HM King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden becomes patron of the Support Vasa project at the Vasa Museum in Stockholm

The project is one of the most extensive in the history of the Vasa Museum and aims to safeguard the future of the warship Vasa for generations to come. In the years leading up to 2028, which marks 400 years since Vasa sank on its maiden voyage in Stockholm, advanced work will be carried out to replace the support structure that currently helps stabilise the ship. The work to put this new support structure in place is the biggest challenge that the Vasa Museum has undertaken since the salvaging and conservation of the ship. 

“We consider it a great honour and joy that HM The King has agreed to serve as patron of Support Vasa. The King’s support means very much to the Vasa Museum and to everyone working to preserve the ship, which is an art treasure and a unique piece of cultural heritage,” says Jenny Lind, Director of the Vasa Museum.

As royal patron, HM The King will follow the project’s progress and participate in selected events during the course of the work. 

“The Support Vasa project is a historic initiative that combines research, technology and craftsmanship to preserve the ship for the future. The fact that HM The King has chosen to serve as patron gives the project special weight and national significance,” concludes Jenny Lind.

THE SUPPORT VASA PROJECT
The support structure that has been holding the warship Vasa since the 1960s needs to be replaced, as it is damaging the ship and causing deformations in the hull. This is due to the weakening of the ship’s wood. The entire support structure will be replaced over the course of several years. The construction started in April 2024.

The 17 pairs of external cradle elements currently in place will be replaced with 27 ultra-modern cradles with a joint under the keel. This will result in the ship being supported at a greater number of points compared to today. Once everything is complete, the external support will be supplemented with an internal support, similar to a skeleton. The internal support will help bear the loads from the decks and beams to slow down the movements in the hull.

For more information, please contact:
Tora Larsdotter Stefansson, Communications Officer 
E-mail: tora.larsdotterstefansson@statensmuseermtf.se 
Tel: +46 8 519 549 08