Byzantine period shipwreck<\/h6><\/div>Agios Petros (Kyra Panagia)<\/h3><\/div>In 1970, in the bay of Agios Petros in Kyra Panagia (also known as Pelagonisi), an impressive Byzantine shipwreck was discovered dating back to the mid-12th century AD. The ship, with estimated dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons, is a valuable piece of the maritime history of the Aegean.<\/p>\n<\/div>
<\/div><\/div><\/i><\/div><\/div>Ship type: <\/strong>Commercial<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/div><\/div>Date:<\/strong> 12th century AD.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/div><\/div>Depth:<\/strong> -34 to -40 msw<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/div><\/div>Suitable for:<\/strong> Free and scuba divers<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>Visit information<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>Table of Contents<\/div><\/div>- An important Byzantine shipwreck<\/a><\/li>
- The discovery<\/a><\/li>
- The ship<\/a><\/li>
- The cargo<\/a><\/li>
- Maritime trade in antiquity<\/a><\/li>
- Bibliography & additional information<\/a><\/li>
- Visit<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/span><\/span><\/span>
![](\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%27780%27%20height%3D%27400%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%20780%20400%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%27780%27%20height%3D%27400%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>An important Byzantine shipwreck<\/h4><\/div>In 1970, in the bay of Agios Petros in Kyra Panagia (also known as Pelagonisi), an impressive Byzantine shipwreck was discovered dating back to the mid-12th century AD. The ship, with estimated dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons, is a valuable piece of the maritime history of the Aegean.<\/p>\n
The dimensions of the ship were estimated at 25×8 meters, with a displacement of at least 100 tons. The ship’s cargo included commercial amphorae, numerous glazed tablets with elaborate engraved decoration, six millstones, as well as small quantities of lamps, amphorae, jars, pithoi and glass vials. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The discovery<\/h4><\/div>Oral testimonies indicate that the Byzantine shipwreck in the bay of Agios Petros was discovered in the early 20th century by sponge divers, just like the classical shipwreck of Fagros at the entrance to the same bay. During the 1960s, it gained intense publicity due to the case of its extensive looting by foreign antiquities smugglers, which was revealed with the confiscation of excellent quality Byzantine paintings from the 12th century AD.<\/p>\n
These events contributed to the decision of the General Directorate of Antiquities to carry out an underwater archaeological survey. The excavation was carried out under the direction of archaeologists Katerina Romiopoulou and Charalambos Kritzas, in collaboration with P. Throckmorton as technical director, marking the first large-scale underwater archaeological survey in Greece, even before the establishment of the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities. <\/p>\n
The research was carried out in the summer of 1970 and evolved into two phases. Initially, the wreck was photographed by creating a photomosaic, while sample extractions were also carried out. Subsequently, most of the ceramic finds were extracted and two test cuts were made, which revealed preserved parts of the ship’s wooden structure, such as the spars and the skin. <\/p>\n<\/div>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-01-320x202.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-01\\"")
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-02-320x202.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-02\\"")
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-03-320x202.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-03\\"")
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-04-320x202.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-04\\"")
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-05-320x202.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-expedition-05\\"")
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/eua-kyra-panagia-shipwreck-1970-expedition-01-320x202.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-shipwreck-1970-expedition-01\\"")
.<\/div>Shipwreck at Pelagonisi, 1970 (EUA Archive)<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/eua-kyra-panagia-shipwreck-1970-expedition-02-320x202.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-shipwreck-1970-expedition-02\\"")
