World of the Newport Medieval Ship: Trade, Politics and Shipping in the Mid-Fifteenth Century

The Newport Medieval Ship is a significant late-medieval merchant vessel recovered in 2002, with plans to make it the centrepiece for a permanent exhibition in Newport. This volume interprets the vessel and its world, written by leading maritime archaeologists and historians.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 320 pages
\n Publication date: 14 May 2018
\n Publisher: University of Wales Press
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The Newport Medieval Ship stands as the most significant late-medieval merchant vessel to have been recovered to date. Constructed around 1450 in northern Spain, it tragically met its end at Newport, twenty years after its construction, during repairs. Since its discovery in 2002, extensive investigations have revolutionized our understanding of fifteenth-century ship technology. Currently, plans are underway to establish the ship as the focal point of a permanent exhibition in Newport, aimed at providing visitors, students, and researchers with a comprehensive understanding of the vessel and the world it emerged from.

This comprehensive volume comprises eleven chapters, authored by renowned maritime archaeologists and historians. Through their collective insights, these chapters explore the profound significance of the Newport Medieval Ship and its place within the commercial, political, and social contexts of its time.

The ship's construction in Spain around 1450 marks a significant milestone in maritime history. Its design and engineering features, such as the use of oak timbers and the incorporation of advanced sailing techniques, demonstrate the advanced state of shipbuilding during this period. The ship's subsequent journey to England, where it was discovered in 2002, adds an intriguing layer to its history, as it likely traveled through various trade routes and encountered different cultures and environments.

The extensive investigations conducted since the ship's discovery have shed light on various aspects of its construction, navigation, and cargo. Detailed analysis of its materials, such as the wood, iron, and ceramics used, has provided valuable insights into the craftsmanship and materials employed in medieval shipbuilding. Moreover, the study of its navigational records and the analysis of its wreckage have helped reconstruct its route and the circumstances surrounding its sinking.

The significance of the Newport Medieval Ship extends beyond its historical and technological importance. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in fifteenth-century maritime history, trade, and culture. The ship's unique features and characteristics provide a window into the social and economic dynamics of the period, as well as the technological advancements and innovations that shaped the world at that time.

The plans to establish the Newport Medieval Ship as a permanent exhibition in Newport are a testament to the importance of preserving and showcasing historical artifacts. Such exhibitions not only educate the public but also contribute to the preservation of our cultural heritage and the understanding of our past. By making the ship accessible to a wide audience, we can inspire curiosity, promote research, and foster a deeper appreciation for the rich history and diversity of our world.

In conclusion, the Newport Medieval Ship is a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and skill of medieval shipbuilders. Its discovery and subsequent investigations have transformed our understanding of fifteenth-century ship technology and shed light on the complex social, economic, and political landscapes of the period. The ship's significance extends beyond its historical value, as it serves as a valuable resource for scholars and researchers and contributes to the preservation of our cultural heritage. As we continue to explore and uncover the mysteries of our past, the Newport Medieval Ship will remain a shining example of the rich tapestry of human achievement.

\n Weight: 460g\n
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 19 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781786832634\n \n