Sunken guns from the Klein Hollandia, which went down in battle in 1672
(Picture: Cathy De Lara)The origins of a shipwreck discovered off the coast of Eastbourne have finally been identified after four years of dives and intensive scientific research.
The sunken warship, which lies 32 metres under the English Channel, was known as the ‘Unknown Wreck off Eastbourne’ – but it has now been identified as the Klein Hollandia, sunk in battle in 1672.
The Klein Hollandia was returning to the Netherlands packed full of Italian marble tiles and pottery for luxury homes when it was attacked by an English squadron under Admiral Robert Holmes close to the Isle of Wight.
The commander of the ship, Jan Van Nes was killed in action and the ship was boarded and conquered by the English. But shortly after the Klein Hollandia sank with both English and Dutch sailors on board.
This surprise attack by the small squadron under Sir Robert Holmes and Sir Frecheville Holles contributed to the start of the Third Anglo-Dutch War.
The wreck was discovered by local dive operator David Ronnan in 2019, who has helped investigate the remains ever since.
Mark Beattie Edwards, CEO of the Nautical Archaeology Society, said: “From our very first dive on the wreck, back in April 2019, we have been fascinated by the range of material on the seabed.
“The impressive amount of wooden hull structure, the ship’s cannons, the beautifully cut marble tiles, as well as the pottery finds, all point towards this being a Dutch ship from the late 17th century coming back from Italy. Now, after four years of investigation and research, we can confidently identify the vessel.”
Historic England said the condition of the wreck is “remarkable and could offer a wealth of information about how 17th-century Dutch ships were built and the activities of the warship during its final voyage”.
They added: “Material found on the seabed includes much of the wooden hull, cannons, Italian marble tiles and pieces of Italian pottery. The marble tiles came from the Apuan Alps quarries close to Carrara in Italy.
“They were conserved by Historic England archaeological conservators, prior to the investigations. The marble tiles were bound for the Netherlands and would have been used to build high-status homes.”
The Klein Hollandia, owned by the Admiralty of Rotterdam, was involved in all major battles in the second Anglo-Dutch war (1665-1667).
