A recent study, published in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on March 20, 2024, sheds light on the technologically advanced boats used by people more than 7,000 years ago to navigate the Mediterranean Sea. Led by Juan F. Gibaja from the Spanish National Research Council, Barcelona, the research unveils remarkable insights into ancient seafaring technology through the analysis of canoes discovered at the Neolithic lakeshore village of La Marmotta, near Rome, Italy.
During the Neolithic period, communities around the Mediterranean Sea engaged in extensive travel and trade, evident from the archaeological discoveries of watercraft and settlements along coasts and islands. The excavation at La Marmotta unearthed five canoes dating between 5700 and 5100 BC, constructed from hollowed-out trees (dugout canoes). Analysis of these vessels reveals their exceptional craftsmanship, with advanced construction techniques such as transverse reinforcements and the use of four different types of wood—a rarity among similar archaeological sites.
One particular canoe stands out as it is associated with three T-shaped wooden objects, possibly used for securing ropes tied to sails or other maritime components. These findings, along with reconstruction experiments, indicate that these canoes were seaworthy vessels, supported by the discovery of stone tools linked to nearby islands at the site.
The researchers highlight the exceptional nature of these prehistoric boats, showcasing the detailed understanding of structural design, wood properties, and specialized labor required for their construction. Drawing parallels between these ancient vessels and modern nautical technologies, the study suggests that significant advancements in sailing occurred during the early Neolithic period.
The study underscores the importance of direct dating of Neolithic canoes from La Marmotta, revealing them as the oldest known in the Mediterranean and providing invaluable insights into ancient navigation techniques. Furthermore, it hints at the possibility of more preserved boats awaiting discovery near La Marmotta, offering exciting prospects for future research.
In conclusion, the research illuminates the remarkable technological sophistication of early agricultural and pastoral communities, emphasizing their woodworking skills and the construction of complex vessels that facilitated their maritime endeavors.
