Colombia Approves Historic Recovery of $17 Billion San José Shipwreck

The recovery operation for the 316-year-old Spanish galleon, considered the most valuable treasure in human history, is set to begin in April.

The San José galleon, sunk by British warships in 1708 with 200 tons of silver, emeralds, and 11 million gold coins, will be recovered next month.
Colombian authorities and several agencies are collaborating in the recovery effort, investing over $1 million in the process.
The shipwreck has been the subject of legal battles, with Colombia, Spain, and a U.S. salvage company among those claiming rights.
An underwater robot will be used to remove items from the wreck without damaging it, ahead of a full recovery operation.
The recovery is hailed as a model of comprehensive public management of archaeological sites and cultural assets.