HALOES

Perishable Cargoes: Investigating Maritime Trade Networks in Ancient Greece

About

HALOES is a pioneering research project (2025-2026) to uncover the role of perishable cargoes in ancient maritime trade networks. It is conducted by the Institute of Historical Research (National Hellenic Research Foundation) in collaboration with the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, the Theoretical & Physical Chemistry Institute, and the Department of Conservation of Antiquities and Works of Art at the University of West Attica.

Aim

The project analyses ceramic cargo from three key Hellenistic shipwrecks, including the Kasos K4 shipwreck. By applying advanced ceramic analysis techniques, including petrographic, chemical, and morphological studies, HALOES aims to reconstruct ancient maritime trade practices and explore the transportation of perishable goods—products that typically leave no archaeological trace, such as grain or timber.

Through cutting-edge scientific methodologies like X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy, the project seeks to determine the provenance, manufacturing techniques, and economic role of ceramic cargo. This interdisciplinary approach enhances our understanding of Hellenistic trade networks, maritime routes, and economic exchange in the ancient Mediterranean.

By bridging archaeology, chemistry, and historical research, HALOES contributes significantly to the study of ancient commerce and cultural interactions, promoting innovation in maritime archaeology and expanding knowledge of the unseen aspects of ancient trade.

Funding

National Hellenic Research Foundation

Photos