Roman archaeological heritage ·
Bou Ferrer wreck and Vilamuseu: visit the Roman heritage of Villajoyosa
30 minutes from El Campello you'll find Vilamuseu, Villajoyosa's BIC museum that holds findings from the Bou Ferrer — one of the best-preserved Roman wrecks in the Mediterranean, sunk in the 1st century AD with its cargo of garum and wine amphorae intact.
What is the Bou Ferrer?
The Bou Ferrer is a Roman merchant ship sunk at the end of the 1st century AD off the coast of Villajoyosa, discovered in 1999 by local fishermen. It is the deepest Roman wreck found in the Mediterranean (25 m depth). It was transporting around 3,000 amphorae of garum (fish sauce, Roman liquid gold) and Baetican wine. The underwater archaeological project has been recovering pieces for years.
Vilamuseu: BIC museum
Vilamuseu is the archaeological museum of Villajoyosa, declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 2023 for its heritage value. It exhibits Bou Ferrer pieces (complete amphorae, hull fragments, coins, mosaics), plus findings from the whole area since the Bronze Age. Designed for family visits with children's activities, audioguide in 6 languages and archaeological remains visitable in situ under the museum.
Other related visits in Villajoyosa
Roman baths of Allon (visitable, 5 min walk from Vilamuseu). Roman Villa of Xauxelles (guided tour). Punic tombs of Poble Nou. Roman Vila Joiosa tour: Vilamuseu organises combined guided visits lasting 2-3 hours. Book online.
Consejos prácticos
- Vilamuseu opens Tuesday-Sunday. Closed Mondays (except holidays).
- General admission €5-7, free under 16. Audioguide in 6 languages included.
- Book combined tours with Roman baths + Roman Villa in advance on the museum website.
- Combine Vilamuseu visit with colourful houses stroll and lunch at a fishing port restaurant.
- How to get from El Campello: TRAM line 1 to Villajoyosa (30 min) + 10 min walk.