Newport Medieval Ship Project

In 2002 extensive remains of a mid 15^th century ship were discovered on the banks of the River Usk, in Newport, South Wales. It is the most complete surviving example of a vessel from that century. At around 35 metres, it was a large ship for its time. It almost certainly carried trade goods between the Iberian Peninsula and Britain.

Long abandoned on the river bank the ship could not be lifted intact, so it was removed timber by timber. Once funding was available, a programme of cleaning and recording each of the 1700 main timbers took place, employing marine archaeologists from nine countries.  That process was largely completed by 2008, and a careful programme of conservation continues.

It is hoped that this mighty vessel can be recontructed and displayed within a museum hall in Newport.  The Friends of Newport Ship is a charity (Registered Charity No. 1105449) is assisting Newport City Council with this fabulous project.