A group of miners in Serbia made an extraordinary discovery when they stumbled upon the remains of an ancient ship, believed to potentially date back to the Roman Empire.

The ship’s hull, measuring approximately 42 feet in length, was found in the village of Drmno, near the ancient Roman settlement of Viminacium. Archaeologists leading the research on the site suggest that the proximity to Viminacium indicates a connection to the city’s historical significance.

Archaeologist Miomir Korac, overseeing the excavation since 2020, stated that while the ship is likely Roman, the exact age remains uncertain. This discovery adds to the archaeological findings in the area, which include at least one other vessel and three canoes found near the Mlava river.

Viminacium, once a bustling city with notable imperial visits during the 4th century CE, boasted a population of around 48,000 residents at its peak. Ongoing archaeological efforts since the 19th century have unearthed various artifacts such as tombs, an amphitheater, and an aqueduct, many of which are now on display in museums in Belgrade and Požarevac.

Plans are underway to exhibit some of the newly discovered items in Kostolac, a nearby town. However, showcasing the ship’s hull itself poses logistical challenges due to its size. Nevertheless, the discovery promises to enrich our understanding of ancient Roman maritime activities and their cultural and economic impact in the region.