A team of researchers from the University of Ljubljana’s Institute of Underwater Archaeology (ZAPA) has made a remarkable discovery off the coast of Portorož, Slovenia—a well-preserved ancient Roman harbour, shedding new light on the region’s rich maritime history.
Divers from the university’s faculty of maritime studies and transport unearthed more than 3,000 ceramic fragments along with two ancient ship masts, several wooden stakes, and rigging and sail parts. Among the discoveries, the wooden stakes stand out, potentially forming a protective barrier for the coastline, while the two remarkably intact masts, measuring over three feet in length and crafted from fir and spruce trees, are hailed as “unique examples on a global scale” by the researchers.
The recovered pottery, predominantly sigallata—a popular type of red pottery mass-produced during the 1st century CE—offers insights into the bustling trade and cultural exchange that characterized the ancient harbour. Imported amphorae, kitchenware, and fine tableware shards further underline the harbour’s significance as a hub of commerce and connectivity.
To ensure the preservation of these invaluable artefacts, the wood items will be treated with melamine resin and housed alongside other objects at the Sergei Mašera Maritime Museum in Piran, safeguarding them for future generations.
Portorož, with its rich history dating back to prehistoric times and its subsequent conquest by the Roman Empire in 178 BCE, has evolved into a vibrant tourist destination. The location of the discovery, Bernardin Beach, renowned for its sheltered environment, has played a pivotal role in preserving these ancient remnants, offering a window into the past amidst a modern-day paradise.
This excavation forms part of a broader initiative spanning Slovenia’s 30-mile coastline along the Adriatic Sea since 2017, spearheaded by ZAPA. Despite the challenges posed by consistently poor visibility, the research team remains undeterred, driven by a shared passion for uncovering the mysteries of Slovenia’s maritime heritage.
The recent discovery adds to a growing catalogue of Roman sites in the area, including an ancient farm settlement beneath a present-day gas station and an ancient fish farm adjacent to old salt warehouses. Through meticulous study and analysis, researchers speculate that the site may have functioned as a small Roman harbour between the 3rd and 4th centuries CE, hinting at a vibrant maritime past waiting to be fully unearthed and understood.
As investigations continue beyond the fieldwork phase, the Roman harbour promises to unveil further insights into ancient seafaring, trade networks, and coastal life, enriching our understanding of Slovenia’s cultural tapestry and its enduring maritime legacy.
