Sharp-bottomed amphorae were used to transfer liquids such as water, wine and oil. Each jar contained 18 to 22 litres. The average amphora is characterized by its narrow mouth, two vertical handles facing one another and a narrow, pointed bottom or base which serves as a third handle to the jar. Often, the shoulder of the handle is stamped with a seal marking the origin and date of produce of the goods and customs control. The Greeks already by the 7th century BC transferred their goods in amphorae stacking them on their ships in hundreds. Depending on the cargo found on shipwrecks one learns of the trade and finances of the places they came from.
Amphorae.The most common jars found on shipwrecks
30 Jul 2012
by Archaeology Newsroom
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