Cabopino’s dive could help solve the mystery of a 139-year-old shipwreck

A detective-style mission is about to take place beneath the waves near Cabopino. What’s on the sandy seabed may reveal the identity a 19th century vessel that was lost in the ocean on its journey from France to Argentina.

A campaign to explore underwater archaeology is planned for the middle of September

From September 15 to 30 the Underwater Archaeology Centre, a division of the Andalucian Historical Heritage Institute IAPH (IAPH), will lead the excavations at the Cabopino (pecio de Cabopino). The team will document the timbers, metal fittings, and cargo remains and create a detailed 3-D model of site. They will enable researchers to study delicate elements without physical touch and, over time, support virtual reconstructions for public engagement.

A 39-metre Mediterranean Merchantman on a sand floor

The site, which was first examined in 2022 by Malaga’s Culture Department, is at an average depth around six meters. Initial surveys revealed a structure measuring 39m by 15m. Construction features indicate that the vessel dates from the modern period, probably the early 20th century. The sand is being exposed by coastal movements, which means that more of the vessel’s hull, cargo, and other items onboard may still be hidden under the sand.

French tiles, barrels and other items hint at global trade routes

The wreckage still contains some of the original cargo, which gives researchers a rare glimpse into maritime commerce in the 19th century. Archaeologists found large quantities of ceramic building materials, mostly French floor and roof tiles with Marseille marks. These tiles were used from the 1870s to the early 1900s. These finds together can be used to map the distribution networks linking Mediterranean production centres and markets on both sides of the Atlantic.

Could this be an Italian brig lost in 1887?

According to historical press reports, an Italian brigbarca named Garegliano (or Gagliano) wrecked after leaving Marseille in November 1887 with construction materials bound for Buenos Aires. The identification remains to be confirmed, but the current leading theory is the overlap between archaeological evidence and documentary records.

The Cabopino campaign begins hot on the heels of work off San Pedro de Alcantara, where specialists recently took part in a study that identified another wreck as the Spanish line-of-battle ship (navio de linea) Fernando, built in Ferrol (1750–51) and lost in 1760 near Placer de las Bovedas.