This 7th century Byzantine shipwreck, located at Yassıada, was discovered by sponge diver Kemal Aras and excavated by renowned underwater archaeologist George Bass. It is one of numerous vessels that struck the rocks just below sea level on the eastern side of the island and sank. This area has become a veritable ship graveyard due to countless maritime accidents throughout history.
This historic wreck is a 7th century Byzantine merchant vessel, approximately 20 meters in length and 5 meters in beam, carrying 900-1000 amphorae with a cargo capacity of 60 tons. The shipwreck was scientifically excavated between 1961-1964 by George Bass and his team through 3,533 dives. Located on a sloping, current-prone site at depths varying between 32 and 36 meters, the wreck findings were cleaned and dated after 18 years of research work.
Among the objects found aboard the vessel were fishing nets, kitchen pottery, a harpoon, and a large steelyard scale inscribed with the name Georgios. Additionally, numerous amphorae discovered during the excavation are displayed at the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
Fifteen gold and bronze coins found on the vessel, dating from the reign of Emperor Heraclius, are of great importance in dating the shipwreck. Furthermore, 24 oil lamps and iron anchors also contributed to the dating process.
It is believed that the vessel was sailing from north to south with the aid of a strong wind when it struck the rocks near Yassıada and sank. Located approximately 100 meters from the Yassıada shore, this historic wreck is also significant for the information it provides about shipbuilding techniques of the era.
In a brochure prepared by Oğuz Alpözen, founder of the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, the final moments experienced by the captain of this Eastern Roman ship that sank near Bodrum in the 7th century A.D. are recounted as follows:
June 5;
The 17th year of the reign of His Excellency Emperor Heraclius (626 A.D.). I am Georgios Kalostulos, captain (Naukleros) of this ship belonging to the Church, and priest (Presbiteros) of the same church. Before sunrise, we set sail from the island of Samos toward the Eastern Mediterranean, in the direction of the province of Caria, carrying provisions needed by the imperial army fighting against the Persians. We sought refuge in God and prayed that the holy Saint would guide our way. Since the coastline is very dangerous, we will anchor at night in the ports along our route and sail during the day.
June 6;
Our voyage began in calm weather. Samos, in the direction of Peloponnese, was still behind us. We hoped to reach Halicarnassus to shelter for the night. As we approached Myndos, the peninsula's important port, we attempted to pass through the secret narrow passage between the small islands to shorten our route. I had used this dangerous passage many times, but this time God was not with us. The strongly blowing wind suddenly shifted to the west, preventing us from rounding Lodos Island (Yassıada). Thanks be to God, myself and all the crew managed to reach the island and saved our lives.