Board 4. Church Rocks Wreck
Just 170 metres offshore from the sea wall lies an important shipwreck of an armed trading vessel dating from the late sixteenth century. This wreck has been designated under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973, because of its historic and archaeological significance.
In 1975, the first of six bronze cannon was found by Simon Burton, a local 13 year old, while snorkelling in the area. This was a ‘saker’ bearing the initials of the Venetian gunfounder Sigmund Alberghetti. Two further guns (‘minions’) and three swivel guns were subsequently found, all in remarkable condition.
Other important finds include a merchant’s seal, an earthenware firepot (alcancia), a bronze steelyard weight and Ming porcelain. These artefacts, including two cannon, are on display in the town museum, together with more information.
At present significant parts of the ship remain on the seabed, buried under the sand. In 1995 the television programme ‘Time Team’ featured the wreck site. Under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 it is illegal to dive within this area, or to conduct any activity, such as fishing, that would damage the site.
Your next boards
Board 5. Pier Upper Den Carriageway
Teignmouth became a fashionable resort in the Georgian and Victorian eras with the construction of the seafront buildings you see today.
Board 6. Den Entrance
The reclaimed grassy area, known as the Den, has seen a great variety of activities over the years.
