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Largest Medieval Cog Ever Found Confirmed in Denmark’s Øresund

Timber analysis points to Dutch construction using imported oak, offering a rare window into late‑medieval trade networks.

Overview

  • Archaeologists from the Viking Ship Museum identified the wreck, named Svaelget 2, during seabed surveys linked to Copenhagen’s Lynetteholm project.
  • Tree‑ring dating places construction around 1410, with measurements of roughly 28 meters by 9 meters by 6 meters and an estimated cargo capacity near 300 tonnes.
  • The wreck lies about 13 meters deep with one full hull side preserved from keel to gunwale and rare rigging remains protected by sand.
  • Excavation uncovered a timber stern castle, a brick‑built galley with cookware and food traces, and personal items such as shoes, combs, painted bowls and rosary beads.
  • Outer planking was sourced from Pomerania and internal frames from the Netherlands, indicating a Dutch build; no cargo was found, supporting identification as a merchant vessel.