Archaeologists in Barcelona have uncovered the wreckage of a large medieval ship during excavations at the site of a former fish market. The discovery, made as part of preparations for a new biomedical and biodiversity centre, could reveal valuable insights into ancient boatbuilding techniques. The wreck, believed to date back to the 15th or 16th century, adds to previous finds at the site, including a Spanish Civil War air-raid shelter and 18th-century remains. Experts are now working to carefully preserve and study the wreck, which offers a rare glimpse into Barcelona’s maritime history.
First Signs of the Shipwreck
Earlier this month, a team of archaeologists in Barcelona uncovered a significant fragment of the ship’s stern, which is thought to have sunk around the 15th or 16th century when the area was still submerged. The exposed portion of the wreck is 10 meters long and three meters wide, featuring more than 30 curved wooden ribs held together by wooden and iron nails. Lead archaeologist Santi Palacios stated that they had expected to find ship remains in this location due to the site’s proximity to the historic port.
Uncovering the “Ciutadella I”
Named after the nearby park, the wreck has been dubbed “Ciutadella I.” Due to the fragility of the wooden structure, researchers have been careful to keep the remains moist to prevent further deterioration. Restorer Delia Eguiluz emphasized the importance of maintaining the wood’s moisture levels, explaining that the wreck will be carefully dismantled piece by piece for further study. In the coming weeks, the fragments will be transported to a conservation facility where they will undergo a preservation process using water-soluble wax.
A Deeper Dive into Ancient Shipbuilding
Experts believe that the materials and construction techniques used in the wreck could provide valuable insights into medieval Mediterranean shipbuilding practices. The use of iron nails and the design of the wooden ribs suggest that this vessel was part of the maritime trade that was integral to Barcelona’s economy during the late medieval period. This discovery is particularly important as it could shed light on how ships were built to withstand the challenges of long-distance travel and trade in the Mediterranean.
Comparing Ciutadella I with Previous Shipwreck
The Ciutadella I is not the first medieval shipwreck to be discovered in Barcelona. In 2006, archaeologists uncovered the remains of another 15th-century ship, known as Barceloneta I, near a railway station. Unlike Ciutadella I, which is believed to have been built in the Mediterranean, Barceloneta I originated from Cantabria, a region in northern Spain. The two ships’ differing origins will offer researchers an opportunity to compare shipbuilding techniques and materials used in different parts of Spain during the medieval period.
Tracking the Origins of the Ciutadella I
One of the key goals of the current excavation is to determine the exact origin of the Ciutadella I. By analyzing the wood, resin, and construction methods used in the wreck, researchers hope to pinpoint where the ship was built. This detailed study will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of medieval shipbuilding and naval practices in the Mediterranean. Palacios noted that the discovery is significant not only for its historical value but also for the insights it offers into the city’s rich maritime heritage.
A Broader Understanding of Barcelona’s Maritime Past
With two medieval shipwrecks now discovered in the region, researchers hope that further analysis will deepen our understanding of Barcelona’s maritime history. The study of these vessels will help historians document the city’s role as a key player in Mediterranean trade and maritime culture during the late Middle Ages. These discoveries provide a rare opportunity to explore the technological advancements and craftsmanship that shaped the Mediterranean’s seafaring tradition.
As the excavation and conservation of Ciutadella I continue, archaeologists remain optimistic that more will be learned about the ship’s construction and its role in the bustling maritime trade routes of the medieval period. This discovery is a reminder of the enduring legacy of shipbuilding in Barcelona and its critical role in shaping the city’s history and culture.
The Ciutadella I shipwreck is a remarkable find that offers valuable insight into medieval Mediterranean shipbuilding. As conservation efforts progress, researchers are hopeful that the wreck’s analysis will unlock new knowledge about ancient boat construction and its connection to Barcelona’s rich maritime history.