.<\/div>Shipwreck at Pelagonisi, 1970 (EUA Archive)<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The ship<\/h4><\/div>The shipwreck of Agios Petros is an important testimony to Byzantine navigation and trade in the Aegean region during the 12th century AD. From the dimensions of the surviving parts, it is estimated that the ship had dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons. During the reconnaissance survey, a large part of the ship’s hull was found in good condition.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The cargo<\/h4><\/div>The ship\u2019s cargo included six large granite millstones and commercial amphorae of the G\u00fcnsenin III type, in two variants. These represent one of the most widespread amphora types of the Middle and Late Byzantine periods. The same amphorae were classified by Bakirtzis into the 5th group of \u201cmagaric\u201d amphorae, a testament to their wide distribution and diverse production. <\/p>\n
In addition, more than 700 glazed plates (sgraffito ware) with elaborate incised decoration were found, featuring geometric motifs as well as representations of plants and animals \u2014 both real and mythical. <\/p>\n
Objects found in smaller quantities \u2014 such as lamps, small amphorae, jugs, storage jars (pithoi), glass vials, lids of wide-mouthed vessels, and a fragmented bronze cauldron \u2014 may be attributed to the ship\u2019s equipment. Traces of both the 1970 archaeological investigation, such as a section of the perimeter line made of polypropylene, and of subsequent looting by antiquities thieves are also visible on the site, including clear breakages of amphorae and plates. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
![\"eua-kyra-panagia-orthophoto\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/eua-kyra-panagia-orthophoto.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-orthophoto\\"")
<\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>![\"eua-kyra-panagia-orthophoto-mobile\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/eua-kyra-panagia-orthophoto-mobile.webp\" "\\"eua-kyra-panagia-orthophoto-mobile\\"")
<\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i>G\u00fcnsenin III type commercial amphorae <\/span>G\u00fcnsenin III type commercial amphorae <\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>G\u00fcnsenin III type amphorae, also known in Greek scholarship as \u201cMagaric\u201d (Group V according to Bakirtzis), represent the late Middle and Late Byzantine maritime trade at its highest volume. They formed the main part of the cargo of the Agios Petros\/Pelagonnesos wreck. <\/p>\n
Despite variations in shape, G\u00fcnsenin III amphorae share common morphological features, such as an elongated body, narrow neck, and two vertical handles.
Cargoes of this type are usually homogeneous, lacking the presence of other amphora types within the same ship, suggesting an organized trade of specific goods. <\/p>\n
Type III is by far the most common Byzantine amphora in the western Aegean. Its wide distribution in shipwrecks and coasts throughout the Aegean testifies to their key role in the commerce of the time. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Glazed tableware<\/span>Glazed tableware<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>The cups and plates that formed part of a heterogeneous cargo were decorated using the sgraffito technique on a white or off-white slip. The decoration, confined to the interior surface, was executed through fine incisions. The main decorative themes include freely rendered animal figures and geometric motifs \u2014 primarily spirals developed in a central medallion or bands running along the rim. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Plates with animal representations<\/span>Plates with animal representations<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>The glazed plates decorated with representations of animals \u2014 both real and mythical \u2014 are characteristic examples of 12th-century Byzantine ceramics. They were probably used in ritual, decorative, or utilitarian contexts, reflecting the artistic expression of the period. The widespread distribution of similar plates in regions such as Thessaloniki, Athens, Constantinople, and Crimea highlights the intense movement of commercial goods and artistic products across the Eastern Mediterranean. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Plates with plants representations <\/span>Plates with plants representations <\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>Plates featuring vegetal motifs are emblematic of 12th-century Byzantine ceramic production. Their decoration includes intricate relief or incised designs of plants, flowers, and branches, often combined with geometric or animal elements. They were likely used for decorative or ritual purposes while also serving practical functions in daily life.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Agios Petros (Kyra Panagia)<\/h3><\/div>In 1970, in the bay of Agios Petros in Kyra Panagia (also known as Pelagonisi), an impressive Byzantine shipwreck was discovered dating back to the mid-12th century AD. The ship, with estimated dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons, is a valuable piece of the maritime history of the Aegean.<\/p>\n<\/div>
