For 333 years, Vasa lay in the dirty waters of Stockholm harbour before she was raised in 1961 and began her career as a museum object. During the years underwater, Vasa was attacked by bacteria and rust from corroded iron objects spread throughout the hull. A slow degradation took place in Vasa - a degradation that continues today, in which many factors play roles.
We know that Vasa will not last forever, but researchers and conservators can ensure that the degradation process proceeds as slowly as possible. Because such a large wooden object as Vasa has never been conserved or preserved before, the Vasa Museum together with other institutions is spearheading groundbreaking research which is being followed with great interest around the world.
Here, you can peek behind the scenes and follow the crusade to save Vasa. (Text about the preservation will come soon.)