Researchers find 19th century shipwreck and possible survivor camp in Argentina

An international research team led by Nicolás C. Ciarlo from the Universidad de Cádiz identified shipwreck remains and a possible temporary settlement in Lacroix Cove on the Isla de los Estados.

This island is located off the coast of Tierra del Fuego in Argentina, a remote area of the South Atlantic often called the end of the world. The researchers believe these remains may be linked to the 1873 shipwreck of the brigantine Espora.

The team discovered several structural remains, including three different hull sections. One section preserves the lower part of a vessel, while another retains components up to the deck level. Near these structures, the team found a site labeled BF008 containing personal items and nautical components. These objects include glass beads, a bottle, ceramic buttons, and a metal piece from a rudder hinge.

The proximity of the personal items to the ship remains suggests that people lived or stayed in the area for a period of time after the maritime accident. The identification of the wreckage as the Espora remains provisional because historical accounts conflict regarding what happened after the wreck. Some records suggest the crew dismantled the ship to build a smaller vessel to reach Punta Arenas, Chile.

However, the fact that one hull section remains largely intact makes it difficult to confirm if it belongs to the Espora. The team conducted the investigation in January 2026 using the sailboats Pampa Mía and Galileo with support from the Armada Argentina. They used drones and measurements to map the site and collected samples for future analysis.