Divers have uncovered a stunning haul of perfectly preserved treasure from a 2,000-year-old Roman shipwreck lying at the bottom of a lake.
Hundreds of ancient objects were found resting on the lakebed – exactly where they settled when the vessel sank centuries ago.
Remarkably, while the boat itself has long since vanished, its cargo remains largely intact.
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The incredible discovery was made in Lake Neuchâtel, Switzerland, after aerial photography in November 2024 spotted signs of submerged heritage.
Follow-up dives and a full excavation in March 2025 revealed the extraordinary find, as reported by WhatsThe Jam.
The operation is being led by the Cantonal Archaeology Office of Neuchâtel (OARC), alongside the Octopus Foundation and the Archaeological Service of the State of Fribourg.
In a statement, officials said: “The richness and diversity of this collection of goods, in an excellent state of preservation, make this discovery exceptional, unique in Switzerland and in the inland waters north of the Alps.”
Experts believe the cargo dates from between 20 and 50 AD and once belonged to a Roman merchant vessel.
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Archaeologists said the find is particularly rare as the goods were not scattered, but preserved in a tight cluster – still reflecting how they had originally been packed and transported.
But the race is now on to protect the fragile site.
OARC warned the wreck is under threat from erosion, boat anchors and even looters.
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In a statement, the organisation said the cargo is exposed to “erosion of the lake bed, the anchoring of pleasure boats… and above all acts of vandalism and looting”.
They added that the most vulnerable items have already been recovered as a precaution.
The haul includes hundreds of intact ceramic vessels – such as dishes, plates, bowls and cups – produced across the Swiss Plateau.
Amphorae used to transport olive oil from Spain were also discovered, shedding light on long-distance Roman trade routes.
Divers also recovered tools and everyday items used by the crew, along with parts of wagons and harnesses.
Among the most remarkable finds were well-preserved wheels – believed to be the only Roman examples of their kind ever discovered in Switzerland.
Swords were also found, raising the possibility the vessel was travelling with a military escort.
Officials say the discovery offers a rare glimpse into ancient trade networks and daily life nearly two millennia ago.
The artefacts will now be carefully conserved and studied before going on display at the Laténium archaeology park and museum.
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