Government to Recover Treasures from San Jose Galleon
Colombia’s government has unveiled plans for an expedition to extract valuable artifacts from the sunken San Jose galleon, a legendary ship that went down in 1708 with a fortune in gold, silver, and emeralds. The wreck, dubbed the “holy grail” of shipwrecks, is set to be explored using an underwater robot in an operation costing over $4.5 million.
Unveiling Secrets of the Past
Culture Minister Juan David Correa revealed that the expedition aims to recover items from the galleon’s surface without altering the wreck, shedding light on the treasures lost at sea more than three centuries ago. The underwater robot will delve 600 meters below the ocean’s surface to retrieve ceramics, wood fragments, and shells.
Controversy and Secrecy Surround Discovery
The exact location of the expedition remains undisclosed to safeguard the historical significance of the find from illicit treasure hunters. The San Jose galleon, owned by the Spanish crown, met its demise during a confrontation with the British navy near Cartagena, leaving behind a wealth of riches and a tale of tragedy.
International Debate Over Bounty Ownership
The discovery of the galleon has sparked a dispute over who rightfully owns the recovered treasures. While Spain lays claim to the bounty due to the vessel’s origin, Bolivia’s Qhara Qhara nation argues for ownership, citing historical injustices perpetuated by the Spanish.
Unity Amidst Contention
Amidst the conflicting claims, Colombia’s government under President Gustavo Petro seeks to cooperate with stakeholders to secure the wreck’s artifacts and ensure they remain within the country’s borders. Discussions involving Spain, Bolivia, and experts are underway to determine the best approach to accessing and safeguarding the recovered treasures.
Legal Battles and Technological Breakthroughs
As the expedition unfolds, a legal battle between Colombia and U.S.-based salvage company Sea Search Armada intensifies, with the latter demanding a substantial sum for rights to the wreck. Recent advancements in underwater exploration have provided new insights into the San Jose’s cargo, showcasing a glimpse of the wealth lost to the depths centuries ago.