<\/div><\/div><\/i><\/div><\/div>Ship type: <\/strong>Commercial<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/div><\/div>Date:<\/strong> 12th century AD.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/div><\/div>Depth:<\/strong> -34 to -40 msw<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/div><\/div>Suitable for:<\/strong> Free and scuba divers<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>Visit information<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>Table of Contents<\/div><\/div>- An important Byzantine shipwreck<\/a><\/li>
- The discovery<\/a><\/li>
- The ship<\/a><\/li>
- The cargo<\/a><\/li>
- Maritime trade in antiquity<\/a><\/li>
- Bibliography & additional information<\/a><\/li>
- Visit<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
An important Byzantine shipwreck<\/h4><\/div>In 1970, in the bay of Agios Petros in Kyra Panagia (also known as Pelagonisi), an impressive Byzantine shipwreck was discovered dating back to the mid-12th century AD. The ship, with estimated dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons, is a valuable piece of the maritime history of the Aegean.<\/p>\n
The dimensions of the ship were estimated at 25×8 meters, with a displacement of at least 100 tons. The ship’s cargo included commercial amphorae, numerous glazed tablets with elaborate engraved decoration, six millstones, as well as small quantities of lamps, amphorae, jars, pithoi and glass vials. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The discovery<\/h4><\/div>Oral testimonies indicate that the Byzantine shipwreck in the bay of Agios Petros was discovered in the early 20th century by sponge divers, just like the classical shipwreck of Fagros at the entrance to the same bay. During the 1960s, it gained intense publicity due to the case of its extensive looting by foreign antiquities smugglers, which was revealed with the confiscation of excellent quality Byzantine paintings from the 12th century AD.<\/p>\n
These events contributed to the decision of the General Directorate of Antiquities to carry out an underwater archaeological survey. The excavation was carried out under the direction of archaeologists Katerina Romiopoulou and Charalambos Kritzas, in collaboration with P. Throckmorton as technical director, marking the first large-scale underwater archaeological survey in Greece, even before the establishment of the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities. <\/p>\n
The research was carried out in the summer of 1970 and evolved into two phases. Initially, the wreck was photographed by creating a photomosaic, while sample extractions were also carried out. Subsequently, most of the ceramic finds were extracted and two test cuts were made, which revealed preserved parts of the ship’s wooden structure, such as the spars and the skin. <\/p>\n<\/div>
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Shipwreck at Pelagonisi, 1970 (EUA Archive)<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Shipwreck at Pelagonisi, 1970 (EUA Archive)<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The ship<\/h4><\/div>The shipwreck of Agios Petros is an important testimony to Byzantine navigation and trade in the Aegean region during the 12th century AD. From the dimensions of the surviving parts, it is estimated that the ship had dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons. During the reconnaissance survey, a large part of the ship’s hull was found in good condition.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The cargo<\/h4><\/div>The ship\u2019s cargo included six large granite millstones and commercial amphorae of the G\u00fcnsenin III type, in two variants. These represent one of the most widespread amphora types of the Middle and Late Byzantine periods. The same amphorae were classified by Bakirtzis into the 5th group of \u201cmagaric\u201d amphorae, a testament to their wide distribution and diverse production. <\/p>\n
In addition, more than 700 glazed plates (sgraffito ware) with elaborate incised decoration were found, featuring geometric motifs as well as representations of plants and animals \u2014 both real and mythical. <\/p>\n
Objects found in smaller quantities \u2014 such as lamps, small amphorae, jugs, storage jars (pithoi), glass vials, lids of wide-mouthed vessels, and a fragmented bronze cauldron \u2014 may be attributed to the ship\u2019s equipment. Traces of both the 1970 archaeological investigation, such as a section of the perimeter line made of polypropylene, and of subsequent looting by antiquities thieves are also visible on the site, including clear breakages of amphorae and plates. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i>G\u00fcnsenin III type commercial amphorae <\/span>G\u00fcnsenin III type commercial amphorae <\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>G\u00fcnsenin III type amphorae, also known in Greek scholarship as \u201cMagaric\u201d (Group V according to Bakirtzis), represent the late Middle and Late Byzantine maritime trade at its highest volume. They formed the main part of the cargo of the Agios Petros\/Pelagonnesos wreck. <\/p>\n
Despite variations in shape, G\u00fcnsenin III amphorae share common morphological features, such as an elongated body, narrow neck, and two vertical handles.
