Archaeological investigations along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea in Mazandaran, Iran, have brought to light a fascinating historical find: a wooden shipwreck that dates back to the late 18th or early 19th century. This discovery, the result of collaboration between the International Association for Mediterranean and Oriental Studies in Italy and the Underwater Archaeology Faculty in Tehran, has provided researchers with vital insights into maritime activity, shipbuilding practices, and trade in the region during this period. Through meticulous excavation and analysis, the shipwreck not only reveals its structural and botanical secrets but also illuminates the broader historical and environmental context of the Caspian Sea.
The Caspian Sea, the world’s largest enclosed inland body of water, is bordered by five countries: Iran, Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan. Historically, it has been a crucial route for trade, communication, and cultural exchange, and it holds a wealth of archaeological treasures beneath its surface and along its shores. The shipwreck in question, measuring 28 meters in length, came to light as rising sea levels caused erosion along a three-meter sand dune, exposing the vessel’s remains. This discovery reflects the dynamic interplay between natural processes and human activities, as the Caspian Sea has experienced fluctuating water levels over the centuries due to climate variability.
Excavations at the site were conducted over two field seasons, during which archaeologists focused on uncovering structural components of the hull, masts, and remnants of cargo. A temporary sandbag barrier was constructed to protect the site from wave erosion, allowing for careful stratigraphic documentation. This effort revealed 43 sedimentary layers, which charted the ship’s burial over centuries. Each layer provided clues about the environmental conditions and processes that contributed to the preservation and eventual exposure of the wreck.
One of the most exciting aspects of the investigation was the analysis of wood samples from the ship’s structure. Using advanced techniques like thin-section analysis and environmental scanning electron microscopy, researchers identified the types of wood used in its construction. Scots Pine and Spruce/Larch woods were predominant, suggesting origins in the Volga basin region or the Caucasus, areas well-known for their timber production during the 18th and 19th centuries. Poplar wood, used for tools aboard the ship, also highlighted the practical use of regionally available materials.
Radiocarbon dating provided critical insights into the ship’s timeline. Three wood samples from the hull were analyzed, along with buckwheat seeds found in a basket within the ship’s lowest compartment. These analyses suggested that the ship’s initial construction occurred between 1762 and 1808. However, younger timbers identified in the ship’s structure hinted at repairs made during its operational life. The combination of these findings indicates a vessel that underwent regular maintenance to extend its usefulness—a common practice for merchant ships in this era.
The ship’s cargo offered a unique glimpse into the economic activities of the time. Archaeobotanical studies revealed that the majority of the recovered plant remains consisted of buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), stored in three well-preserved wicker baskets. The triangular achenes of buckwheat were exceptionally intact, likely owing to waterlogged conditions that inhibited decomposition. Further analysis determined that the buckwheat originated from cultivation areas near the Volga River basin or the Caucasus, regions that historically supplied agricultural goods for both local consumption and trade. Associated weed seeds, including lambs quarters (Chenopodium album) and pennycress (Thlaspi arvense), pointed to the agricultural practices and environments where the buckwheat was grown.
The presence of buckwheat as a major cargo component aligns with historical records of its use as a staple food for sailors and a valuable trade commodity in the Caspian maritime economy. This finding underscores the role of the Caspian Sea as a hub of regional trade, with goods like grains, textiles, and raw materials moving between its shores. The shipwreck thus provides tangible evidence of the interconnected economic and cultural activities facilitated by this inland sea.
Beyond its cargo, the ship’s design and construction offered additional insights into its likely origins and affiliations. Structural elements and construction techniques observed during the excavation were consistent with Russian shipbuilding practices of the 18th century. This correlation suggests that the vessel may have been part of a merchant fleet operating under Russian influence, which dominated much of the Caspian maritime trade during this period. Historical records from the time further support the idea of a strong Russian presence in the region, with commercial and military interests shaping the dynamics of the Caspian economy.
The excavation’s interdisciplinary approach extended beyond archaeology and included sophisticated botanical and ecological analyses. Water sieving techniques were employed to recover microscopic plant remains, which were then examined under high-powered microscopes to identify species. These findings not only shed light on the ship’s cargo but also provided context for the broader environmental and agricultural landscapes of the Caspian region. The integration of multiple scientific disciplines into the study exemplifies the potential of modern archaeology to reconstruct detailed and nuanced histories from fragmentary evidence.
The broader implications of this discovery are significant. The shipwreck not only enriches our understanding of maritime history in the Caspian Sea but also highlights the impact of environmental change on cultural heritage. Rising and falling sea levels in the Caspian have exposed other archaeological sites and artifacts, emphasizing the need for proactive preservation and study. Furthermore, the methodologies used in this excavation can serve as a model for future underwater and coastal archaeological projects, particularly in regions where environmental conditions pose unique challenges.
The study of the Zaghemarz shipwreck in Mazandaran is a testament to the richness of Iran’s maritime heritage and its integration into larger regional and global historical narratives. By piecing together the story of this 18th-century vessel, archaeologists have not only uncovered a snapshot of life on the Caspian Sea but also contributed to our understanding of the complex interplay between environment, technology, and trade in shaping human history. This discovery serves as a reminder of the wealth of knowledge that lies hidden beneath the sands and seas, waiting to be revealed through careful investigation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Reference: Lorenzo Costantini et al, The Shipwreck of Zaghemarz, Mazandaran, Iran: Archaeology, Archaeobotany and Absolute Dating of an Eighteenth-Century Vessel of the Caspian Sea, Journal of Maritime Archaeology (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s11457-024-09430-6