Finnish Heritage Agency investigates mysterious shipwreck off Suomenlinna coast

The Finnish Heritage Agency is investigating a mysterious shipwreck located off the coast of Suomenlinna, where multiple wrecks have been discovered. One of these wrecks, named Hilma, has been under examination by a team of maritime archaeologists for three years. Hilma is approximately 33 meters long and 8 meters wide, identified as a wooden ship. However, its original name and origin remain unknown.

Officially designated as the wreck of West Mustasaari 2, it lies east of West Mustasaari in Suomenlinna and is easily accessible from land. Preliminary studies suggest that the wreck may have been deliberately sunk around 1780, with the wood sourced from the northeastern coast of the Baltic Sea.

Preliminary interpretations of the wreck’s sinking indicate intentional submersion, evidenced by large stones found inside its hull. “Once we determine the chronology and structure of the wreck, we will explore archival sources to identify what the original vessel was and consider why it has remained in the shallow waters,” says maritime archaeologist Minna Koivikko.

The wreck exemplifies the typical wooden shipwreck found in the Suomenlinna area, primarily preserving only the bottom structure, commonly referred to as a skeletal wreck, with loose structural parts on top. Due to its location, the wreck has constantly been influenced by human activity.

The investigation is part of a six-year research initiative called “Forgotten Fleet” led by Stockholm University, with the Finnish Heritage Agency participating for the next three years. Additionally, a photogrammetry expert is on the research team, creating a 3D model of Hilma that can be explored using virtual reality glasses.