Kyffhäuser: Archaeologists discover lost treasures of the past

Veröffentlicht:

Von:

The world of archeology is full of surprises and sometimes it happens by chance that significant discoveries are made. One of these happy coincidences recently took place in beautiful Thuringia, more precisely in the Kyffhäuser Mountains, which is a popular place for researchers and those interested in history due to its diverse history.

The Kyffhäuser, a historic low mountain ranges south of the Harz, is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes, but also for important archaeological sites, including the ruins of the Reichsburg Kyffhausen. This historical site attracts annual visitors who want to explore the remains of past epochs. But now a random find from the 1930s could provide the archaeologists new questions and answers.

an unexpected discovery

In the recent excavations at Kyffhäuser, the researchers came across a box with excavation documents from 1937 and 1938. This box contains a wealth of valuable information that raises numerous questions about the historical circumstances of the fortress. "Researcher generations have been waiting for this," says Robert Knechtel, head of the North Area Department at the Thuringian State Office for Monument Conservation and Archeology. This box contains hundreds of index cards with drawings of ceramic finds, which can be dated until the 11th to 15th centuries.

The meaning of these documents cannot be emphasized sufficiently. The cards include drawings of bowls, pots, cooking vessels and drinking cups that enable the researchers to precisely date the finds. These finds are not only of historical interest, they also offer an insight into the way of life and the everyday life of the people of past centuries.

a treasure for research

Holger Grönwald, which is responsible for the excavation work, describes the index cards as a "true treasure for research". They provide essential information about the foundation areas and enable a more precise spatial assignment of the finds within the upper castle of the Kyffhäuser. The newly discovered knowledge could clarify where formerly important buildings have stood and gives an insight into the excavation activities that were taken in the 1930s. Because of the then National Socialists, numerous valuable medieval finds were irrevocably destroyed during their excavations, since they were looking for a Germanic "altitude" with the hope.

The newly discovered information should be entered in a database in order to better document the location data of the finds. This data could significantly expand the traditional knowledge around 1118, which was considered a historical source for the conquest of the Kyffhäuser. Future excavations on the castle site are already being planned, which further increases the anticipation of archaeologists to new findings.

Part of the original finds is located in Jena, Weimar, Halle, Bad Frankenhausen and on the Kyffhäuser itself. Despite this promising discovery, Grönwald points out that a large part of the objects have now been disappeared. This influences the overall rating of the finds and leaves room for regret.

a look into the past

The random find in the excavations in Thuringia impressively shows how much knowledge is still hidden underground and what importance excavations have for our historical understanding. The discovery not only brings new bright spots into the history of the Kyffhäuser, but could also inspire, inspire, inspire and advance numerous research that deals with the medieval past.

The valuable information from the box could help to re -draw the image of the story as we know it and bring us closer to the living conditions of our ancestors. It remains exciting what the coming weeks and months will still have for archeology in Thuringia.

historical context of the Kyffhäuser

The Kyffhäuser has a long and multifaceted story that goes back to early history. In the Middle Ages, the Kyffhäuser was an important place for the German rulers. The Reichsburg Kyffhausen, which was built in the 11th century, served as a residence and defense system. This castle was not only a military center, but also a place of political decisions and cultural activities. Historical documents, such as the "Chronicle of Germans", emphasize the strategic importance of Görlitzer Straße, which was near the castle.

In addition, the Kyffhäuser is a central point in the legend around Emperor Barbarossa. According to legends, Barbarossa sleeps in the depths of the Kyffhäuser and will resurrect one day to unite the German Empire. This tradition not only reflects national identity, but also shows how mythology and history are interwoven.

The importance of the latest discoveries

The newly discovered index cards and finds from the excavations not only have archaeological relevance, but also an immense importance for understanding local history and culture. The ceramic finds offer insights into the everyday life of people in the Middle Ages and enable researchers to better understand social structures and trade relationships. The categorization of ceramics can provide references to various craftsman practices and the influence of external trade currents.

These finds are also a valuable contribution to museum education. By integrating this new information, the Kyffhäuser Foundation can convey a more comprehensive picture of the regional heritage and promote interest in the history of the Kyffhäuser.

Current research projects and methods

In order to further research the new discoveries, modern technologies are integrated into archaeological work. Digital mapping, 3D modeling and geophysical studies are now basic tools in archaeological research. These methods enable more precise and detailed analysis of the sites, which contributes to the development of new knowledge.

An exemplary project is the "landscape archeology", which not only takes into account individual plausibility of finds, but also examines the entire environment and the use of landscapes. Such holistic approaches help to understand the interaction of the historical settlements and their context.

Statistical findings on archaeological research in Germany

According to the Association of State Archeologists in Germany, over 20,000 archaeological finds have been registered annually in recent years. These finds come from numerous excavations and research projects across Germany. The number of articles and scientific publications that deal with finds is particularly revealing; It has increased steadily in recent years. In 2021, over 300 new scientific works on the subject of medieval archeology were published.

These statistics illustrate the continued interest in archeology and show how important this research is to understand our past. The availability of historical finds and documents, such as the discovery of the box from 1937/38, ensures that the scientists can gain new knowledge in Thuringia and beyond and make an important contribution to our historical heritage.