The Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum

The Stockholm audio-guided tour points out, on the island of Djurgarden, the Vasa Museum, the most visited maritime museum in the country. It houses a unique treasure: an immense 17th-century warship, preserved in exceptional condition.

The wreck of the Vasa

In 1626, King Gustav II Adolph had a colossal ship of one thousand two hundred tonnes and sixty-four cannons built for the Swedish navy. But as soon as it left the port of Stockholm, in 1628, the Vasa, poorly balanced, was laid over by a gust of wind and sank a few hundred metres from the shore. Remaining underwater for more than three centuries, it was raised in 1961 in remarkable condition, thanks to the low-salt waters of the Baltic.

What there is to see

The museum is organised around the ship itself, displayed over several levels, which allow you to admire its hull, sculptures and decks. Preserved at more than ninety percent in its original state, the Vasa is one of the best-preserved old ships in the world. Exhibitions tell of its construction, its sinking and its raising.

Practical information

The Vasa Museum is on the island of Djurgarden, in Stockholm. The visit is ticketed and subject to hours that vary by season; as the site is very busy, it is best to plan ahead. The museum is accessible on foot or by bike, and well served by transport.

Why did the Vasa sink ?

Poorly balanced, the ship was laid over by a gust of wind as soon as it left the port of Stockholm, in 1628, and sank near the shore.

How is the Vasa so well preserved ?

Remaining underwater for more than three centuries, it was raised in 1961 in remarkable condition thanks to the low-salt waters of the Baltic.