In a remarkable underwater archaeological discovery, 112 centuries-old glass vessels have been found near Burgas, Bulgaria. These artifacts, believed to date back to the late 16th or early 17th century, are thought to have originated from the renowned glass workshops on the island of Murano, Venice. The find not only sheds light on ancient trade routes but also opens a window into the craftsmanship and economic interactions of the period.
Discovery of Centuries-Old Glass Vessels
The underwater excavation near Burgas has unveiled 112 glass vessels, providing significant insight into historical maritime activities. According to the Regional Historical Museum Burgas (RHM Burgas), these objects likely came from a workshop on Murano, Venice, dating to the second half of the 16th century or the early 17th century. The exact dating and context of the glass objects, as well as potential shipwreck remains, are still under investigation.
Evidence of a Maritime Mishap
The glass vessels are believed to be part of a cargo spill from a ship that encountered rough seas. Supporting this theory is the discovery of several iron anchor chains and fragmented ceramic vessels nearby. Despite extensive searches, the precise location of the shipwreck remains unknown. RHM Burgas stated on Facebook that there is a high probability that the shipwreck is near the site where the glass fragments were found.
Broader Archaeological Findings
In addition to the glass vessels, the archaeological team explored other significant areas within the bay. These explorations revealed a variety of artifacts from different historical periods. One notable area, at a depth of 2 to 2.5 meters (6.6 to 8.2 feet), contained dozens of whole and fragmented glass vessels, reinforcing the shipwreck hypothesis. Another zone, west of the glass vessel area, yielded Hellenistic pottery fragments, a small lead rod from the Roman era, and a stone fishing weight.
Discoveries Near Historic Chengene Pier
The southeastern end of the bay, near the historic Chengene Pier, was another focal point of interest. This site, mentioned in European diplomatic records from the 18th and 19th centuries, revealed a concentration of late antique and medieval amphora fragments, including parts of Gunsenin type III amphorae from the 12th-13th centuries. These findings add depth to our understanding of the area’s historical significance.
Findings at the Monastery Port Near St. Anastasia Island
Another significant site, known as the monastery port near St. Anastasia Island, provided additional historical context. Underwater inspections here uncovered fragments of ceramic vessels from the 18th-19th centuries, late antique amphorae parts, and an iron horn from an anchor. These discoveries align with historical accounts of significant maritime activities in the area.
Conclusion
The discoveries of ancient glass vessels and other artifacts near Burgas, Bulgaria, are crucial for understanding the trade dynamics and production techniques of glassware in the Balkans during the Late Ottoman period. The ongoing research promises to shed light on the poorly studied aspects of glass consumption, trade, and production in the region. Following conservation work, these newly discovered glass items will be exhibited at the Archaeological Museum in Burgas, allowing the public to appreciate these remarkable remnants of history.
