A team of underwater archaeologists has made a groundbreaking discovery—a 15th-century shipwreck that could be the oldest confirmed vessel constructed using the "carvel-built" technique.
A Significant Maritime Find
Archaeologists from Stockholm's Vrak – Museum of Wrecks discovered the shipwreck, known as "Wreck 5," at the bottom of Landfjärden, south of Stockholm. The ship is believed to date back to the 1480s, with some estimates suggesting it could have been built as early as the 1460s.
Håkan Altrock, curator of the museum and lead researcher, emphasized the discovery’s importance, stating: "This ship illustrates a fascinating connection between medieval and modern shipbuilding. It has the potential to provide invaluable new insights into a crucial period in Sweden's maritime history."
An Impressive Vessel
The ship measures approximately 30 meters in length and 7 meters in width. Remarkably well-preserved, it still retains key structural elements, including its sternpost and rudder.
What sets Wreck 5 apart from other ships of its era is its construction technique. Unlike traditional Scandinavian vessels, which were built using overlapping planks (clinker-built), this ship was built using the carvel method, where planks were placed edge to edge, creating a smooth hull.
This shipbuilding technique originated in the Mediterranean during the 7th century AD and marked a major advancement, allowing for the construction of larger, more robust ships.
A Response to Naval Warfare
Researchers believe the adoption of the carvel method was a response to the introduction of cannons on ships in the 15th century. The need for stronger hulls to withstand enemy fire led to this pivotal development in naval engineering.
Dendrochronological (tree-ring) analysis conducted by specialists from Lund University revealed that the wood used for Wreck 5 originated from Möre in Kalmar municipality or eastern Blekinge, in northern Sweden. This aligns with historical records suggesting that Swedish shipbuilding in the late 15th century was influenced by continental European techniques.
Rewriting the History of Landfjärden Shipwrecks
Wreck 5 is one of five known shipwrecks in the Landfjärden area, which were once believed to be Viking ships linked to the legendary naval battle of King Olaf Haraldsson of Norway.
However, recent studies indicate that most of these wrecks date to the 17th and 18th centuries, with Wreck 5 being the oldest of them all. Initial dating attempts were inconclusive, but subsequent analysis confirmed its 15th-century origins.
The Mysteries of Wreck 5
As the Vrak Museum of Wrecks continues to explore the maritime environment of Häringe, plans are underway to launch a dedicated research project focused on Wreck 5.
Altrock expressed enthusiasm about the project’s future, stating: "We plan to apply for external funding to excavate the site. This ship is not just a relic of the past—it plays a crucial role in understanding the evolution of shipbuilding in Sweden."
This discovery not only enhances our understanding of medieval naval history but also highlights the technological innovations that shaped both naval warfare and maritime trade during the late medieval period.
A Digital Glimpse Into the Past
To facilitate further study, the Vrak Museum of Wrecks has employed photogrammetry technology, allowing researchers to examine the ship’s structure in remarkable detail.
Explore the shipwreck in a digital 3D model and delve into the secrets of Sweden’s rich maritime heritage.
