Underwater archaeologists reveal the secrets of Taukliman Bay on Bulgaria's northern Black Sea coast

Monday, 14 July 2025, 06:46

Underwater archaeologists reveal the secrets of Taukliman Bay on Bulgaria's northern Black Sea coast

PHOTO National History Museum

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Underwater archaeological research has been completed in Taukliman Bay (also known as Bird Bay), located about 6 km northeast of Cape Kaliakra. Dozens of archaeological sites of great historical value have been located in its vicinity: caves used in different eras; ancient settlements; a late antique necropolis and fortress. 
The research is part of a large-scale project of the National History Museum aimed at creating an updated catalog of ancient ports along the Bulgarian Black Sea coastDuring the research, the museum's new underwater photographic equipment was tested, as well as underwater scooters. 
Among the earliest discoveries are a stone anchor and fishing weights found west of Rusalka Island at a depth of 4 meters, fragments of early Byzantine amphorae. 
Among the most significant results of the study is the discovery of the remains of a previously unknown Western European wooden sailing ship from the mid- to late-19th century, most likely built in England. It was most likely another victim of the treacherous currents north of Cape Kaliakra, which caused the sinking of dozens of ships in the late 18th and 19th centuries.
English publication: R. Petkova
Photo: National History Museum