The remains of a Renaissance galleon have been found off the coast of Italy. Scientists believe that this is the ship "Santo Spirito", which sank in a shipwreck in 1579.
The galleon was found in February in the Ligurian Sea, near Camogli, at a depth of about fifty meters. The remains were stumbled upon by professional divers during the next dive. At the moment, a preliminary reconnaissance operation is underway. Researchers recognize the find as very important, since this is the first ship of its kind found in Italy.
Experts from the underwater service of the main directorate of archeology and culture believe that the research work will not be easy, since the depth at which the skeleton is located is the limit for this kind of work. But nevertheless, scientists expect that the survey will make it possible to establish with accuracy what kind of ship it was, which in turn will make it possible to better know the history of the navy of that time. However, it is not yet clear how well the ship was preserved.
We hope to find pottery and coins on the ship, as well as various navigational aids such as sextants and armillary spheres. In addition, we may also find artillery weapons. All these items will undoubtedly help us with the dating of the galleon,”says Alessandra Cabella, art historian from the General Directorate of Archeology and Culture.
It is worth noting that galleons appeared during the Great Geographical Discoveries in the 16th century. This is a multi-deck sailing vessel, which was mainly intended for long-distance travel.