies on economic and cultural exchanges that shaped civilizations. The Caspian Sea’s shores, a strategic crossroads surrounded by five nations, regularly reveal relics attesting to its key role in regional trade.
- A recent discovery near Zaghemarz sheds light on an 18th-century Russian ship buried under a sand dune.
- This wreck was studied by researchers from various international organizations collaborating with Tehran’s Underwater Archaeology Faculty.
exceptional construction in a shifting landscape
This historical ship measures 92 feet long and 26 feet wide. It embodies advanced naval architecture for its time. Its design—a three-masted structure with a double hull—reflects sophisticated engineering meant to ensure both robustness and stability in sometimes unpredictable Caspian Sea conditions.
revelatory materials analysis
- The materials analyses confirm the Russian origin of the vessel.
- Woods like Scots pine and spruce/fir were identified, common in the Volga basin and Caucasus regions.
These material choices reveal meticulous construction tailored to meet prolonged maritime voyage demands.
a disappointing cargo but rich insights
The examination of remnants found within the wreck revealed three wicker baskets containing primarily buckwheat seeds (Fagopyrum esculentum), a strategic crop in that era’s maritime economy. Interestingly, these seeds remained well-preserved due to their burial conditions.
- White goosefoot (Chenopodium album) and field pennycress (Thlaspi arvense) accompanied them as local harvest residues.
challenges and mysteries surrounding the russian shipwreck
The excavation faced considerable challenges as efforts had to be made to prevent further marine erosion from degrading the structure. Consequently, a sandbag wall was erected alongside it for protection.
- Lack of tangible elements about the precise function of the vessel remains frustrating for researchers.
