Exploration and excavation of shipwrecks in Goa and adjoining waters 2004-2005
Abstract
As a part of the Institutional Project, 'Application of geological and geophysical methods in marine archaeology and underwater explorations' (STS 0004), exploration and excavation of shipwrecks have been carried out from Nov 24-Dec 02, 2005 for 06 days only in the Sunchi reef off Goa, India. The objective of this survey were three fold: (a) Extensive exploration in and around the wreck siteto find new artefacts, (b) To document the underwater findings of the Sunchi reef wreck through videography and (c) To explore new wrecks, if any, in the adjoining areas of Sunchi reef and Grande Island. After ascertaining the distribution of the artefacts, positions were obtained by Global Positioning System (GPS) and artefacts were collected for further research and analysis. In the course of exploration, a copper vessel, lead sheet, copper strap, Chinese ceramic, Martaban jar and lid sherds, bases of glass bottles and square terracotta bricks were found at 3 to 6 m water depth. Marine growth is noticed on almost all the artefacts. Chinese ceramic sherds with blue on white paintings belong to rimless shallow dishes, bowls and plates. The bases of glass bottles are round with conical inside. Even the square bases are not full flat and plain, they are also little elavated. Iron guns and granite stone blocks located earlier were also noticed. The wreck remains has been scattered over 75 to 100 m on the east, northeast and northwest side of the guns but not much artefacts noticed on southern and western sides.
Collections
- Grey literature [302]