A team of archaeologists has uncovered new evidence of a submerged ancient port in the ancient Greek city of Asini, near the coastal village of Tolo. The excavation revealed structural remains that provide new insights into Mediterranean maritime history.
The discovery is part of an ongoing underwater research project launched in 2022. The effort is a collaboration between Greece’s Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities, the Swedish Institute at Athens, Stockholm University, the University of Gothenburg, and the Nordic Maritime Group.
New findings in the ancient port of Asini
Led by Greek archaeologist Dr. Panagiota Galiatsatou and Swedish researchers Prof. Ann-Louise Schallin and Dr. Niklas Eriksson, the team focused on a section of an artificial platform submerged in shallow waters. Previous studies indicated that this area had retained much of its original structure.
Using advanced photography techniques, archaeologists documented structural elements within a 16-square-meter area. Their findings confirmed the presence of a large stone foundation, likely part of the ancient port infrastructure. Many stones and fragments of construction materials were identified, suggesting the structure gradually collapsed over time.
Among the most notable discoveries were ceramic fragments, including amphora pieces embedded in stone structures and a broken vessel in an area known as “Sector 4A.” These artifacts may help determine when the port was in use and abandoned.
The Asini port’s history
Asini has been inhabited since prehistoric times, making it difficult to establish the port’s precise construction date. However, evidence suggests it played a significant role in regional trade. Excavations conducted in 2021 and 2022 revealed that the site was larger than initially believed.
The main structure consists of an artificial platform with the remains of what may have been rooms or buildings. This suggests that the port may have served multiple purposes beyond maritime trade.
Archaeologists plan further excavations to explore the upper part of the artificial platform. The next phase will involve carefully removing sediment by hand and using controlled dredging to uncover additional structures.
Objects and architectural remains 3D imaging
All objects and architectural remains will be documented in situ using high-precision 3D imaging techniques. This approach will assist researchers in analyzing the findings without disturbing their original placement.
The results of the 2024 excavation will be published in Opuscula, a scientific journal produced by the Swedish Institutes at Athens and Rome. Additional findings will appear in specialized archaeology and maritime research publications.
The Asini discoveries provide crucial clues about ancient sea trade and port construction. As researchers continue their work, the site may reveal more about how ancient civilizations built and used maritime infrastructure.