The royal ship Kronan – a treasure of the great power era in Kalmarsund
On June 1, 1676, the Swedish warship Kronan exploded in a violent battle south of Öland – one of the largest shipping disasters in Swedish history. The ship was one of the world's largest when it was launched, built to show Sweden's power at sea. With its 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 manoeuvre. The gunpowder store exploded, and in just a few moments, Kronan disappeared into the depths – along with almost the entire crew. The incident marked the beginning of the end for Sweden's dominance at sea.
The wreck was first found 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 during the 1600s.
Today, Kronan is one of the world's most well-preserved naval wrecks from the time of the great power – a maritime cultural heritage of great importance to both research and the public. At Kalmar County Museum, you can see the objects and follow the ongoing work of mapping and understanding the fate of Kronan.
The wreck was first found 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 during the 1600s.
Today, Kronan is one of the world's most well-preserved naval wrecks from the time of the great power – a maritime cultural heritage of great importance to both research and the public. At Kalmar County Museum, you can see the objects and follow the ongoing work of mapping and understanding the fate of Kronan.