Maritime archaeologists from Vrak – Museum of Wrecks are investigating a shipwreck in Landfjärden, south of Stockholm, that may be the oldest known carvel-built vessel from the Nordic region.
Preliminary analysis dates the ship to the 1480s, with some indications it could be even older, possibly from the 1460s. (Photo: Jim Hansson / Vrak / SMTM / CC-BY)
The wreck, known as Wreck 5, measures approximately 35 metres long and 10 metres wide. Despite centuries underwater, parts of its structure remain remarkably intact. “The ship’s frame still rises high above the seabed, and in the stern, both the sternpost and rudder remain upright,” said Håkan Altrock, museum curator and the project manager overseeing the investigation.
A shift in shipbuilding techniques
Unlike the clinker-built ships typical of the time, this vessel was constructed using the carvel method, in which planks are laid edge to edge on a frame to create a smooth hull. This technique, which became more common in later centuries, allowed for the construction of larger and more durable ships.
Revisiting old assumptions
Wreck 5 is one of five shipwrecks discovered in Landfjärden. Previously, historical records suggested that they could be Viking ships, but research has disproved this. “A year ago, we dated three of the four largest wrecks to the 1600s and 1700s and linked one to a historical source from the 17th century,” Altrock explained.
Plans for further research
Dendrochronological analysis has confirmed that the timber used in Wreck 5 was felled either in Möre, in the Kalmar region, or in eastern Blekinge. Archaeologists now aim to establish the wreck as a dedicated research project. “We plan to apply for external funding for an excavation,” Altrock noted. “This ship bridges the gap between medieval and modern shipbuilding and offers valuable insights into Sweden’s maritime history.”
A vessel built for change
The carvel construction technique is believed to have emerged in response to the introduction of onboard cannons in the 15th century. Stronger hulls were required to withstand enemy fire, and this method allowed for greater stability and durability at sea. Wreck 5 could offer new perspectives on how Nordic shipbuilding evolved during this critical period.
