The discovery of old ship remains prompt archaeological excavations by the Ministry of Culture and Communication.
Rabat – According to the Ministry of Culture and Communication, the recently discovered ship ruins date back to a time period between the 18th and 19th century. The ministry is still conducting further research and empirical analysis to accurately identify the exact age of the ship ruins.
A recent extension project of the Essaouira port accelerated the erosion of the beach due to changes in water currents and sand deposits. The change in morphology of the beach allowed for the resurfacing of the ship ruins.
A set of wooden beams and remains of the ship’s foundation appeared during low tide on the Essaouira beach. The base of the ship is estimated to have a length of 26.5 meters.
The Ministry of Culture and Communication is conducting “rescue excavations” to identify the causes of the ship wreckage, as well as its historical background. The ministry will also conduct excavations in the adjacent island of Mogador for related archeological ruins.
