Nowhere in the world is there a ship like Vasa. Every year, more than a million people come to see the shipwreck which has become such a sensation. Vasa brings the 17th century to life for us. It is important for future generations to be able to experience this magnificent vessel and all the objects found with it.

To preserve objects from decay is not easy. Preservation attempts to counteract the forces of nature that break down all material over time. Some materials are difficult to preserve, others easier. In Vasa’s case, we are dealing with wood that has been under water for over 300 years. Much can happen to timber over such a long time; biological activity breaks down the wood, chemicals penetrate into it and the cell structure is destroyed. This is why waterlogged wood must be conserved. If it is allowed to dry out after salvage, the wood would split and collapse. Without conservation, Vasa could never have survived in the condition it is in today.

Salvaging a wreck also has its complications. When wood comes into contact with oxygen in the air, new chemical process are initiated. For almost a decade, a comprehensive research program has been taking place to help us prolong the Vasa’s life and to tackle the problems that have arisen.

Conservation is not the only aspect of Vasa’s preservation. A ship is a complicated structure made of thousands of connected parts. It is a construction that must be supported and held together properly. This is also a part of preservation. To maintain control over Vasa’s condition, different types of measurements are regularly taken. Another important aspect in preservation work is the climate in the ship hall. It is essential that temperature and humidity are maintained at even levels.

Vasa will not survive for ever, but the Vasa Musuem has a duty to ensure that the ship is preserved in as good a condition as possible for as long as possible.