During the past holidays, during a storm, an impressive-sized shipwreck washed up on the beach of Mersrag. Although its value still needs to be determined by experts, there is a possibility that it could be buried or sunk.
Both local residents and interested people from further afield rush to see the impressive shipwreck. The approximately ten-meter-long, hitherto drowning wonder at the bottom of the sea visually looks like an asaka, because it is very well preserved and holds together. Only two of its ribs and a couple of planks can be found a few meters away.
Inese Indrikson, head of the Roja Sea Fisheries Museum, states that the museum is currently inclined to think that the washed-up wreck could be from a sailing boat. “This is a preserved shipwreck of a rather impressive size, because in reality smaller fragments are washed up on the coast very often. At the moment, the cultural heritage administration has been attached to the shipwreck, and we must definitely wait for a specialist to look at it and give a more specific opinion,” says I. Indriksone, adding that for the time being there is no possibility to preserve the shipwreck in the Roja museum, because in previous cases it was concluded that these washed-up wrecks the fragments have been constantly in a humid, marine microclimate, which forms the set of conditions for the fragments to be preserved for such a long time. In order to preserve them in another environment, it would be necessary to provide equivalent conditions, because the influence of the sun damages such fragments very much.
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Kaspars Markus Moll, a specialist in the Department of Archeology and History of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, concludes that the wreck is an asset. “The find is definitely valuable. A closer examination would be needed to say anything more. Taking into account that forged metal nails were used in the construction of the ship and also the bars are typical of the shipbuilding tradition of the 18th and 19th centuries. There are notches on the outside of the barges, which is characteristic of the clinker building or overpass construction technique, which was used in the 18th century in the Baltic Sea and also in other places in the Northern European region,” says the specialist, emphasizing that thousands of wrecks lie at the bottom of the Baltic Sea.
Please do not damage the washed find
The Cultural Heritage Administration emphasizes that the time of researching the washed-out wreck will not be short, which means that it is advisable to observe the demarcation tapes installed by the municipality during walks and inspections along it. “Moving the wreck will be difficult, specialists will be needed for preservation, moving, processing and so on. Of course, it could be used, let’s say, as an environmental element in the village of Mērsraga”, admits Juris Kronbergs, the head of the Laucienes Association administration. However, its further fate after the survey will mainly be decided by the National Cultural Heritage Board.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Specialist Kaspars Markus Moll on the Recent Shipwreck Discovery in Mersrag
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone, to our special coverage. Today, we’re diving into an incredible discovery along the Mersrag coast — an impressive shipwreck that has surprised locals and attracted attention from far and wide. Joining me is Kaspars Markus Moll, an esteemed specialist from the Department of Archaeology. Welcome, Kaspars!
Kaspars Markus Moll: Thank you! It’s great to be here and discuss this fascinating find.
Editor: Let’s get right into it. During the past holidays, a shipwreck washed up on Mersrag beach. What can you tell us about the significance of this discovery?
Kaspars: Well, this shipwreck is quite remarkable, not just because of its size — approximately ten meters in length — but also due to its preservation state. Many times, we only see fragments of wrecks, but this one is largely intact, which makes it a valuable archaeological find.
Editor: That’s intriguing! Inese Indrikson from the Roja Sea Fisheries Museum suggests it could be from a sailing boat. What indicators lead to that conclusion?
Kaspars: The design and structural integrity of the ship can hint at its origin. The fact that it is described as looking much like an “asaka” supports the hypothesis of it being a sailing vessel. The materials and construction methods used can reveal more once a thorough examination is conducted.
Editor: With such a well-preserved wreck, what next steps are essential for experts like yourself to determine its age and history?
Kaspars: First and foremost, we need to conduct a detailed assessment, including archaeological documentation and potentially underwater excavations if it’s still partially submerged. Working with specialists from the cultural heritage administration will be paramount to ensure we preserve the wreck appropriately. Dating methods, such as carbon dating of any organic materials, will help establish its age.
Editor: Preservation is a critical aspect. Inese mentioned that previous wrecks couldn’t be preserved effectively due to environmental conditions. What challenges do you foresee with this shipwreck?
Kaspars: Indeed, the marine microclimate where these wrecks have existed prolonged their preservation. If we attempt to remove the wreck or fragments for display, we must replicate those conditions. Sunlight, air pollution, and humidity variations can cause rapid degradation. It’s a balancing act that requires careful planning and resources to manage properly.
Editor: It sounds like a challenging yet exciting endeavor. What role do community members and local residents play in this process?
Kaspars: Community engagement is crucial. The enthusiasm of local residents can help foster a sense of stewardship around cultural heritage. They can assist in documenting the site, volunteering during excavations, and spreading awareness about the wreck’s importance. Engaging the public not only aids in preservation efforts but also enriches community ties and education.
Editor: As this wreck draws interest from far beyond Mersrag, what impact could it have on local tourism and education?
Kaspars: A well-managed shipwreck site can become a significant draw for educational tours and archaeological interests, boosting local tourism. Educational programs can leverage this discovery to teach people about maritime history, preservation techniques, and marine ecosystems, thereby enriching the community and inspiring future generations.
Editor: It certainly sounds like an incredible opportunity for Mersrag and its residents. Before we wrap up, is there anything else our readers should keep an eye on as this story develops?
Kaspars: Absolutely! I encourage everyone to stay tuned for updates on the archaeological assessment and any upcoming public events or exhibitions related to the shipwreck. There might also be volunteer opportunities for those interested in the process!
Editor: Thank you, Kaspars, for your insights and enthusiasm for this remarkable discovery. We’re looking forward to seeing where this journey takes us.
Kaspars: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope this shipwreck leads to new knowledge and appreciation of our maritime heritage!
Editor: That concludes our interview today. Stay tuned for more developments on this fascinating shipwreck at Mersrag!
