Ancient shipwreck in Hoi An reflects maritime legacy of Southeast Asia
A recently uncovered shipwreck off the coast of Thinh My coast in Hoi An city's Cam An ward, the central province of Quang Nam, has been identified as bearing characteristics of traditional Southeast Asian ship design, following initial surveys conducted after it was partially exposed by waves on December 26, 2023.
The Hoi An Centre for Cultural Heritage Management and Preservation, in coordination with the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, under the Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City and the Quang Nam Museum, carried out a preliminary study and sampling at the site. The findings will inform evaluations of the vessel’s cultural significance and the development of suitable preservation plans.
Initial analyses revealed the vessel was constructed using Lagerstroemia (mountain crape myrtle), Hopea spp. (giam), and Pinus spp. (pine), types of wood commonly found in traditional Southeast Asian shipbuilding.
Director of the Hoi An Centre for Cultural Heritage Management and Preservation Pham Ngoc Phu noted that more than 20 shipwrecks found in the East Sea have been classified as traditional or hybrid vessels dating from the 14th to 16th centuries. The Cam An wreck likely falls within this same historical period, representing the East Sea style that blends native Southeast Asian maritime craftsmanship.
The discovery is regarded as a significant archaeological breakthrough, shedding light on the maritime and commercial history of Hoi An and the broader Vietnamese coastline. It also enhances the cultural heritage of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and underscores Vietnam’s rich legacy of seafaring and trade.
Shipwreck exhibition opens in Quang Ngai
Nearly 200 objects from shipwrecks in Vietnamese waters are on display at an exhibition that opened in the central coastal province of Quang Ngai on January 29.
