Newport Medieval Ship

Discovery

The Newport Medieval Ship was uncovered during deep excavations for the Riverfront Theatre, along the west bank of River Usk in the town centre of Newport.

The mid 15th century merchant ship was discovered in June 2002 and excavated and raised over the next six months. A team of archaeologists documented the ship and also found a wide range of exciting artefacts, including leather shoes, coins, and even a skeleton.

The public followed the excavation with great interest and support. The remains of the ship and the artefacts were eventually brought to the Newport Ship centre. Archaeologists and conservators are meticulously cleaning, recording, modelling and preserving the thousands of objects that comprise one of the most exciting medieval assemblages ever found.

Today the work is focused primarily on conserving the ship timbers and artefacts, and determining the original hull form (shape) of the ship.