Photo by © Salvo Emma – Soprintendenza del Mare
Fernbank Museum of Natural History will transport visitors 2,500 years into the past and thousands of feet beneath the Mediterranean Sea with the opening of “Sunken Treasures, Ancient Seas” on Oct. 4.
As the exclusive debut venue for this exhibition, Fernbank presents authentic artifacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks off the coast of Sicily, Italy, offering an unprecedented window into the maritime civilizations that shaped our world, according to a release from the museum.
The exhibition showcases a collection of recovered treasures including intricate jewelry, ancient coins, elaborate serving vessels, bronze and marble statuary, soldier helmets, metal ingots, and amphorae that once carried precious cargo across ancient trade routes.
“Sunken Treasures, Ancient Seas” leverages cutting-edge technology to create an unforgettable visitor experience, according to the release. High-definition video installations allow guests to witness the painstaking process of underwater excavation and artifact restoration, while detailed models of Roman warships and cargo vessels illuminate the sophisticated maritime networks that connected ancient civilizations.
A highlight of the exhibition is an interactive video experience showcasing the delicate restoration of a submerged ancient mosaic floor, demonstrating how modern archaeological techniques reveal secrets hidden beneath the waves for millennia. Visitors can also step inside a custom-designed submersible photo opportunity that simulates the thrill of deep-sea exploration and shipwreck discovery.
“This exhibition explores authentic artifacts recovered from beneath the waves, revealing fascinating insights into cultural practices, maritime trade, and military history in the Mediterranean,” Dr. Bobbi Hohmann, Fernbank’s vice president of programming & collections, said in the release. “We’re thrilled to be the first venue to host this extraordinary exhibit and share these incredible stories with our community.”
“Sunken Treasures, Ancient Seas” runs from Oct.4 , through Jan. 11, 2026, and is open daily with select after-hours events available for those seeking a unique nighttime exploration experience. The exhibition is included with general admission and free with CityPASS.
In other news, Fernbank will host “Dinosaur Trick or Treat,” a family-friendly Discovery Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, featuring additional content related to the “Sunken Treasures, Ancient Seas” exhibition. This programming is included with general admission.
Ticket prices vary by date and program, starting at $23.95 for children, $24.95 for seniors, and $25.95 for adults. Online purchases receive additional discounts, and museum members enjoy free general admission.
Visit Fernbank’s website for tickets and additional information.
