An Archaeological Study of an Underwater Cannon Site in the Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, the Baltic Sea

An archaeological analysis of an underwater cannon site at the sea fortress Suomenlinna reveals that the studied cannon likely originated from a coastal defense system, rather than a Swedish warship located nearby. The research focused on one barrel and carriage, employing material culture studies to determine its original context. By examining the cannon's characteristics and comparing them with known ship-based artifacts, the study sheds light on the reuse of cannons in Suomenlinna's history, particularly around its church. This finding contributes to understanding the fortress's strategic significance during the Swedish era (c. 1450–1850) and the broader material culture of naval defense in the Baltic Sea.

Koivikko, M., Aakala, T., Brchisky, S., Cleasby, D., Hyttinen, K., Jokinen, J. J., Le Rudulier, X., & Näsänen, L. (2026). An Archaeological Study of an Underwater Cannon Site in the Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, the Baltic Sea. Material Culture in the Swedish Navy, c. 1450-1850, 139–165. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003699408-7