Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of a colossal medieval 'super ship' off the coast of Denmark, believed to be the largest cog ever found. Dating back 600 years, the vessel measures approximately 28 metres in length, nine metres in width, and six metres in height, with a cargo capacity of around 300 tonnes.
The ship, named 'Svælget 2' after the channel where it was discovered, is exceptionally well preserved. Divers have recovered personal items such as painted wooden dishes, shoes, combs, and rosary beads, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of the crew. The wreck also retains traces of rigging and a timber-built stern castle, a covered deck that provided shelter.
Excavation leader Otto Uldum described the find as 'a milestone for maritime archaeology'. He noted that the ship's brick-built galley, the earliest example from Danish waters, indicates remarkable comfort and organisation on board, allowing sailors to cook hot meals over an open fire.
The cog was an efficient vessel capable of being sailed by a small crew even when heavily loaded. It was designed for hazardous voyages from the Netherlands to Baltic trading towns. The wreck lay at a depth of 13 metres, shielded from destructive forces by a covering of sand.
Archaeologists used underwater vacuum cleaners to remove centuries of sediment. While no cargo has been found, the discovery provides unprecedented insight into 15th-century maritime life and shipbuilding.
