Time Team: The Team's Favorite Digs Season 11 Episode 6 In Search of Henry V's Flagship, Grace Dieu
- February 6, 2005
In the sixth episode of season 11 of Time Team: The Team's Favorite Digs, the team sets out on a mission to find the remains of Henry V's flagship, Grace Dieu. Sunk in 1439, the Grace Dieu was one of the largest and most advanced ships of its time and was considered a major loss to the English navy.
The team, led by archaeologist Phil Harding, begins their search by analyzing old maps and consulting with experts to determine the most likely location of the shipwreck. They then head out on the water with sonar equipment to scan the seabed for any signs of the lost vessel. After several attempts, they finally catch a glimpse of some promising anomalies on the sonar.
Excited by their potential discovery, the team dons their scuba gear and plunges into the water to investigate further. What they uncover is a fascinating glimpse into the past, as they explore the remains of the 25-meter-long ship which had lain undisturbed on the seabed for over 500 years.
With the help of marine archaeologist Alex Hildred, the team pieces together the story of the Grace Dieu, now reduced to scattered timbers and rusting iron parts. They use cutting-edge technology to create a 3D map of the shipwreck, allowing them to get a better understanding of the ship's construction and layout.
As they continue their investigation, the team also explores nearby wrecks and potential landing sites, trying to piece together the bigger picture of the Battle of the Seine, which saw the English fleet defeated by the French. In the end, they uncover some surprising secrets about the Grace Dieu and her final resting place, shedding new light on a pivotal moment in English history.
Throughout the episode, the team faces various challenges, from bad weather and difficult conditions to the sheer size of the ship and the complexity of its construction. But their passion for archaeology and determination to uncover the truth keeps them going, as they push themselves to the limit to uncover the secrets of the past.
Overall, In Search of Henry V's Flagship, Grace Dieu is a thrilling and informative episode that showcases the very best of Time Team's collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to archaeology. Whether you're a history buff, a naval enthusiast, or simply curious about the mysteries of the past, this episode is sure to leave you spellbound.