In the depths of the Ligurian Sea, off the coast of Santo Stefano al Mare, Italy, a 1st-century B.C. Roman shipwreck lies preserved, its cargo of amphorae—likely once filled with wine—scattered across the seabed. This underwater time capsule has now been mapped in unprecedented detail using cutting-edge technology, offering a glimpse into ancient maritime trade and demonstrating the potential for advanced underwater exploration in modern industries.
A team led by Christoforos Benetatos from the Politecnico di Torino’s Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering (DIATI) has pioneered the use of an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) to survey the wreck site. The AUV, developed by Graal Tech, was equipped with a suite of advanced sensors, including a NORBIT WBMS multibeam sonar and a 450 kHz side-scan sonar, allowing for high-resolution mapping of the seabed. “The integration of AUV technology with geospatial analysis methods has opened up new possibilities for underwater archaeological surveys,” Benetatos explained. “This approach not only enhances our understanding of historical sites but also paves the way for innovative applications in the energy sector.”
The AUV conducted multiple surveys, collecting data that revealed an accumulation of amphorae covering an area of approximately 10 × 7 meters, with a maximum height of 1 meter above the seabed. The detailed mapping highlighted local anomalies directly related to the presence of the Roman shipwreck, showcasing the effectiveness of AUVs in underwater archaeological applications.
Beyond its historical significance, this research has profound implications for the energy sector. The success of the mission underscores the potential for AUVs to monitor seabed movements related to offshore underground energy storage. “The technology we’ve developed can be applied to identify and track objects on the seabed, such as cables or pipelines, ensuring the safety and efficiency of offshore operations,” Benetatos noted. This capability is crucial for the energy industry, which increasingly relies on underwater infrastructure for renewable energy projects and offshore storage solutions.
The study, published in the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering (translated to English as “Journal of Marine Science and Engineering”), represents a significant step forward in the integration of advanced technologies with underwater exploration. As the energy sector continues to expand its operations into the marine environment, the use of AUVs for seabed monitoring and mapping will become increasingly vital. This research not only sheds light on ancient maritime history but also sets the stage for future developments in underwater technology, offering a blueprint for the energy industry to leverage these advancements for safer and more efficient operations.
In a world where the past and future intersect beneath the waves, the exploration of the Roman shipwreck off Santo Stefano al Mare serves as a testament to the power of innovation. As Benetatos and his team continue to push the boundaries of underwater technology, the energy sector stands to benefit from these advancements, ensuring a more sustainable and efficient future for offshore operations.