Discovery of Largest Medieval Ship Transforms Trade Understanding

Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery with the unearthing of the largest medieval cargo ship, dubbed Svaelget 2, dating back to the 1400s. This remarkable find, located in a channel off Copenhagen, Denmark, is reshaping our understanding of trade dynamics in northern Europe during the Middle Ages. Measuring 28 meters long and 9 meters wide, the ship is believed to have been capable of carrying around 300 tonnes of goods, marking it as the largest of its kind ever found.

A Milestone in Maritime Archaeology

The excavation, led by maritime archaeologist Otto Uldum from the Viking Ship Museum, has been hailed as a significant milestone in maritime archaeology. Uldum emphasized the importance of this discovery, stating, “It’s the largest cog we know of, and it gives us a unique opportunity to understand both the construction and life on board the biggest trading ships of the Middle Ages.” Built around 1410 AD, the Svaelget 2 was designed to transport large quantities of everyday goods, revolutionizing trade in northern Europe. Uldum noted that shipbuilders aimed for maximum size to accommodate bulky cargo such as salt, timber, and food items, which were essential for trade during that era.

Evidence suggests that the ship was constructed using timber sourced from two regions: Pomerania, located in modern-day Poland, and the Netherlands. Tree-ring analysis revealed that the planks were made from Pomeranian oak, while the frames originated from the Netherlands. This indicates a trade route for timber exports, highlighting the interconnectedness of European regions during the medieval period. The shipwreck was found at a depth of approximately 13 meters, remarkably well-preserved due to its protection from coastal erosion and other destructive forces.

Insights into Daily Life and Maritime Technology

Among the notable features of the Svaelget 2 are the intact “high castles,” which are large, timber-built platforms that provided elevated positions for crew members and protection during voyages. Uldum remarked on the significance of this find, stating, “We have plenty of drawings of castles, but they have never been found because usually only the bottom of the ship survives. This time we have the archaeological proof.” The discovery of these structures allows researchers to gain new insights into how cogs were equipped for sailing.

In addition to the ship’s structure, archaeologists uncovered personal items that shed light on the daily lives of the crew. Artifacts such as painted wooden dishes, shoes, combs, rosary beads, bronze cooking pots, and ceramic bowls were found, indicating that sailors brought their everyday lives aboard. Uldum noted, “These personal objects show us that the crew brought everyday items with them. They transferred their life on land to life at sea.” Although no cargo was recovered, the evidence strongly suggests that the ship was a merchant vessel, with no indications of warfare or conflict associated with it.

This remarkable find not only enhances our understanding of maritime technology but also offers a glimpse into the societal structures of the time. Uldum concluded, “Svaelget 2 gives us a tangible piece of the puzzle and makes it possible to understand how technology and society evolved side-by-side in an era when shipping was the driving force behind international trade.”