2024 Franina near Premantura Underwater Archaeological Investigation

During this year, underwater archaeologists from the International Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Zadar, led by Luka Bekić PhD and Maja Kaleb, have been conducting an investigation into an unidentified sailing ship that sank near Cape Franina. In the late 16th century, an English sailing ship, armed with iron cannons, probably sunk due to an unexpected storm in the Kvarner region. Currently, we know that the ship was transporting pottery vessels, colorful glass beads and red glass bowls. 

But the most important fact is that the ship had a valuable cargo – numerous brass trumpets, which were exceptionally rare and costly during that period. Archaeologists from the UNESCO category 2 centre in Zadar determined from the inscriptions that these trumpets originated from Strasbourg, France and Leiden, the Netherlands. Until now, no trumpets from those cities were known or have been preserved anywhere in the world. However, just yesterday, archaeologists discovered the best-preserved trumpet with the inscription LVGDVNY BATAVORVM, which corresponds to the Latin name for Leiden. Considering the cargo and specific details, it appears likely that the ship in question was of Dutch origin and engaged in trade between Leiden, Venice and Constantinople. However, for final conclusions, archaeologists need to carefully analyze its well-preserved remains and delve into dusty archives over an extended period.

Currently, underwater archaeologists from Zadar, along with members of the Pula Police Intervention Unit and collaborators from Slovakia, Germany, Slovenia and Spain, are actively researching the wooden ship structure. During their investigations, they have also discovered fragments of the ship's equipment, including wooden pulleys and ropes. At the seabed, iron cannons are cleaned and documented, while innovative and advanced protective measures are applied to prevent further deterioration. As a result, these iron cannons and anchors will be preserved for future tourist divers visiting this historically rich location with captivating stories. The research is funded by the Ministry of Culture and Media of the Republic of Croatia.