Discovery of Preserved 17th Century Merchant Ship Provides New Insights into European Life

A centuries-old merchant shipwreck was discovered off the coast of Belgium, providing new insights into European life. The ship, which ran aground over 300 years ago, was preserved by sand. Researchers, aided by old maritime records, located the wreck recently. The Flemish government supports the project, aiming to map Belgian waters. Divers have found numerous artifacts, but raising the ship is not a priority.

What natural element helped preserve the merchant ship off the coast of Belgium?

• Saltwater

• Sand

• Mud

• Coral

How did the team of archaeologists locate the shipwreck?

• By using sonar technology

• Through satellite imagery

• With the help of old maritime records

• By following local legends

Which government is supporting the project to map Belgian territorial waters?

• The German government

• The Flemish government

• The French government

• The Dutch government

What types of artifacts have divers found at the shipwreck site?

• Gold jewelry

• Copper and tin artifacts

• Ancient pottery

• Wooden sculptures

What is the current priority regarding the shipwreck?

• Raising the ship

• Preserving the artifacts

• Mapping the site

• Studying the ship's construction