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Two shipwrecks off Singapore provide rare insight into maritime history
- The first shipwreck dated back about 600 years and was discovered about 100 metres northwest of the rocky outcrop that forms Pedra Branca
- Excavations unearthed Chinese ceramics such as Longquan green-ware dishes and porcelain bowls
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Two historic shipwrecks, one dating back to the 14th century and the other to 1796, have been found in Singapore’s waters near Pedra Branca, offering “invaluable” insights into the country’s maritime past.
Archaeological research is ongoing, and artefacts from the finds, including rare ceramics, cannons and percussion instruments, are set to be displayed at Singapore museums later this year, the National Heritage Board (NHB) and Iseas – Yusof Ishak Institute (Iseas) announced.
The first shipwreck dated back about 600 years and was discovered about 100 metres northwest of the rocky outcrop that forms Pedra Branca. Excavations unearthed Chinese ceramics such as Longquan green-ware dishes and porcelain bowls.
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Pedra Branca was regarded as treacherous by seafarers and was home to Singapore’s earliest lighthouse. It is located 65km east of mainland Singapore.
Dr Michael Flecker, project director of maritime archaeology projects at Iseas, said the vessel contained the largest haul of Yuan dynasty porcelain ever recovered in a documented shipwreck.
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Many of these artefacts are rare pieces and one – a blue and white bottle with a flanged straight neck – is believed to be unique, Flecker said.
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