In the heart of Gothenburg, nestled among the myriad vessels at the Maritiman marine museum, lies a captivating relic of Sweden's naval past: the HSwMS Sölve. This historic monitor, originally known as HMS Sölve, offers a fascinating glimpse into the maritime ingenuity of the 19th century. Built in the mid-1870s as part of the Hildur-class monitors, this ship stands as a testament to a bygone era of naval warfare and innovation.
The story of HSwMS Sölve begins with its launch in 1875. Named after Sölve, a semi-legendary King of Sweden, the monitor was designed by Lieutenant John Christian d'Ailly, following a proposal by the renowned John Ericsson. The vessel was crafted for the defense of Lake Mälaren and the Stockholm archipelago, embodying the strategic naval priorities of the time.
With a length of 39.78 meters and a displacement of 460 metric tons, the HSwMS Sölve was a formidable presence on the water. Its career, however, was largely uneventful, serving the Swedish Navy until its decommissioning in 1919. After being sold, the ship was converted into an oil barge, a fate that befell many military vessels of the era. Yet, destiny had a different plan for Sölve, and in 1992, it was acquired by the Gothenburg Maritima Centrum, where it was partially restored and transformed into a museum ship.
Today, visitors to the Maritiman marine museum can step aboard the HSwMS Sölve and immerse themselves in its storied past. As you walk along its decks, you can almost hear the echoes of its crew, who once numbered 48 officers and men. The ship's dual rudders at both bow and stern hint at the maneuverability that was crucial for its defensive role.
The engineering marvels of the HSwMS Sölve are evident in its propulsion system. The monitor was powered by a pair of two-cylinder horizontal-return connecting-rod steam engines, each driving a single propeller. These engines, fueled by two cylindrical boilers, produced a total of 155 indicated horsepower, propelling the ship to a maximum speed of 8 knots. It's a fascinating insight into the technological advancements of the time.
Scavenger hunts in Gothenburg
Discover Gothenburg with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Gothenburg with your team!
The HSwMS Sölve was armed to the teeth, featuring a 240-millimeter rifled breech loader mounted in a fixed, oval-shaped gun turret. This formidable weapon, weighing over 14 metric tons, could hurl projectiles with a muzzle velocity of 397 m/s, reaching targets up to 3,500 meters away. The ship also carried two 75-millimeter guns, later upgraded to a 120-millimeter quick-firing gun and three 57-millimeter quick-firing guns in the late 19th or early 20th century.
What made the HSwMS Sölve truly resilient was its armor. The monitor boasted a complete waterline armor belt of wrought iron, 76 millimeters thick, with additional protection for its turret and conning tower. This robust design ensured the ship could withstand significant enemy fire, making it a formidable opponent in any naval engagement.
Visiting the HSwMS Sölve is like stepping back in time. The ship's presence at the Maritiman marine museum offers a unique opportunity to explore Sweden's naval heritage. As you wander through the museum, you'll find that the Sölve is just one part of a larger narrative, surrounded by other historic vessels that together tell the story of Sweden's maritime evolution.
The museum itself is a treasure trove of naval history, with the HSwMS Sölve serving as one of its crown jewels. The ship's restoration allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and design that went into creating such a robust and effective monitor. It's a tangible link to a past where naval power played a crucial role in national security and international diplomacy.
For history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike, the HSwMS Sölve offers an engaging and educational experience. It's a chance to see firsthand the technological advancements and strategic thinking that defined naval warfare in the late 19th century. The ship's story is one of transformation and resilience, from a military vessel to an oil barge, and finally to a cherished museum exhibit.
In conclusion, the HSwMS Sölve is more than just a ship; it's a symbol of Sweden's rich maritime history and a testament to the enduring legacy of innovation and adaptation. Whether you're a maritime aficionado or simply curious about the past, a visit to this remarkable monitor in Gothenburg is an unforgettable journey through time.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.