16th-Century Shipwreck Found at Record Depth in French Waters with Pristine Cargo

In a stunning revelation, a 16th-century shipwreck has been uncovered at an unprecedented depth in French waters, its cargo of vibrant ceramics offering a vivid glimpse into the past. Discovered on March 4 by a French Navy unit off the coast of Ramatuelle in southeastern France, the vessel—named Camarat 4—lies over a mile and a half beneath the sea, making it the deepest shipwreck ever recorded in the region.

The ship, stretching 30 meters long and 7 meters wide, was stumbled upon during a routine exploratory mission aimed at mapping the seabed. What makes this find extraordinary is not just its depth but the pristine condition of its cargo. Hundreds of polychrome faience pitchers, adorned with the Christogram IHS—symbolizing Jesus Christ—and intricate vegetal and geometric designs, point to their Ligurian origins in Italy. These artifacts, remarkably intact after 500 years, reflect the deep Christian influence in early modern Europe.

A Treasure Trove Untouched by Time
Images from the site reveal a haunting scene: scattered ceramics, anchors, cannons, and cauldrons, with many more items likely buried under sediment. The French Department of Underwater and Submarine Archaeological Research (DRASSM) notes that the wreck’s depth has shielded it from looting and degradation, preserving a near-intact snapshot of 16th-century maritime life. Alongside the pitchers, about 100 Ligurian plates and onboard equipment hint at the ship’s role in bustling trade routes.

A Rare Opportunity for History
This discovery is a historian’s dream, offering a unique chance to study an almost untouched 16th-century vessel. Unlike other wrecks, Camarat 4 has remained undisturbed, its secrets locked away by the ocean’s depths. As researchers prepare to dive deeper into the site, the find promises to shed light on the craftsmanship, trade, and cultural currents of a bygone era.

Europe’s waters have been generous with historical treasures this year, from an 18th-century treasure ship off Ireland to a vessel beneath a Spanish fish market. Yet, Camarat 4 stands out, not just for its depth but for the story it tells—a story of faith, trade, and the enduring pull of the sea.