Fact of the Day More Information The Syracusia, named after his home of Syracuse (in present day Sicily, Italy) and built circa 250BC, is considered the largest ship of antiquity. About 600 people could sail comfortably, 100 of the lot in first class accommodations. This included gardened pathways, a pagan chapel dedicated to Aphrodite, a library/reading area, a gym, and baths. The problem with ships this large and heavy is the amount of water that seeps into the hull. The genius that he was, Archimedes simply invented a screw inside of a tube which when cranked easily by only one man can pull the water up and out the side of the vessel. Other famous thinkers, including Leonardo da Vinci, have theorized the use of Archimedes' Screw as a means for propulsion; eventually resulting in the modern day propeller and its form. On top of it all, the bottom of the ship was lined with lead, but due to the brilliant mind of Archimedes, the shape of the ship prevented it from sinking, almost regardless of the weight. View All Facts View Images View Maps Blog
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