Secrets of medieval traders revealed by discovery of huge Viking ship
Related: What archaeologists are learning from the discovery of 50 extremely rare Viking skulls
Archaeologists have unearthed the largest-ever Viking "super ship", named Svaelget 2, off Copenhagen, Denmark, dating to around 1410 AD.
Measuring 28m long and capable of carrying 300 tonnes, it is the biggest Viking cargo ship ever found, prompting a re-evaluation of the scale of medieval trade in northern Europe.
The ship was constructed using timber from Pomerania (modern-day Poland) for planks and the Netherlands for frames, indicating it was built in the Netherlands.
Its exceptional preservation at 13m depth includes intact rigging and "high castles", offering unique insights into medieval ship construction and equipment.
Researchers also found personal items like painted wooden dishes, shoes, combs, and rosary beads, providing a glimpse into the daily life of its crew.