What hope, what promise, what tragedy took place on August 10, 1628, in Stockholm Harbor. The events of that day are now on display in a museum built to showcase the warship, Vasa, and its story.
Background of the Vasa
In 1628, the continent of Europe was at war, again. King Gustavus Aldolphus of Sweden was maneuvering to be a player in the developing continental alliances. Sweden was at war with Poland, and the Thirty Years’ War, pitting Protestants against Catholics was in full swing.
Because Gustavus Aldolphus was impatient to join the fighting, he commissioned several large battle ships to be built, among them the Vasa. This ship, he believed, would enable him to dominate the Baltic and exemplify his power as a major ruler.
The ship was designed by Dutch shipbuilders, but the King wanted more fire power, a sleeker body, and many beautifications to the exterior. The result was a disaster. Too much weight, not enough keel, and lacking adequate ballast were a recipe for failure.
Vasa’s Voyage
On August 10, 1628, the crowds of Stockholm gathered around the islands leading out of the city. The magnificent Vasa was on her maiden voyage. Banners streaming, crew lining the rails, gun decks open, she maneuvered toward the harbor’s mouth. But rounding an island, she caught a gust of wind. The captain was able to avoid capsizing once, but not a second time. With the windows for the two decks of guns wide open, the tall mast reaching far above the main deck, the Vasa simply rolled over, took on water, and sank.
Vasa’s Fate
For 333 years, until 1961, Vasa lay on the bottom of Stockholm harbor. Immediately after the sinking, attempts were made to salvage the ship and its contents. Some things could be brought to the surface, but for the most part, the Vasa remained in her watery grave.
An inquest was held following the sinking, but no one was found guilty. Shipbuilders had followed the plans, designers had worked out how to include all the armament and decoration requested, sailors had done their duties and the captain was not negligent.
Divers searched the wreckage many times and tried to figure out how to raise the Vasa. Primitive salvage methods didn’t work. Finally in 1961, a team was able to devise a floatation system whereby the ship was brought up and installed in a specially constructed museum.
The Vasa Museum
One of the highlights of a trip to Stockholm is a visit to the Vasa Museum. The outside of the building containing the resurrected ship resembles a naval vessel with masts. Inside, there are six levels of exhibits and the huge Vasa itself. Each level depicts another aspect of the story and provides information about the world’s oldest complete ship.
There are thousands of artifacts and even skeletons that were found on the harbor bottom. A video showing the raising of the Vasa is of special interest. Docent led tours are offered throughout the day in several languages.
The museum is dimly lit and climate controlled in order to preserve the historic Vasa. From the bottom floor, the vast size of the ship comes into view. As one climbs up from level to level, more and more of the unique features are discovered.
The ballast holds, the crew quarters, the gun decks, the rigging and the sails change perspective with each level. Displays surrounding the Vasa itself depict the ship’s potential and expectations for showing the might of the Swedish king.
Vasa’s Wood Carvings
On the exterior of the Vasa, many craftsmen labored to adorn the ship with carvings to glorify King Gustavus Aldolphus, the Swedish nation, and its wealth. Particularly on the rear of the ship a vast montage of figures, images, and intricate artwork painted in brilliant colors was arrayed.
While some of the paint washed off after centuries in the sea, enough remained for archeologists to recreate some of its former beauty. Modern technology allows for computer images to be overlaid on the ancient wood and show the highlights.
Every one who visits the Vasa museum finds some aspect of fascination. There are so many interactive displays, movies, models, and stunning visuals to behold. It is a must-see in Stockholm.
Ethel Brodie - Intrigued by the world, encouraged to write my observations, published in newspapers and magazines, and sharing special places.
