Swedish authorities have imposed strict regulations on the retrieval and examination of a shipwreck off the coast of southern Sweden, containing 100 bottles of 19th-century Champagne and mineral water. The wreck, discovered by Polish scuba divers, has been designated as an “ancient relic,” necessitating preservation efforts to protect its historical significance.
Discovery and Initial Findings
On July 11, Polish divers found the shipwreck approximately 58 meters deep off the coast of Blekinge. Despite being registered with Sweden’s National Antiquities Office since 2016, the valuable cargo of Champagne and mineral water was only recently uncovered 20 nautical miles south of Oeland Island in the Baltic Sea. The find has attracted interest from wine and water experts eager to conduct laboratory tests on the bottles’ contents.
Preservation Efforts and Regulations
Swedish authorities have stepped in to protect the wreck, emphasizing its cultural and historical importance. Magnus Johansson, a county official, stressed the importance of preserving the ship’s integrity and forbade any removal or damage to the remains without proper authorization. Although the ship dates from the latter half of the 19th century and is not automatically classified as an ancient relic, local authorities have recognized its significance and are considering official protection measures.
Historical Significance
The shipwreck offers a rare glimpse into the late 19th-century maritime trade and the possible destinations of its cargo. Diver Tomasz Stachura speculates that the Champagne and mineral water might have been destined for the royal court in Stockholm or the Russian tsar’s residence in St. Petersburg. The well-preserved state of the discovery highlights its potential to provide valuable insights into the era’s trade and consumption patterns.
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Source: marine insight