Cargoes of this type are usually homogeneous, lacking the presence of other amphora types within the same ship, suggesting an organized trade of specific goods. <\/p>\n
Type III is by far the most common Byzantine amphora in the western Aegean. Its wide distribution in shipwrecks and coasts throughout the Aegean testifies to their key role in the commerce of the time. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Glazed tableware<\/span>Glazed tableware<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>The cups and plates that formed part of a heterogeneous cargo were decorated using the sgraffito technique on a white or off-white slip. The decoration, confined to the interior surface, was executed through fine incisions. The main decorative themes include freely rendered animal figures and geometric motifs \u2014 primarily spirals developed in a central medallion or bands running along the rim. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Plates with animal representations<\/span>Plates with animal representations<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>The glazed plates decorated with representations of animals \u2014 both real and mythical \u2014 are characteristic examples of 12th-century Byzantine ceramics. They were probably used in ritual, decorative, or utilitarian contexts, reflecting the artistic expression of the period. The widespread distribution of similar plates in regions such as Thessaloniki, Athens, Constantinople, and Crimea highlights the intense movement of commercial goods and artistic products across the Eastern Mediterranean. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Plates with plants representations <\/span>Plates with plants representations <\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>Plates featuring vegetal motifs are emblematic of 12th-century Byzantine ceramic production. Their decoration includes intricate relief or incised designs of plants, flowers, and branches, often combined with geometric or animal elements. They were likely used for decorative or ritual purposes while also serving practical functions in daily life.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
In 1970, in the bay of Agios Petros in Kyra Panagia (also known as Pelagonisi), an impressive Byzantine shipwreck was discovered dating back to the mid-12th century AD. The ship, with estimated dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons, is a valuable piece of the maritime history of the Aegean.<\/p>\n<\/div>
- An important Byzantine shipwreck<\/a><\/li>
- The discovery<\/a><\/li>
- The ship<\/a><\/li>
- The cargo<\/a><\/li>
- Maritime trade in antiquity<\/a><\/li>
- Bibliography & additional information<\/a><\/li>
- Visit<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/span><\/span><\/span>An important Byzantine shipwreck<\/h4><\/div>
In 1970, in the bay of Agios Petros in Kyra Panagia (also known as Pelagonisi), an impressive Byzantine shipwreck was discovered dating back to the mid-12th century AD. The ship, with estimated dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons, is a valuable piece of the maritime history of the Aegean.<\/p>\n
The dimensions of the ship were estimated at 25×8 meters, with a displacement of at least 100 tons. The ship’s cargo included commercial amphorae, numerous glazed tablets with elaborate engraved decoration, six millstones, as well as small quantities of lamps, amphorae, jars, pithoi and glass vials. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The discovery<\/h4><\/div>
Oral testimonies indicate that the Byzantine shipwreck in the bay of Agios Petros was discovered in the early 20th century by sponge divers, just like the classical shipwreck of Fagros at the entrance to the same bay. During the 1960s, it gained intense publicity due to the case of its extensive looting by foreign antiquities smugglers, which was revealed with the confiscation of excellent quality Byzantine paintings from the 12th century AD.<\/p>\n
These events contributed to the decision of the General Directorate of Antiquities to carry out an underwater archaeological survey. The excavation was carried out under the direction of archaeologists Katerina Romiopoulou and Charalambos Kritzas, in collaboration with P. Throckmorton as technical director, marking the first large-scale underwater archaeological survey in Greece, even before the establishment of the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities. <\/p>\n
The research was carried out in the summer of 1970 and evolved into two phases. Initially, the wreck was photographed by creating a photomosaic, while sample extractions were also carried out. Subsequently, most of the ceramic finds were extracted and two test cuts were made, which revealed preserved parts of the ship’s wooden structure, such as the spars and the skin. <\/p>\n<\/div>
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>.<\/div>Excavation at the shipwreck of Agios Petros (Pelagonisi), 1970<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Shipwreck at Pelagonisi, 1970 (EUA Archive)<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>
