Look at what archaeologists have found at Millet: "This is one of the most important discoveries in the Mediterranean".

Archeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery off the coast of Mljet, describing it as one of the most significant finds on the Mediterranean. The site includes a Byzantine shipwreck dating back to the 7th or 8th century, which was identified through years of underwater archaeological research conducted by the Croatian Institute for Restoration, Department of Underwater Archaeology. Led by Igor Miholjek and Pavle Dugonjić, these efforts spanned nearly two decades, uncovering over twenty previously unknown shipwrecks ranging from the 2nd century AD to the 16th century. Among them, the Byzantine wreck stands out due to its exceptionally rich cargo and historical significance. The investigation into this particular wreck began in 2015, with nine field campaigns carried out under the supervision of the institute. The most valuable find consists of four golden belt buckles, gold clasps, and belt rings adorned with emeralds, rubies, and beads, luxurious elements used to decorate the leather belts of high-ranking Byzantine officials. These items had not been found in the Mediterranean before, offering rare insight into the material culture of the period. In addition to the ornate jewelry, archaeologists uncovered four imperial seals belonging to emperors from the Heraclius dynasty, dated to around the late 7th century. These seals provide crucial evidence for pinpointing the time of the ship’s sinking. A particularly notable artifact is a gilded ring depicting an emperor from the Heraclius dynasty. Such a ring would have belonged exclusively to someone of the highest state or military rank, authorized to stamp imperial documents. It is believed the ring could have served as a diplomatic gift or personal item of a high-ranking Byzantine official, indicating both the importance of the individual and the value of the cargo he transported. Alongside the luxurious items, the ship carried a wealthy trade load consisting of amphorae, trading weights, white stones, and ceramic tableware including bowls, jars, and plates. Mljet, located on one of the most important maritime routes connecting the eastern and western Mediterranean, has long been a strategic location. It is speculated that the ship attempted to seek shelter in the bay of Polače, which, thanks to its ancient palace and secure position, served as a safe haven for ships during adverse weather conditions for centuries. This theory aligns with the geographical context of the wreck's location and the historical role of the area as a key hub in Mediterranean trade. The ongoing investigations involve a team of divers from the Police Intervention Command of the Ministry of the Interior, led by Mario Orlandini, along with the diving center Aquatica Mljet and the company NavArchos, headed by Dr. Anton Divić. This year’s research is being conducted in collaboration with a team of archaeologists from Stanford University, led by Professor Justin Leidwanger, who focus on analyzing the ship's cargo, especially the amphorae and ceramic wares. Long-term partners in the project include esteemed experts such as Prof. Dr. Falko Daim and Dr. Levante Samu, who analyze the technology behind the production and decorative motifs of the golden belt buckles. Numismatic findings are examined by Dr. Sc. Željko Demo. Their combined expertise contributes to a deeper understanding of the artifacts and their historical context.