The Nanhai One is a remarkable Chinese merchant ship that sank into the South China Sea in the 12th century, carrying a vast cargo of over 60,000 items. Discovered in 1987 off the coast of Guangdong province, the shipwreck is one of the most significant underwater archaeological finds in history.
It provides a rare glimpse into the trade practices and maritime technology of the Song Dynasty. The cargo included ceramics, gold, silver, silk, and a wide array of everyday goods, offering valuable insights into the global trade networks of ancient China.
In 2007, after years of careful excavation, the Nanhai One was raised and placed in a custom-made saltwater tank to preserve its delicate artifacts. The shipwreck is now housed in the Guangdong Maritime Silk Road Museum, where archaeologists continue to study the items and the ship itself.
The discovery has not only expanded our understanding of ancient Chinese commerce but also highlighted the sophistication of maritime technology during the medieval period. As ongoing research reveals more details about the ship’s design, cargo, and its fateful journey, the Nanhai One remains a treasure trove of historical knowledge, shedding light on China’s role in global trade centuries ago.
