Archaeologists in Barcelona have uncovered a large medieval ship beneath an old fish market site. The vessel, which likely sank around 500 or 600 years ago, was found during excavation work for a new biomedical and biodiversity center. This discovery adds to previous finds, including a Spanish Civil War air-raid shelter and traces of the city’s 18th-century past.
A Glimpse into Barcelona’s Maritime Past
The ship’s remains were exposed earlier this month, with the stern measuring 10 meters long and 3 meters wide. Experts believe a storm may have sunk the ship in the 15th or 16th centuries when the area was still underwater. The ship is supported by over 30 curved wooden ribs and held together by wooden and iron nails, showing typical Mediterranean and European medieval shipbuilding methods.
Santi Palacios, the lead archaeologist, noted that while the team expected to find maritime remains near the port and old quay, the discovery of a massive vessel was a rare event. “After two years of work, we uncovered a ship that offers valuable insights into Barcelona’s maritime history,” Palacios said.
Preserving Fragile Remains
The ship’s wood is incredibly fragile after centuries underwater. Researchers have kept it moist, covering it with sand to prevent drying out. Restorer Delia Eguiluz explained that keeping the wood damp is crucial for preserving its condition. When the time comes to move the ship, the team will dismantle it piece by piece to ensure its protection.
Currently, the team is mapping the wreck, labeling each part, and collecting samples for analysis. After excavation, the pieces will be moved to a specialized facility. There, experts will treat the wood with a water-soluble wax to strengthen it.
Insights into Medieval Shipbuilding and Barcelona’s History
Researchers hope to learn more about medieval shipbuilding from the timbers and nails of the Ciutadella I. This discovery adds to the knowledge about Barcelona’s maritime past and complements the previous find of a 15th-century shipwreck, the Barceloneta I, discovered 17 years ago near a railway station in the city.
Unlike the Ciutadella I, believed to be of Mediterranean origin, the Barceloneta I was a Cantabrian ship. By studying the Ciutadella I’s materials, experts aim to determine where it was built and uncover more about the shipbuilding techniques of that era.
Barcelona’s Rich Maritime History Comes to Light
The Ciutadella I discovery deepens our understanding of Barcelona’s naval history. With two well-documented medieval shipwrecks now available for study, researchers can explore the city’s shipbuilding methods from centuries ago.
The Ciutadella I and the Barceloneta I offer crucial data for understanding medieval maritime culture. Experts are optimistic that ongoing research will reveal more about the lives of those who built and sailed these vessels, providing a rare glimpse into the past.
The discovery of the Ciutadella I highlights Barcelona’s rich maritime heritage. With careful preservation, this find will offer insights into medieval shipbuilding techniques, enriching the city’s historical narrative. Preservation efforts, led by experts like Delia Eguiluz, ensure that this important discovery will be safeguarded for future generations.