Relics Retrieved from the Titanic’s Sister Ship, HMHS Britannic
The Greek government has announced the recovery of maritime relics from the wreck of Titanic’s sister ship, over 100 years after the ship was lost in the Aegean Sea by a German mine.
This mission was carried out in spring but revealed on this week, when the heritage agency shared information about the discoveries.
An 11-member team professional deep-sea divers using advanced rebreathers carried out the recovery, which was led by a historical researcher.
Among the artifacts salvaged were the ship's lookout bell, a portside navigation lamp, optical equipment, ceramic tiles from onboard spa areas, and equipment from passenger cabins.
The artefacts were secured in protective cases and immediately cleaned of sea deposits.
Afterward, they were moved to the conservation labs of the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities in the city, where preservation efforts will take place.
A number of items targeted in the original plan were unable to be salvaged due to their deterioration and location.
These artifacts are scheduled to go on exhibit at the new National Museum of Underwater Antiquities in the port city, within a section dedicated to the First World War.
This historic vessel was the last of the maritime firm’s Olympic class of steamships, together with the Titanic and RMS Olympic.
The ship was commandeered by the British Admiralty during the war to serve as a hospital ship.
In November 1916, it hit a enemy mine off the island of Kea and submerged in under 60 minutes.
From among 1,065 people aboard, there were 30 fatalities when escape vessels were drawn toward the vessel’s spinning blades.
