In a discovery described as extraordinary, maritime archaeologists have uncovered the remains of a Danish warship lost more than two centuries ago during the Battle of Copenhagen.

The wreck was identified as the Dannebroge, a vessel that sank in 1801 after being attacked by forces led by British naval commander Horatio Nelson. The find was made by experts from the Viking Ship Museum during a seabed survey in Copenhagen Harbor.

Lying around 15 meters below the surface in near-zero visibility conditions, the ship’s remains were located as part of preparations for the construction of the Lynetteholm, a controversial artificial peninsula designed to protect the Danish capital from rising sea levels.

According to archaeologists, the dimensions of the wreck match historical drawings of the Dannebroge almost exactly. The surrounding seabed is scattered with cannonballs and other battle debris, with at least two cannons already recovered.

The Dannebroge played a central role in Denmark-Norway’s defense during the battle. After hours of intense fighting against the superior British fleet, the ship caught fire and eventually exploded, marking a devastating moment in the conflict.

Beyond the ship itself, the excavation has revealed deeply human traces of the past. Items such as shoes, fragments of clothing, clay pipes, and uniform insignia have been recovered, offering a glimpse into the lives of the crew.

More poignantly, archaeologists also discovered human remains, including a jawbone and several other bones believed to belong to sailors who perished in the battle. Historical records indicate that dozens of crew members died, while many others were listed as missing.

Despite the Battle of Copenhagen being a well-documented event, this marks one of the first times it has been explored through modern archaeological investigation—adding a powerful new dimension to the historical narrative.

All recovered materials are now being carefully documented and scanned in 3D as researchers continue their work at the site.