Conservation of waterlogged archaeological wood: what we can learn from the Vasa experience?

The Vasa, an impeccably preserved seventeenth-century ship, stands as a pinnacle of maritime heritage, drawing the highest visitor footfall to its museum in Sweden. Following deliberation on optimal preservation strategies, the vessel underwent pioneering treatment with polyethylene glycol (PEG), a process spanning 17 years, succeeded by a protracted phase of gradual desiccation that remained incomplete as of 2011. Continual vigilance and scholarly inquiry characterize ongoing efforts to safeguard the Vasa wreck, reflecting a commitment to its enduring conservation. Over time, approaches to the archaeological excavation, retrieval, and exhibition of shipwrecks have evolved significantly, transitioning from conventional practices prevalent in the mid-twentieth century to contemporary paradigms emphasizing immersive, in-situ showcases and interpretive narratives that contextualize cultural artifacts within their marine ecosystems. This transformative journey has culminated in the establishment of shipwreck parks, dive corridors, and Marine Protected Areas, emblematic of a holistic conservation ethos that harmonizes the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. The collective wisdom gleaned from these endeavors serves as a beacon guiding future conservation endeavors, informing strategies tailored to both the Vasa and newly discovered wrecks.