After nearly three decades of research, archaeologists have identified a mysterious shipwreck discovered off England’s southern coast. More than 400 gold coins and newly uncovered historical records helped researchers finally reveal the vessel’s identity.
Experts concluded that the wreck belongs to the Dutch merchant ship Dom van Keulen, which sank in 1633 while sailing from Morocco to the Netherlands. The ship was carrying a valuable cargo that included thousands of gold coins, gum arabic, saltpetre and animal hides.
Researchers believe most of the cargo was recovered shortly after the sinking, as the crew managed to reach safety. However, hundreds of gold coins remained hidden beneath the seabed for almost 400 years until divers discovered them in 1995.
In addition to the coins, archaeologists recovered cannons, anchors, pottery, jewellery and everyday objects, offering a rare glimpse into seventeenth-century maritime trade between North Africa and Europe.
Experts describe the discovery as one of the most significant breakthroughs in maritime archaeology in recent years, providing valuable new insights into global trade routes and seafaring during the early modern period.
