Spanish archaeologists have identified more than 30 shipwrecks in the waters between Algeciras and the Rock of Gibraltar, offering new insight into centuries of maritime activity at the ancient gateway known as the Pillars of Hercules.
Researchers say the wrecks date from as early as the fifth century BC to as late as World War II. The findings highlight the long and often dangerous history of navigation through the Strait of Gibraltar, where ships moving between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean have long converged.
A dense underwater archive of shipwrecks
A three-year project led by the University of Cádiz identified 151 archaeological sites in the bay, including 134 shipwrecks. Researchers, working with the University of Granada, have so far documented 34 of them in detail.
The remains span more than two millennia. The oldest wreck dates to the Punic era in the fifth century BC. Archaeologists also identified 23 Roman ships, along with vessels from the medieval and early modern periods. Together, they reflect continuous trade, migration, and naval activity across different eras.
Strategic waters at the Pillars of Hercules
The research forms part of Project Herakles, led by archaeologist Felipe Cerezo Andreo. He described the area as a natural bottleneck that ships have long been forced to cross.
Known in antiquity as the Pillars of Hercules, the region marked the edge of the known world for ancient sailors. Its narrow waters made it both a vital route and a risky passage, shaped by strong currents and heavy traffic.
A gunboat built for surprise attacks
Among the most notable discoveries is the wreck of the Puente Mayorga IV, a small Spanish gunboat from the late 18th century. Unlike larger warships, the vessel was designed for speed and stealth.
More than 30 shipwrecks discovered near Gibraltar reveal centuries of trade, war, and exploration at the ancient Pillars of Hercules.
From Punic ships to WWII wrecks, this underwater archive is rewriting maritime history. pic.twitter.com/7J0ujdQffT
— Tom Marvolo Riddle (@tom_riddle2025) April 15, 2026
Experts say such boats often disguise themselves as fishing vessels. At the right moment, crews would remove their nets and launch sudden attacks using cannons mounted at the front. This tactic made them effective against larger enemy ships near Gibraltar.
A personal object reveals daily life at sea
During excavation, researchers uncovered an unusual object inside the wreck. What first appeared to be a preserved book turned out to be a wooden box shaped like one.
Initial speculation suggested it could have been used to hide documents. However, closer examination revealed two wooden combs inside. The find offers a rare glimpse into the everyday life of sailors, showing that personal items were carried even on combat vessels.
Threats to underwater heritage
Experts warn that these historic sites face growing risks. Port development, dredging, and construction could damage fragile remains in the bay.
Environmental changes are also a concern. Rising sea levels can shift sediments and expose buried artifacts. Invasive algae are spreading across the seabed, covering wrecks and accelerating their decay.
Virtual access brings shipwrecks to the public
To raise awareness, researchers have created virtual models and 360-degree videos of the sites. These are shared online and in local museums, allowing the public to explore the wrecks without diving.
Visitors can also use virtual reality headsets to experience a “dryland dive.” Researchers say public engagement is key to preservation. By showing the reality of these sites, they hope to build support for protecting a unique record of maritime history at Gibraltar and the ancient Pillars of Hercules.
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