A 2,200-year-old Roman shipwreck reveals a secret history of emergency repairs that kept ancient trade alive across the Adriatic

An ancient Roman merchant ship, submerged for over two millennia off Ilovik, has revealed secrets of Roman seafaring. Archaeologists discovered evidence of extensive repairs using a unique marine glue, showcasing the resourcefulness of sailors. Pollen analysis within the sealant provides a ‘biological map’ of the ship’s extensive journeys, highlighting the vital role of such vessels in Roman trade.