Bible-era Roman shipwreck yields find of a lifetime — including iconic Gladius sword and other perfectly-preserved treasures

The gravy train has nothing on the treasure ship.

Divers in a Swiss lake were gobsmacked after uncovering a 2,000-year-old Roman shipwreck filled with iconic Gladius swords, olive oil jugs and other perfectly-preserved artifacts.

“The richness and diversity of this collection of goods, in an excellent state of preservation, make this discovery exceptional,” declared archaeological officials of the find, which was the joint effort of the Cantonal Archaeology Office of Neuchâtel (OARC), alongside the Octopus Foundation and the Archaeological Service of the State of Fribourg, Jam Press reported.

The submerged vessel was discovered in Lake Neuchâtel in Western Switzerland, after aerial photography taken in 2024 unveiled signs of the precious cargo at the bottom of the water body.

A subsequent investigation in 2025 revealed that the lakebed housed a veritable treasure trove of goodies, which date back to between 20 and 50 AD and once belonged to a Roman merchant vessel.

Archaeologists found the discovery particularly extraordinary as the artifacts were grouped in a tight cluster rather than strewn about — as is usually the cause with such hauls.

While the artifacts were in excellent condition for their age, they are nonetheless under threat from erosion, boat anchors and even looters, prompting the archaeologists to rescue the most fragile objects as a precaution.

The recovered cache included several hundred surprisingly intact ceramic vessels including bowls, plates, mugs and dishes made in central Switzerland, local media reported.

They also uncovered several amphorae used to transport olive oil from Spain, alluding to the long-distance exchange of goods across the Roman Empire.

The ship’s cargo also contains remarkably well-preserved utensils, tools and wagon wheels — the only examples of their kind discovered in Switzerland.

Perhaps the most unique find was two Roman Gladius swords — a short-edged weapon used by the legionaries.

Their presence suggested that the precious cargo ship was sailing with a military escort to protect its contents from piracy.

Ultimately, the artifacts help shed light on a unique and complex trade network connected land and water, officials said.

The items will be carefully conserved and studied before being exhibited at the Laténium archaeology park and museum in Hauterive.

Researchers hope to gain insight more insight into the trade routes, technical knowledge, pottery techniques and the manufacturing and marketing of goods.