A team of experimental archaeologists from the Czech Republic has launched an expedition in the Aegean Sea, beginning in the Greek port of Alexandroupoli. The project aims to recreate an ancient seafaring journey using a boat constructed from a single, hollowed-out tree trunk – a “monoxylon.” This experimental archaeology endeavor seeks to understand the capabilities and limitations of this ancient boat-building technology. Researchers will navigate the Aegean, testing the vessel’s seaworthiness and gathering data on ancient maritime practices. The monoxylon represents a significant early form of boat construction predating more complex shipbuilding techniques. The expedition intends to provide insights into prehistoric seafaring and potential migration routes in the Aegean region. The team hopes to demonstrate the feasibility of long-distance travel using this simple, yet effective, vessel type.
