What is Uluburun?
Uluburun is not just any ship; it’s the oldest known ship in the world! Found in 1982 off the picturesque coast of Kaş, this groundbreaking discovery was made by sponge diver Mehmet Çakır. Two years later, excitement reached fever pitch when underwater excavations were launched by the Bodrum Underwater Museum, the Institute of Nautical Archaeology (INA), and the National Geographic Society, under the expert guidance of Prof. Dr. George Bass and Cemal Pulak. Over 24,400 dives unearthed a treasure trove of history.
Why is Uluburun Important?
Uluburun represents one of the most monumental scientific discoveries of the 20th century! This vessel, which sank around 1300 BC, carries a wealth of stories and lessons from the late Bronze Age. Its well-preserved hull pieces unlock secrets of trade, travel, and cultural exchange from an era long ago.
What was Uluburun’s Cargo?
The Uluburun shipwreck revealed an astonishing cargo of over 20,000 artefacts. Imagine 10 tons of copper ingots, a ton of tin, and even traces of gold and amber—each piece weaving a rich tapestry connecting Mycenaeans, Nubians, Canaanites, Cypriots, Egyptians, Kassites, and Assyrians.
Among the remarkable finds are 150 Canaanite clay jars, ten pithoi, 24 single-hole anchors, precious bronze tools, ostrich eggs, seals (including one linked to the legendary Nefertiti!), and captivating sculptures.
What was Uluburun's Course?
The probable route of this legendary ship took it from the coasts of Syria or Palestine or perhaps
perhaps Cyprus into the enchanting Aegean Sea—an ancient maritime journey that speaks volumes about early navigation and trade.
What Are Uluburun's Technical Structural Features?
Crafted from cedar wood, Uluburun showcases an extraordinary construction technique where layers of wood are interlocked.
This innovative "hull first" method paved the way for shipbuilding a millennium later!
With its unique keel design and interlocking joints locked with dowels—the first of its kind—Uluburun uses a system that later influenced Roman shipbuilding, famously dubbed "Phoenician interlocks."
Where Can Uluburun Shipwreck Be Visited Today?
It can be visited at the Underwater Archaeology Museum in Bodrum, where the remains of Uluburun are presented.
Where Can Uluburun's Replica Be Seen Today?
Our 360 Degree Historical Research Association brought the Uluburun Replica to life in Izmir, Urla, meticulously following the findings and techniques uncovered in the legendary 1984 excavation. This replica serves as a vital resource for studying ancient shipbuilding technology, sailing principles, and the materials of a bygone era.
Project Partners
• Prof. Dr. Cemal Pulak • Bodrum Underwater Archeology Museum • Dokuz Eylul University • Bochum Bergbau Museum • Generalkonsulat der Republik Türkei, Essen • Republik Türkei, Kultur und Tourismus Ministerium, Generaldirektion der Denkmaler und Museen, Ankara • INA, Institute of Nautical Archaeology • University, Texas A.& M
