Lorraine Williamson
In a significant archaeological discovery, workers have unearthed the remains of a ship believed to be around 500 years old in Barcelona. The shipwreck was found on April 8, 2025, during the construction of a new research facility near Parc de la Ciutadella.
Situated approximately five metres below the current sea level, the ship was discovered on the grounds of what was once the Mercat del Peix area—an old seafront location now surrounded by the city.
Uncovering a maritime relic
The ship is approximately 10 metres in length and 3 metres in width. It is made of wood and shows signs of significant preservation. Its structure consists of around thirty ribs and seven planks, all fastened together with wooden and iron nails. Archaeologist Santiago Palacios described the find as “exceptional”. He noted that Barcelona, with its rich history, is a city full of remarkable archaeological sites. This discovery offers a glimpse into 15th- or 16th-century shipbuilding techniques and the maritime trade of the period.
Efforts to preserve and study the shipwreck
The ship’s fragile wooden remains have been temporarily covered with wet sand to prevent further deterioration. Preservation efforts are being coordinated by the Archaeological Museum of Catalonia and a team of archaeologists, who are working to document and protect the wreck. Experts are also considering the possibility of reconstructing the ship to gain deeper insights into its design and use.
A history of maritime discoveries in Barcelona
This is not the first significant maritime find in Barcelona. In 2008, another shipwreck, ‘Barceloneta I,’ was discovered near Estació de França. Both wrecks shed light on the evolution of Barcelona’s coastline. From the 15th century onwards, the city began constructing piers, with the shoreline gradually extending through sand and silt deposits from the Besòs River.
Ongoing excavation and future discoveries
The current excavation site near Parc de la Ciutadella spans 7,000 square metres, with 15% of the area yet to be explored. As work continues, archaeologists remain hopeful of uncovering more shipwrecks or artefacts that can further illuminate Barcelona’s maritime history.
The discovery of the ‘Ciutadella I’ wreck underscores the importance of integrating archaeological research into urban development projects. It not only offers a unique opportunity to preserve Barcelona’s maritime past but also contributes to the city’s growing understanding of its historical evolution.
Global maritime finds
This discovery adds to Spain’s growing catalogue of remarkable shipwrecks, including the 2,600-year-old Phoenician ship, ‘Mazarrón II,’ found in the Murcia region in 1994. The preservation of such ships is crucial for understanding ancient shipbuilding techniques. Furthermore, modern preservation methods play an essential role in safeguarding these maritime treasures.
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