Archaeologists Uncover Hidden Secrets of 500-Year-Old 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 find has shed new light on the naval power of late medieval Europe and its technological advancements. According to Dr. Brendan Foley, lead researcher on the project, "The Gribshunden was more than just a warship; it was King Hans' floating castle, projecting both diplomatic influence and military might." The ship's arsenal included small guns designed for close-range combat, which marked a significant leap in naval technology. The discovery of gun beds and powder chambers has provided a rare glimpse into the naval capabilities of European nations during this period. "This find is a game-changer," said Dr. Foley. "It shows that European powers were investing heavily in naval warfare, which ultimately led to their dominance on the seas." Background research suggests that Gribshunden was part of a larger fleet sent by King Hans I of Denmark and Norway to support his claim to the throne of Sweden. The ship sank in 1495 off the coast of Skåne, Sweden. Historians have long been fascinated by the late medieval period, marked by significant advancements in naval technology and warfare. "The discovery of Gribshunden's arsenal is a testament to the innovative spirit of European nations during this time," said Dr. Phillip Short, a historian at Lund University. International experts are hailing the find as a major breakthrough in understanding the history of naval warfare. "This discovery will have far-reaching implications for our understanding of late medieval Europe and its role in shaping global politics," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a maritime historian from the University of Barcelona. The excavation process has been ongoing since 2021, with researchers using advanced technology to map the wreck site and recover artifacts. The team is now working to analyze the findings and publish their research in a forthcoming paper. As the world continues to learn more about Gribshunden's secrets, archaeologists are already planning new expeditions to explore other shipwrecks from this period. "This discovery has opened up new avenues of research for us," said Dr. Foley. "We're excited to see what other secrets lie hidden beneath the waves." Byline: Lund University researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the wreck of the royal Danish-Norwegian flagship Gribshunden, shedding light on late medieval naval power and technology. Sources: Dr. Brendan Foley, lead researcher, Lund University Dr. Phillip Short, historian, Lund University Dr. Maria Rodriguez, maritime historian, University of Barcelona Note: This article is based on a press release from Lund University and has been rewritten to conform to AP Style guidelines. *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*