Although this wreck sank in 1672 and was discovered in 2019 off the coast of Sussex, it has until now been known as the “Unknown Wreck at Eastbourne”.

However, scientists have now identified the wreck as the Dutch warship Klein Hollandia.

Built in 1656 and owned by the Admiralty of Rotterdam, the ship saw action in every major battle of the Second Anglo-Dutch War from 1665 to 1667.

All last year, experts have been working on the identification of the ship. They used evidence collected at the crash site, as well as archival research and analysis of wood samples.

Experts say the wreck is in remarkable condition and can provide a lot of information about how 17th-century Dutch ships were built and the actions of a warship during its last voyage.

Heritage Minister Lord Parkinson said the recognition “offers a glimpse into the 17th century, giving us the opportunity to learn more about the maritime history of this period and discover treasures that have been at the bottom of the sea for hundreds of years.”

Upon discovery, the wreck was considered so important that it was given the highest level of protection under the Wreck Protection Act of 1973.

Materials found on the seafloor included most of the wooden reefs, cannons, Italian marble tiles, and pieces of Italian pottery.

The tiles were destined for the Netherlands and intended for the construction of luxury homes.

Mark Beatty-Edwards, executive director of the Maritime Archaeological Society, said the ship’s cannons, marble tiles and pottery suggest it was a Dutch ship returning from Italy.

“Now, after four years of research, we can confidently identify the vessel.”

Source: skynews