A long-running underwater study off the coasts of Karpathos and Kasos has revealed a remarkable concentration of historical remains spanning more than 2,600 years.
Work began in 2019 and is being carried out by Greece’s Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities alongside the Institute of Historical Research, part of the National Research Foundation.
Researchers have focused much of their attention on waters near the ancient sites of Vrykountos and Nisyros—two members of the four-city group once referred to as the “Karpathian tetrapolis” by the geographer Strabo. Karpathos, one of the largest islands in the Dodecanese, sits in the southeastern Aegean.
It appears in early Greek literature, including Homer’s works, and is tied to mythological traditions that name it as the homeland of the Titan Iapetus and the birthplace of Proteus. So far, the team has completed more than 120 dives, exploring depths between 3 and 45 metres.
Their survey area spans northern Karpathos and the nearby island of Saria. What they found forms an almost unbroken record of human activity, stretching from the late 7th century BC through to the early 1800s. Among the standout finds are four ancient shipwrecks and one more recent wreck.
These remains offer clues about trade networks and navigation over many centuries. The team also recorded parts of merchant vessels, traces of harbour structures, and over twenty anchors dating to the Byzantine period.
When considered together with remains of homes and churches in the Tristomo area, the evidence points to the region’s importance as both a commercial hub and a strategic location, especially in Late Antiquity.
To document the sites, researchers used modern tools such as underwater photogrammetry and geospatial mapping. These methods allow for highly accurate recording and the creation of detailed digital reconstructions, which could support future study, preservation work, and even virtual access for the public.
The project brought together more than forty specialists from different fields. Participants included experts from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropological Research (INAH) and the Norwegian Maritime Museum, highlighting the international scope of the effort.
Financial support came from a mix of public bodies and private organisations. Contributors ranged from the General Secretariat for Aegean and Island Policy and the National Research Foundation to TERNA Energy and the Baltic Exchange Charitable Foundation, along with other sponsors. Local authorities and various institutions also provided technical and logistical assistance.
Header Image Credit : E. Diamantis
Sources : Greek Ministry of Culture
