Anders Franzén

Anders Franzén (1918–1993) was a Swedish marine archaeologist, historian, and author. He is best known for discovering the 17th-century warship Vasa in the waters off Stockholm, Sweden.

Early life and education

Franzén was born on October 14, 1918, in Ystad, Sweden. He developed an interest in shipbuilding and naval history at a young age. He studied at the University of Stockholm, where he earned a degree in history and archaeology.

Career

Franzén worked as a naval historian and archivist for the Swedish Navy. His research focused on the history of Swedish naval warfare and shipbuilding techniques. He is credited with developing new methods for locating and salvaging sunken ships.

In 1956, Franzén discovered the wreck of the Vasa, a Swedish warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. The ship was remarkably well-preserved, and its recovery and restoration have provided valuable insights into 17th-century shipbuilding and naval warfare.

Franzén continued to work on the Vasa project until his retirement in 1983. He also wrote several books and articles about the ship and its history.

Legacy

Franzén's work has had a significant impact on the field of marine archaeology. His methods for locating and salvaging sunken ships are still used today. The Vasa is now housed in the Vasa Museum in Stockholm, where it attracts visitors from around the world.

Franzén passed away on August 9, 1993. His contributions to marine archaeology and naval history continue to be recognized and celebrated.

See also

• Marine archaeology in the Baltic Sea
• History of the Swedish Navy
• Shipwrecks of the Baltic Sea