Desilo

Desilo is an underwater archaeological site in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, located near the Neretva (or Narenta) river and the Croatian border. The site was first discovered in the late 20th century, but Desilo's history can be traced as far back as ancient times. Investigations led by Professor Snjezana Vasilj of the University of Mostar and her archaeological team, uncovered in 2007 many sunken boats at the bottom of the small lake in Desilo valley. The archaeologists believe these boats to be Illyrian ships, dating back to the first and second centuries B.C. Further excavations in 2008 by University of Oslo archaeologists found evidence suggesting that Desilo was an Illyrian trading post. These archaeological findings are significant because they are the first known discovery of Illyrian ships. Additionally, Desilo functioning as a trading centre suggests there were peaceful interactions between the Illyrians and the Romans. thumb|Map of tribe distribution

==History== The underwater archaeological site of Desilo was first discovered and recorded officially in 1972. It resides 20 kilometers from the coast of the Neretva river. In the era of ancient Bosnia and Herzegovina, Neretva was home to the ancient Illyrian tribes Ardiaei and Daorsi (or Daversi). Desilo is located near multiple land traffic passageways in the direction of Daorsi capital Daorson, as well as the Roman colony Narona. Today, Desilo lay within Hutovo Blato, a nature park on the Neretva river. Archaeological research in 2007 and 2008 provided archaeologists and historians with information about Desilo's function and significance in ancient times.