Roman Era Shipwrecks in the Mediterranean

Rome transitioned into a significant maritime power during the Punic Wars, specifically between 264 and 146 BC, culminating in their dominance over the Mediterranean Sea after defeating Carthage. Initially, Rome's focus was on land-based expansion in Italy, but the conflict with Carthage, a major naval power, forced them to develop their own navy.

After the Punic Wars, Rome's naval strength became an integral part of their imperial power, allowing them to project their influence across the Mediterranean and beyond.

As the number of ships engaged in both trade and war increased, so to did the number of wrecks.