Antico porto di Atri, Archaeological site in Silvi, Italy
Antico porto di Atri is an archaeological site off the coast of Silvi featuring submerged remains of an L-shaped pier, stone slabs, columns, and various artifacts. These structures lie at depths of approximately 5 to 15 meters beneath the seabed.
The site was mentioned by ancient geographer Strabo, who described it as a small harbor with arsenals and warehouses linked to the Matrinus river. This settlement emerged during Rome's active trade expansion along the Adriatic coast.
The port served as a major trading hub during Roman times, with wine shipped in amphoras to Greece, Egypt, and Eastern Mediterranean regions. These commercial connections reveal how deeply the area participated in ancient Mediterranean commerce.
The submerged remains can be explored through diving, though visibility is often limited by sandy conditions at the seabed. It is advisable to hire an experienced local diving guide familiar with the site conditions.
The remains include architectural components made from Istrian stone, which were later reused in building Atri Cathedral in 1303. This practice of recycling ancient materials was common in the region for centuries.
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