ASI and National Museum of Denmark Signed MoU for Underwater Archaeological Investigation of Historic Danish Ship Oresund

Why in News?

The Archaeological Survey of India’s Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) and the National Museum of Denmark have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to undertake a joint underwater archaeological project to locate and document the remains of the historic Danish ship Oresund, which sank off the coast near Karaikal in 1619 CE.

About the Oresund

The Oresund holds a significant place in maritime history as the first Danish ship known to have reached India. Shortly after arriving in Indian waters in 1619 CE, the vessel was wrecked near Karaikal on the Coromandel Coast.

The shipwreck is considered an important archaeological resource for understanding:

• Early maritime interactions between India and Denmark.
• European maritime expansion into the Indian Ocean.
• Seafaring technology and navigation during the early seventeenth century.
• Trade networks operating in the Indian Ocean region.

Objectives of the Project

The joint project aims to:

• Locate and scientifically document the remains of the Oresund.
• Conduct underwater archaeological investigations using modern scientific techniques.
• Generate new evidence on early Indo-Danish maritime contacts.
• Conserve and study underwater cultural heritage in accordance with international archaeological standards.

Significance

This collaboration marks the first international collaborative archaeological project undertaken by the Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) of the Archaeological Survey of India. It is expected to strengthen India’s expertise in underwater archaeology through knowledge exchange, advanced survey techniques and international cooperation.

The project will also enrich understanding of the history of maritime trade and cultural exchanges in the Indian Ocean, highlighting India’s long-standing role in global commerce.

Source: PIB