A small marble fragment has been recovered from the shipwreck of the brig Mentor near Kythira, according to a 2025 underwater excavation report released by the Ministry of Culture. The vessel, owned by Lord Elgin, was used to transport antiquities taken from Greece.
The find consists of part of a marble slab measuring 9.3 by 4.7 cm. It preserves a decorative gutta element, 6.51 cm in diameter and 2.2 cm high, similar to architectural details found on the Parthenon. This marks the first time an architectural fragment has been identified during excavations of the wreck.
The Mentor sank in September 1802 off the port of Avlemonas, in southeastern Kythira, after striking rocks. At the time, it was carrying antiquities. Lord Elgin’s secretary, William Hamilton, later organized recovery efforts, and much of the cargo was retrieved with the assistance of sponge divers.
The 2025 excavation season focused on areas to the west and north of the wreck. Archaeologists uncovered additional items, including parts of the ship’s equipment and everyday utensils.
Due to long-term exposure on the seabed, most of the ship’s wooden structure has deteriorated.
The excavation is led by archaeologist Dimitrios Kourkoumelis-Rodostamos, deputy head of the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities, supported by a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
Sources: culture.gov.gr, keeptalkinggreece.com
