Underwater surveys near Ashqelon revealed a large number of different types of anchors, testifying to 3500 years of sea trade off the southern coast of Israel. Of the dozens of anchors found at Ashqelon, thirteen are inscribed. The large number of engraved anchors seems to derive from the region’s physical characteristics that made navigation difficult along the coastline, rendering its waters dangerous for shipping. Thus, the large number of engravings and inscriptions on the anchors was probably intended to assure the well-being of their users.