THE NAVAL BATTLE OF 1452

The first naval battle off the northern tip of Öland took place in 1452. It was fought between Sweden and Denmark-Norway together with Lübeck in The Northern Seven Year´s War.

The Swedish fleet lay at anchor off the coast of Öland when the Danish fleet appeared, seemingly preparing for battle. The Swedes found the situation unfavourable, weighed anchor and sailed towards Gotland. The Danes then landed on Öland to plunder the island.

Soon afterwards, the wind changed in Sweden´s favor. The Swedes turned to engage the Danes. When the Danes saw the Swedish ships approaching, they set sail and the two fleets clashed in a naval battle in Kalmarsund.

The fighting ceased at nightfall  but resumed the following day. By evening, the Danes began to retreat, but the Swedes managed to board and capture three Danish ships (Böse Lejonet, Morian and David) and took around 600 prisoners before the Danish fleet finally withdrew.

Detail from a painting by Pieter van Soest.