The State Office for Heritage Management and Archaeology in Saxony-Anhalt recently announced the results of an archaeological excavation of Marienkirche in Gardelegen, Germany. The church, built around 1200, was excavated between June 2022 and September 2023 to install underfloor heating. During the excavation, volunteers uncovered 1,000 artifacts spanning seven centuries, including 679 coins and coin fragments, garment pins, animal bones, ceramics, metal fittings, book clasps, pearls, glass shards, iron nails, personal tweezers, and plant remains. Notably, three dice were found, along with an unusual monkey sculpture made of leaded bronze, which sparked intense discussion among volunteers due to monkeys being considered sinful creatures in medieval times.
The discovery of the monkey sculpture was particularly intriguing, as depictions of monkeys in churches were not uncommon during the late Middle Ages. These animals were often shown engaging in human-like activities such as playing board games, making music, and mimicking humans. Monkeys were viewed as demonic creatures and as reflections of sinful behavior. The sculpture found in Marienkirche added to the ongoing discussion about the meaning and interpretation of such depictions in medieval religious contexts. The find highlighted the complex symbolism and artistic representations prevalent in medieval churches.
The excavation of Marienkirche revealed the importance of volunteer engagement in archaeological heritage management. The State Office for Heritage Management and Archaeology in Saxony-Anhalt praised the dense network of volunteers who assisted in the project, emphasizing their valuable contributions to preserving and interpreting historical sites. Volunteers played a crucial role in the excavation process, with many participating in the thorough examination of the exposed areas in search of lost coins and other artifacts. Their efforts led to the discovery of a diverse range of objects that shed light on the history and religious practices of the church.
The artifacts uncovered during the excavation provided valuable insights into the history and cultural practices of Marienkirche in Gardelegen. The discovery of the monkey sculpture and other unusual items added depth to the understanding of medieval religious symbolism and artistic representations. The presence of dice in a church setting was considered unusual, further highlighting the unique nature of the finds. Overall, the excavation yielded a wealth of information about the church’s past and the significance of volunteer efforts in preserving and interpreting archaeological sites.
The press release detailing the excavation results emphasized the meticulous work done by volunteers and the collaborative efforts of the State Office for Heritage Management and Archaeology in Saxony-Anhalt. The excavation, which took place over several months, involved the removal of the wooden floor in a 145-square-meter area, revealing a variety of artifacts buried beneath. The findings, including coins, ceramics, metal objects, and plant remains, provided a comprehensive picture of the church’s history and the activities that took place within its walls. The discovery of the monkey sculpture sparked a lively debate among experts, underscoring the complexity of interpreting historical artifacts in a religious context.
In conclusion, the excavation of Marienkirche in Gardelegen, Germany, uncovered a diverse array of artifacts that shed light on the history and cultural practices of the medieval church. The involvement of dedicated volunteers and the collaborative efforts of heritage management officials highlighted the importance of preserving and interpreting archaeological sites. The unusual finds, including the monkey sculpture and dice, added an intriguing dimension to the understanding of religious symbolism and artistic representations in medieval churches. The excavation served as a reminder of the rich history hidden beneath the surface and the valuable contributions of volunteers in uncovering and preserving this heritage.
