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Al Jazeera

Colombian scientists recover treasures from 'holy grail of shipwrecks'

Al Jazeera · New
Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera
New

Scientists in Colombia have recovered artifacts from a sunken Spanish galleon that's known as the holy grail of shipwrecks.

Breakdown
  • Colombian scientists recovered a cannon, coins, and a porcelain cup from the San Jose Galleon, sunk in 1708.
  • The artefacts were lifted from over 600 metres below the Caribbean Sea as part of a scientific mission. 5s
  • The San Jose carried gold, silver, and precious stones, with its cargo valued at potentially billions of dollars. 21s
  • Multiple parties, including Colombia, Spain, indigenous groups, and a US salvage firm, claim rights to the treasure. 1m 24s
  • Colombian authorities maintain the artefacts are archaeological heritage and should be kept in museums, despite ongoing legal disputes. 2m 5s
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