The royal ship Kronan – a treasure from the great power era in Kalmar Sound
On June 1, 1676, the Swedish warship Kronan exploded in a violent battle south of Öland – one of the largest naval disasters in Swedish history. The ship was one of the largest in the world when it was launched, built to demonstrate Sweden’s power at sea. With over 100 cannons and up to 900 men on board, Kronan was a floating fortress tower.
During the naval battle against the Danish-Dutch fleet, the ship capsized in a difficult maneuver. The gunpowder store exploded, and in just a few moments the Kronan disappeared into the depths – along with almost the entire crew. The event marked the beginning of the end for Sweden's dominance at sea.
The wreck was first discovered in 1980 off Hulterstad on the east coast of Öland, at a depth of 26 meters. Since then, thousands of objects have been salvaged: bronze cannons, gold coins, musical instruments – even personal belongings from the crew. These finds provide a unique insight into life, technology and everyday life in the 1600th century.
Today, the Kronan is one of the world's best-preserved warships from the Great Power era – a maritime cultural heritage with great significance for both research and the general public. At Kalmar County Museum you can see the objects and follow the ongoing work to map and understand the fate of the Kronan.
The wreck was first discovered in 1980 off Hulterstad on the east coast of Öland, at a depth of 26 meters. Since then, thousands of objects have been salvaged: bronze cannons, gold coins, musical instruments – even personal belongings from the crew. These finds provide a unique insight into life, technology and everyday life in the 1600th century.
Today, the Kronan is one of the world's best-preserved warships from the Great Power era – a maritime cultural heritage with great significance for both research and the general public. At Kalmar County Museum you can see the objects and follow the ongoing work to map and understand the fate of the Kronan.