The Sea War of the 14th Century. Revealed the oldest shipwreck in Europe: what is it special
In focus, technology appeared its Telegram channel. Subscribe not to miss the latest and most intrusive news from the world of science! The study offers a new look at the initial stages of artillery development, both on land and at sea. In addition, it is a testament to the tumultuous era, which was experienced by sailors and coastal communities of that time. A diver-lover at a depth of 20 meters near Marstrand came into the found relic, a miniature gun made of copper alloy with muzzle charging.
It is important that the research group has come to the conclusion: the gun was specially designed for ship use rather than serving as a cargo, due to the detection of residual charges in its powder chamber. Such excellent preservation has allowed to use a radiocarbon dating method to establish the age of the artifact. Marine archaeologist Staffan von Arbin says: "Thanks to the preserved charge, it became possible to use the radiocarbon method to establish the age of the find. Europe.
" During careful study of the finding, researchers used the most modern 3D scan technology, as well as conducted a chemical analysis of the composition of the copper alloy of the gun. This analysis showed that the alloy consisted of approximately 14 weight percent of lead and only with minor traces of tin. Such a composition, according to researchers, makes the gun unpay for long -term and intensive use.
It is obvious that the person responsible for casting a gun has no complete understanding of the various properties inherent in copper alloys. This observation suggests that at that time the art of cannon Lithuania remained a sphere that was mostly regulated by the method of attempts and errors. In addition, chemical analysis gives an idea of the origin of the materials used in the design of the gun.
It is suggested that copper ore came from the territory of modern Slovakia, while the lead component probably came from England or the border region, which is divided between Poland and the Czech Republic. In the 14th century, Marstrand was a significant center of commercial navigation, which was facilitated by its exclusive port infrastructure, which connected Western Europe and the Baltic Sea.
However, this maritime corridor did not stay away from conflict, as the seas were often involved in wars and clashes, which had a negative impact on coastal communities. The impending threat of piracy increased further the risks that sailors face. Marstrand's gun research reveals the integration of new firearms in this era, which gave significant tactical advantages during marine clashes.
It is noteworthy that not only warships could boast of these weapons, but also the merchant vessels of the late Middle Ages were also increasingly used by guns to protect against pirates and other opponents. This discovery contributes to a deeper understanding of the evolution of marine military equipment. The design of the find corresponds to guns, which are usually associated with 15-16 centuries. However, it testifies to the existence of this model in the 14th century.
In addition, the finding of stored charge residues in the gun's powder chamber sheds light on earlier use of cartridges, the forms of textile packaging for powder charges, which casts doubt on previous chronology. Staffan von Arbin, reflecting on future prospects, says: "Now, of course, we also want to try to find and study the ship that the gun belonged. Although he is likely to be strongly destroyed and broken, there must inventory of place and its environs.