Visit the Vasa Museum
in Stockholm

History of the Vasa and its sinking

Built under the order of Gustavus Adolphus, the Vasa was intended to be the most imposing ship in the Swedish fleet. However, upon departure on August 10, 1628, a light breeze was enough to capsize it. The ship sank only 20 minutes after departure, taking with it approximately 30 lives. This tragic event remains one of the most famous shipwrecks in maritime history.

The ship remained at the bottom of the harbor for more than 330 years, preserved by the cold water and the absence of wood-boring organisms. It was not until 1961 that a team of divers successfully salvaged it. This titanic operation, led by Anders Franzén, allowed the recovery of the hull and a large part of the armament. The Vasa thus became an exceptional testimony to 17th-century naval architecture.

After its salvage, the ship required extensive restoration. It spent 27 years in a temporary structure called Wasavarvet, where it was treated with polyethylene glycol to stabilize the wood. This innovative method allowed water to be replaced by a polymer, preventing the decomposition of the wood once out of the water. The result is a nearly intact ship, ready to be exhibited to the public.

What to see at the Vasa Museum?

The heart of the museum is of course the Vasa ship itself, visible on six levels. Visitors can observe the keel, decks, sterncastle, and baroque sculptures. The original wood, blackened by three centuries of immersion, contrasts with the untreated replacement pieces. This visual difference helps understand the extent of conservation work carried out on the ship.

In addition to the Vasa, the museum presents four other floating museum ships: the Sankt Erik, the Finngrundet, the Spica, and the Bernhard Ingelsson. These ships, often overlooked by visitors, offer an interesting historical complement. They illustrate the evolution of the Swedish navy and different periods of the country's maritime history.

The annex exhibitions enrich the visit with models, artifacts, and reconstructions. Panels detail the historical context of Sweden in the 17th century, under the reign of Gustavus Adolphus. Visitors can also discover the tools of the carpenters and the construction techniques used at the time. These educational elements make the visit accessible and captivating for all ages.

Practicalities and conservation of the Vasa

The museum is located at Galärvarvsvägen 14 on the island of Djurgården. To preserve the wood, the indoor temperature is strictly maintained between 18 and 20°C. It is therefore advisable to bring a sweater, even in summer. This conservation measure is essential to guarantee the longevity of the ship and the exhibited artifacts. Air conditioning also maintains a stable humidity level around 50%.

Access to the museum is subject to strict rules regarding luggage. Large bags and wheeled bags are prohibited inside. Only small handbags or backpacks carried on the person are allowed. A cloakroom is available for visitors who do not comply with this instruction. This measure aims to protect the ship and exhibitions from any potential damage.

The museum building, designed by Marianne Dahlbäck and Göran Månsson, is an architectural work in itself. Its copper roof is topped with stylized masts representing the actual height of the fully rigged Vasa. Inaugurated on June 15, 1990, by Prince Bertil of Sweden, the museum has welcomed more than 25 million visitors. It remains a must-see destination for any visit to Stockholm.