Final excavation of medieval ship abandoned

Archaeologists around the country are united in outrage with local campaigners over the decision to abandon any attempt to rescue the stern of a unique medieval [ship] discovered by chance last summer on the banks of the river Usk, during the construction of an arts centre in the heart of Newport, south Wales. . .

The main timbers of the Newport Ship have been recovered, but the city council says it is too dangerous to excavate the stern, which experts on ancient ships insist is vital for understanding its construction. The stern could have been plain, or an elaborate castle shape.

The ship, built around 1465, is a unique discovery in Britain, and one of only a handful of well preserved vessels from the period found anywhere in Europe.

Posted by David on April 21, 2003 2:22 PM