What is the significance of the Svælget 2 cog ship?

The Svælget 2 is significant as the largest medieval cog ship ever discovered, representing an advanced vessel type that was the backbone of medieval trade and transformed long-distance commerce.

When was the Svælget 2 ship discovered and built?

The ship was discovered off Copenhagen recently, after being underwater for approximately 600 years. It was built in 1410.

What remarkable features were found preserved on the Svælget 2?

The Svælget 2 was found with its rigging intact, a brick-built galley, and personal items belonging to sailors, indicating a high level of preservation.

Home / Science / World's Largest Medieval Cog Found After Centuries

World's Largest Medieval Cog Found After Centuries

26 Jan

•

Summary

Largest medieval cog ship discovered off Copenhagen.
Ship, named Svælget 2, was built in 1410.
Remarkable preservation includes rigging and galley.

World's Largest Medieval Cog Found After Centuries

Danish archaeologists have announced the discovery of the world's largest medieval cog ship, named Svælget 2, off the coast of Copenhagen. The vessel, which had been underwater for approximately 600 years, was found in the Øresund strait during surveys for a new development.

Built in 1410, Svælget 2 measures around 92 feet long and 30 feet wide. Tree-ring analysis indicates its timber originated from regions now in Poland and the Netherlands. This impressive cog is noted as the largest example of its type ever discovered globally, highlighting its significance as a backbone of medieval trade.

The ship's remarkable state of preservation is attributed to seabed sand. Astonishingly, its rigging and a brick-built galley, where crew cooked meals, were found intact. Personal items like dishes and shoes were also recovered, suggesting sailors lived in relative comfort.