The recovery project of the Roman shipwreck discovered at Ses Fontanelles is entering a decisive phase with the launch of a procurement process for the supply of machinery, infrastructure, and technical equipment required to ensure a safe and controlled extraction of the vessel. This operation will make it possible to transfer the remains to suitable facilities for conservation, treatment, and desalination.

This intervention forms part of a comprehensive programme aimed at protecting, studying, and enhancing one of the most significant underwater archaeological sites in the western Mediterranean. Dating back to the 4th century AD, the ship represents an exceptional archaeological find due to both its state of preservation and the valuable insights it provides into Roman maritime navigation and trade.

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The key stage begins with the recovery of the Roman shipwreck

The supply contract has been structured into four separate lots to improve technical efficiency and encourage broader participation by specialised companies. The first lot includes equipment for the conservation and desalination of the archaeological timbers, such as tanks, water systems, misting devices, and work platforms. The second lot covers the installation of protective tents required for preliminary work before the immersion treatment of the wooden elements. The third lot comprises auxiliary machinery for material transport and sediment removal, while the fourth lot relates to the floating infrastructure needed to support extraction operations.

The total maximum budget allocated for this procurement amounts to €69,078.65, VAT included, distributed among the four lots according to their operational scope and technical requirements.

The project is being carried out in accordance with rigorous archaeological conservation standards and has received international scientific endorsement. At the same time, cultural outreach initiatives are being developed to present the research findings and historical significance of the Roman shipwreck to the public, through an exhibition scheduled to open in the coming months.