Colombia to Investigate Wreckage of Treasure-Laden Ship
Colombian Institute Begins Expedition to Examine Sunken San Jose Ship
The Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH) recently announced the commencement of the first phase of an expedition to examine the wreckage of the San Jose ship, located off the port city of Cartagena. In this phase, the wreckage will be photographed using remote sensors to gather valuable data.
The investigation, as stated by ICANH, has the potential to uncover significant discoveries, possibly leading to the extraction of treasure from the shipwreck. To ensure the preservation of its scientific and archaeological value, the wreck has been deemed a “protected archaeological site.”
In December 2015, the Colombian government revealed the discovery of the Spanish galleon San Jose, which sank in the 18th century in the Caribbean Sea near Cartagena. The ship, carrying a cargo of gold bars, precious stones, and jewels valued at nearly $17 billion, met its demise on June 8, 1708, following an attack by English pirates intent on seizing the treasure.
The ownership of the San Jose treasures remains a topic of contentious debate. Spain asserts its right to the treasure, citing sovereign immunity per the 2001 UNESCO convention. In contrast, Colombia maintains that the ship was discovered within its territory, arguing that San Jose belongs to the state.
The ongoing expedition and investigations into the San Jose shipwreck hold the promise of shedding light on a significant historical event and potentially resolving the conflict of ownership surrounding its valuable cargo.
