19th-Century Champagne Found On Swedish Shipwreck Declared Off-Limits

Authorities in Sweden have declared that no one is allowed to retrieve or examine the 100 bottles of 19th-century Champagne and mineral water discovered in a shipwreck off the coast of southern Sweden without an authorized permit.

Polish scuba divers discovered the wreck on July 11, lying approximately 58 meters (190 feet) off the shore of Blekinge.

Despite having been registered with Sweden’s National Antiquities Office since 2016, the valuable cargo was just recently discovered by divers exploring areas of interest 37 kilometers (20 nautical miles) south of Oeland Island in the Baltic Sea.

Wine and water experts have shown an interest in conducting laboratory testing on the contents of the bottles.

However, Swedish officials have intervened, designating the wreckage as “an ancient relic” that requires strict protection to preserve its historical significance.

Shipwreck — Image Credits: Tomasz Stachura/Facebook

Magnus Johansson, a county official, emphasized the need to preserve the ship’s integrity, stating, “You must not damage the ancient remains, which also includes taking items from the wreck, e.g., champagne bottles, without permission from the county.

Although the wreck dates from the latter half of the 19th century and was not built before 1850, it is not automatically classified as an ancient relic, but local authorities have acknowledged its cultural and historical significance.

Daniel Tedenlind, a county official in Kalmar, recognized the wreck’s high status, which is currently being considered for official protection.

Diver Tomasz Stachura believes that the cargo may have been intended for the royal court in Stockholm or the Russian tsar’s residence in St. Petersburg when the ship sank.

The well-preserved discovery provides a unique glimpse into late-nineteenth-century maritime life and shipping activities.

Reference: AP

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.