Discovery of 31 Shipwrecks in Lake Constance: Unveiling History and Mystery

An important archaeological find was announced regarding Lake Constance in Germany, where experts recently identified over 30 submerged wrecks. Among these, one is speculated to be a World War II steamer, obliterated during an airstrike.

Underwater Expedition: Revealing Lake Constance's Secrets

In 2022, a research initiative termed "Wrecks and Deep Sea" began its journey to explore the depths of Lake Constance. This effort, led by the State Office for Monument Preservation, involved deploying divers and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to uncover a diversity of shipwrecks—from antiquated paddle steamers to an unblemished cargo sailing vessel.

The study of the lake, which plunges up to 800 feet deep, revealed over 250 potential points of interest. Among these, 31 were confirmed as shipwrecks, featuring artifacts and vessels of both historical and contemporary significance.

Noteworthy Finds: From Paddle Steamers to Cargo Ships

Utilizing ROVs, significant discoveries were made, including two substantial metal ship hulls. Believed to be the remnants of paddle steamers SD Baden and SD Friedrichshafen II, these vessels were distinguished by their structural features and positions within the lake. Notably, Friedrichshafen II fell victim to a wartime aerial assault, whereas the SD Baden was retired in 1930 and later submerged. Both could accommodate 600 passengers.

The lakebed hosts intriguing visuals such as the handwheel of Friedrichshafen, together with other ship fragments, slowly merging with aquatic life over time.

A remarkable discovery was made of a near-intact cargo sailing ship, preserved at great depths. The ship’s exceptional state, highlighted by intact masts and yardarms, offers rare insights into the maritime technology employed historically in the Lake Constance region.

Experts were fascinated by the preserved details, such as mooring elements and gear mechanisms, which were clearly visible due to minimal organic growth.

Scientific Approach and Preservation Efforts

This venture marked the pioneering detailed exploration of Lake Constance's floor to catalog underwater sites. Using bathymetric data collected via multibeam echo sounders, researchers scanned and analyzed underwater anomalies with side-scan sonar, subsequently validated by dives and ROV inspections to catalog the 31 discovered wrecks.

While the study thoroughly documented cultural monuments, there are no imminent recovery plans for individual items due to high costs. Instead, the focus remains on conserving their narrative value.

As project representative Alexandra Ulisch put it, shipwrecks serve as unique temporal keepsakes, preserving the craft and tales from bygone times, which offer invaluable research insights.

Lake Constance, or Bodensee, is bordered by Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, receiving its waters from the Rhine River. Being Germany's largest lake, it holds a well-regarded place as a tourist attraction.