The Arqueomallornauta project, co-led by the UB, among the nominees for the 4th National Award for Archaeology and Palaeontology given by the Palarq Foundation

This project, which began in 2021 and will be active until 2028, investigates trade and navigation in the western Mediterranean during late antiquity (3rd to 7th centuries AD), focusing primarily on the wreck of Ses Fontanelles, in Palma. This exceptionally preserved wreck, with more than 320 amphorae containing oil, wine and fish sauce from the 4th century AD, is believed to have come from the southeast coast of Hispania (Cartagena). Of particular note are the nearly 100 tituli picti (painted inscriptions) on the amphorae, the largest number ever documented in a single shipwreck, and amphorae stoppers with Christian symbols, offering unique insights into trade and the Church’s possible early role in commerce. 

The project, which uses advanced interdisciplinary methods, not only expands the understanding of ancient trade networks, but also addresses the protection of underwater heritage against climate change and disseminates its findings for public education. 

The University of Barcelona is represented by professors, researchers and doctoral students from the Area for Archaeology of the Department of History and Archaeology of the Faculty of Geography and History and the Institute of Archaeology (IAUB) affiliated with the Archaeological and Archaeometric Research Team (ERAAUB), led by Miguel Ángel Cau, ICREA Research Professor and Professor of Archaeology at the UB.