<digresssion on the above mentioned ship (Vasa)> Incidentally, I happened to spend a few hours at the Vasa Museum in Stockholm earlier this year. It's a glori

<digresssion on the above mentioned ship (Vasa)> Incidentally, I happened to spend a few hours at the Vasa Museum in Stockholm earlier this year. It's a glorious 17th-century wooden ship. In 1628, it sank like a stone, after travelling just one KM on its maiden journey in Stockholm waters; 30 out of the 145 people died. And Vasa stayed under water for 333 years. Then it was recovered in 1961—the only (?) 17th century ship to be preserved. Its ongoing preservation itself a singularly unique scientific project. It's a spectacular ship, with hundreds of impressive wooden sculptures, carvings and other abilities (displaying the might of the king). 95% of the ship is in remarkably original condition—because, luckily for the ship, the Baltic Sea is not conducive to shipworms. If you are around the area, definitely take the time visit it. (The small city island where it's located, Djurgården, also has other serene places.) </end digression>