Historic Champagne Cargo Found in Swedish Shipwreck Protected by Law

In a remarkable underwater discovery, Polish scuba divers have located a treasure trove of 19th-century Champagne and mineral water bottles in a shipwreck off the coast of southern Sweden. The find, made on July 11, 2024, has sparked interest among experts and authorities alike, highlighting the importance of preserving maritime heritage.

The wreck, situated approximately 37 kilometers south of Oeland in the Baltic Sea, lies at a depth of 58 meters. While its location has been known since 2016, the valuable cargo remained hidden until now. The discovery has shed light on the rich maritime history of the region, with Sweden's nautical past dating back to the Viking Age.

Swedish officials have taken swift action to protect this underwater time capsule. Magnus Johansson, a county representative, stated, "The champagne bottles offer a well-preserved glimpse into shipping and onboard life from the late 19th century." Consequently, authorities have classified the wreck as an "ancient relic," despite it not meeting the pre-1850 criteria for automatic protection.

The Baltic Sea, one of the world's largest brackish inland seas, is known for its exceptional preservation conditions. With an estimated 20,000 shipwrecks, it serves as a vast underwater museum. The cold, dark waters of the Baltic have likely contributed to the remarkable state of the discovered bottles.

Daniel Tedenlind, an official from neighboring Kalmar county, emphasized the cultural and historical significance of the find. The cargo's potential royal connections add an intriguing layer to its story, with speculation that it may have been destined for Stockholm or St. Petersburg.

Authorities have issued a clear warning against unauthorized retrieval or tampering with the wreck's contents. This protective stance aligns with Sweden's strict laws safeguarding underwater cultural heritage, ensuring that this snapshot of history remains intact for future study and appreciation.

The discovery has piqued the interest of wine and water experts eager to analyze the bottles' contents. However, any such examination will require proper authorization, reflecting the delicate balance between scientific curiosity and historical preservation.

This find joins the ranks of other notable underwater discoveries, including the world's oldest known intact shipwreck, which dates back over 2,400 years. It also highlights the relatively recent development of underwater archaeology as a scientific discipline, which only emerged in the 1960s.

As the story of this champagne-laden shipwreck unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the vast historical treasures that lie beneath the waves, waiting to be discovered and protected for generations to come.