Archaeologists Uncover Hidden Riches of 16th-Century Royal Warship Wreck

FORGOTTEN ROYAL WARSHIP SUNK 500 YEARS AGO REVEALS SURPRISING SECRETS LUND, SWEDEN - Archaeologists from Lund University have made a groundbreaking discovery in the wreck of the royal Danish-Norwegian flagship Gribshunden, which sank over 500 years ago. The research team has uncovered a rare glimpse into the naval power of the late Middle Ages, revealing an arsenal of small guns designed for close-range combat. According to Dr. Brendan Foley, lead archaeologist on the project, "The discovery of these gun beds and powder chambers is significant because it shows that European nations were already experimenting with new technologies in the 15th century." Foley's team has been excavating the wreck site since 2019 and has made several notable finds, including a rare example of a medieval gun bed. Gribshunden was a state-of-the-art warship built for King Hans of Denmark-Norway in the late 1480s. It sank off the coast of Sweden in 1495 during a voyage to Norway. The ship's design and armament were revolutionary for its time, featuring a combination of traditional sailing vessels and advanced artillery. "This find is not just about a shipwreck; it's about understanding how European nations projected power and influence on the seas," said Dr. Phillip Short, co-author of the study. "Gribshunden was more than just a warship - it was a symbol of royal authority and a tool for diplomacy." The discovery provides valuable insights into the naval warfare of the late Middle Ages, a period marked by significant technological advancements in Europe. The Gribshunden's arsenal of small guns, designed for close-range combat, allowed European nations to dominate the seas. "This find is a game-changer for historians and archaeologists studying the medieval period," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a historian at the University of Copenhagen. "It shows that European nations were already experimenting with new technologies in the 15th century, which paved the way for their dominance on the seas." The research team plans to continue excavating the wreck site and analyzing the artifacts found so far. The study's findings have been published in a recent issue of the Journal of Archaeological Science. As the world continues to explore its maritime past, the discovery of Gribshunden's secrets offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex history of naval warfare and diplomacy. *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*