Danish Warship Dannebroge Discovered

Marine archaeologists have discovered the wreck of the Danish warship Dannebroge in Copenhagen Harbor. The ship sank in 1801 during the Battle of Copenhagen, a pivotal naval clash fought against Adm. Horatio Nelson’s British fleet. The find was announced on the 225th anniversary of the battle.

Race Against Time: Excavation Underway

The ongoing excavation is a race against time due to a nearby construction project. The site is threatened by Lynetteholm, a large-scale housing development planned for the harbor area. This urgency underscores the importance of documenting the wreck before it is lost forever.

Artifacts Reveal Insights into the Battle

Archaeologists have already recovered a variety of artifacts from the wreck, including cannons, uniforms, insignia, shoes, bottles, and even part of a sailor's jaw. These finds offer a unique and intimate perspective on the lives of those involved in the battle and the conditions they faced.

The Dannebroge and the Battle of Copenhagen

The Dannebroge was Commodore Olfert Fischer's flagship. During the battle, Nelson targeted the 157-foot vessel, and cannon fire caused significant damage, sparking a fire aboard. The Battle of Copenhagen resulted in thousands of casualties and profoundly shaped Denmark’s national identity. The British aimed to force Denmark out of an alliance with other Northern European powers.

Challenges of the Excavation

Dive teams are working in challenging conditions, facing zero visibility and thick sediment at a depth of 50 feet. Diver and maritime archaeologist Marie Jonsson described the conditions, stating, “At times it’s not possible to see anything at all and the divers have to feel their way around instead of looking with their eyes.” The presence of cannonballs further complicates the excavation, stirring up silt from the seabed.

Authenticating the Wreck

Experts have verified the authenticity of the ship's remains by comparing the sizes of recovered wooden parts to old drawings. They are also utilizing dendrochronological dating, analyzing tree rings to determine the age of the wood and the ship’s construction date.

A Deeper Understanding of History

Morten Johansen, the museum’s head of maritime archaeology, emphasized the importance of the find, stating, “The battle is an important aspect of the Danish national feeling and by studying the wreck, we can probably learn more about what it was like to be onboard the ship.” The team hopes the discoveries will provide a more personal connection to the historical event and uncover the stories of those who fought and perished.