In 1628, a shrunken, dried brain was discovered aboard the Swedish warship Vasa, believed to belong to a crew member named Helge.
Found beneath a cannon, his remains, including parts of his hair, toenails, and clothing, were remarkably well-preserved, likely due to iron from the cannons and ship bolts. Despite its preservation, the brain contained no DNA or cell structure, resembling more of a soap-like form. Helge, about 30 years old and 163 cm tall, carried a small knife and 35 copper coins when he died.
The ship, recovered in 1961 after 333 years underwater, provides an extraordinary look into 17th-century naval history. Helge’s clothing and items helped researchers learn more about the life and status of those aboard.
This fascinating discovery continues to shed light on Sweden’s maritime past, offering a unique historical narrative that blends science, history, and archaeology.
