Medieval Shipwreck Discovered in Lake Constance

Underwater archaeologists in Germany discovered wooden remains of a shipwreck off Lindau in Lake Constance, a large inland body of water bordering Austria and Switzerland. A recreational diver initially alerted the Bavarian Society for Underwater Archaeology (BGfU) to the possible wreck. Initial investigation revealed several frames and hull fragments, confirming it was a ship rather than loose timber.

Analysis of a wood sample dated the wreck to between 1420 and 1450 AD, surprising researchers who anticipated a more recent origin. Lake Constance already held four known wrecks from the late Middle Ages, making this discovery valuable for understanding medieval shipbuilding.

Currently, a full salvage operation is considered too expensive. Instead, archaeologists are discussing a small-scale excavation to determine the ship’s construction and size. The BGfU, comprised of around 100 volunteer members, will continue to investigate the site.