.<\/div>Shipwreck at Pelagonisi, 1970 (EUA Archive)<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The ship<\/h4><\/div>
The shipwreck of Agios Petros is an important testimony to Byzantine navigation and trade in the Aegean region during the 12th century AD. From the dimensions of the surviving parts, it is estimated that the ship had dimensions of 25×8 meters and a displacement of at least 100 tons. During the reconnaissance survey, a large part of the ship’s hull was found in good condition.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The cargo<\/h4><\/div>
The ship\u2019s cargo included six large granite millstones and commercial amphorae of the G\u00fcnsenin III type, in two variants. These represent one of the most widespread amphora types of the Middle and Late Byzantine periods. The same amphorae were classified by Bakirtzis into the 5th group of \u201cmagaric\u201d amphorae, a testament to their wide distribution and diverse production. <\/p>\n
In addition, more than 700 glazed plates (sgraffito ware) with elaborate incised decoration were found, featuring geometric motifs as well as representations of plants and animals \u2014 both real and mythical. <\/p>\n
Objects found in smaller quantities \u2014 such as lamps, small amphorae, jugs, storage jars (pithoi), glass vials, lids of wide-mouthed vessels, and a fragmented bronze cauldron \u2014 may be attributed to the ship\u2019s equipment. Traces of both the 1970 archaeological investigation, such as a section of the perimeter line made of polypropylene, and of subsequent looting by antiquities thieves are also visible on the site, including clear breakages of amphorae and plates. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/i> <\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i>G\u00fcnsenin III type commercial amphorae <\/span>G\u00fcnsenin III type commercial amphorae <\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>G\u00fcnsenin III type amphorae, also known in Greek scholarship as \u201cMagaric\u201d (Group V according to Bakirtzis), represent the late Middle and Late Byzantine maritime trade at its highest volume. They formed the main part of the cargo of the Agios Petros\/Pelagonnesos wreck. <\/p>\n
Despite variations in shape, G\u00fcnsenin III amphorae share common morphological features, such as an elongated body, narrow neck, and two vertical handles.
Cargoes of this type are usually homogeneous, lacking the presence of other amphora types within the same ship, suggesting an organized trade of specific goods. <\/p>\nType III is by far the most common Byzantine amphora in the western Aegean. Its wide distribution in shipwrecks and coasts throughout the Aegean testifies to their key role in the commerce of the time. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Glazed tableware<\/span>Glazed tableware<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>The cups and plates that formed part of a heterogeneous cargo were decorated using the sgraffito technique on a white or off-white slip. The decoration, confined to the interior surface, was executed through fine incisions. The main decorative themes include freely rendered animal figures and geometric motifs \u2014 primarily spirals developed in a central medallion or bands running along the rim. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Plates with animal representations<\/span>Plates with animal representations<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>The glazed plates decorated with representations of animals \u2014 both real and mythical \u2014 are characteristic examples of 12th-century Byzantine ceramics. They were probably used in ritual, decorative, or utilitarian contexts, reflecting the artistic expression of the period. The widespread distribution of similar plates in regions such as Thessaloniki, Athens, Constantinople, and Crimea highlights the intense movement of commercial goods and artistic products across the Eastern Mediterranean. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i>Plates with plants representations <\/span>Plates with plants representations <\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>Plates featuring vegetal motifs are emblematic of 12th-century Byzantine ceramic production. Their decoration includes intricate relief or incised designs of plants, flowers, and branches, often combined with geometric or animal elements. They were likely used for decorative or ritual purposes while also serving practical functions in daily life.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
- The discovery<\/a><\/li>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/eua-agios-petros-pelagonisi-\u0392\u03952007_19-08.webp\" "\\"eua-agios-petros-pelagonisi-\u0392\u03952007_19-08\\"")
<\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/euaculture.gr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/eua-agios-petros-pelagonisi-\u0392\u03952007_19-09.webp\" "\\"eua-agios-petros-pelagonisi-\u0392\u03952007_19-09\\"")
<\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>