Summary

The Vasa was built for war but also to impress the enemy and display power. However, she sank on her maiden voyage, taking about thirty people with her to the depths. Many were rescued from the water by small boats that were in Stockholm’s ström to witness the proud vessel. Today, 400 years later, researchers study this unique time capsule from the early 17th century. How powerful were Vasa’s 64 cannons? Who do the countless, colorful sculptures on the ship actually depict? And the big question: what was the reason the ship sank?