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Structure Found in Constance Contains at Least 19 Original Planks, Covers Over 25 Square Meters, and Enables the Study of Repairs, Caulking, and Medieval Naval Engineering Techniques Outside of an Aquatic Environment in a Dry Cellar
A medieval ship had part of its hull repurposed as a ceiling in a cellar in Constance, located in southern Germany. The structure, identified in a building dating back to 1244 on Konradigasse, consists of at least 19 original planks and covers an area of over 25 square meters. The discovery was announced on August 12, 2026.
Medieval Ship Remained Preserved in a Structure
The discovery took place during a feasibility study conducted by the State Office for Monument Preservation in Stuttgart. The pieces form an almost continuous section of the hull of the ancient vessel.
The shape of the structures, the rows of nails, wooden dowels, and the remnants of caulking found in the crevices allowed for the identification of the naval origin of the planks.
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Several pieces remain fitted in the same sequence as they were on the ship. This indicates that medieval builders repurposed an entire section of the hull rather than completely dismantling the vessel to use isolated planks.
This usage demonstrates how wood that had already been employed in a ship could serve another purpose. Repurposing saved labor and allowed useful material to be incorporated into a construction project.
ROE (Return on Equity). Esther Leuffen
Repairs Reveal Details of Naval Engineering
Initial surveys suggest that the medieval ship was a flat-bottomed cargo vessel powered by sails. Its typology is similar to that of a 14th-century wreck found near Kippenhorn, in Immenstaad.
However, the pieces from Konradigasse also show signs of long-term use. At least four repairs have been identified in damaged areas of the hull.
In these spots, old parts were replaced with custom-made pieces. Among the interventions is a repair made with a swallowtail-shaped joint.
These features allow researchers to observe techniques used in both the construction and maintenance of vessels utilized in the Lake Constance region.
Dry basement facilitates study of medieval ship
The location of the remains provides an unusual condition for the “Shipwrecks and Deep Sea” project. Many medieval shipwrecks in the area remain submerged, while the wood from Konradigasse can be examined directly in a dry environment.
In August 2026, researchers conducted new mapping of the structure. Hundreds of digital photographs were used to prepare a three-dimensional model using a technique known as structure from motion.
The team also collected samples for dendrochronological analysis. This method uses tree growth rings to determine when the wood was cut and helps to better pinpoint the age of the vessel.
The results are still preliminary. The study of the planks, repairs, and caulking is expected to provide new insights into naval engineering techniques and wood reuse in the region.
This article was prepared based on information from the State Office for Monument Preservation in Stuttgart and Archaeology News, with data, numbers, and statements preserved as per the consulted material.
