Aug 20, Colombo: Sri Lanka National Archaeological Department announces that an ancient ship believed to have sunk more than 2,000 years was located close to the historical Godavaya Port, close to recently opened Hambanthota harbour.

Archaeologist Sanath Karunarathne says it is believed that the newly found ship is older than 2,000 years. Historical items including a stone bench with an ancient inscription have also been discovered among the wreckage.

The exploration programme is being carried out by the Archaeological Department with the collaboration of the Central Cultural Fund, the official said.

Godavaya was an important sea port that believed to have served as a transit point on the ancient silk route to exchange goods between the East and West.