ADVERTISING
Bone finds, wall remains and handwriting on roof slate – results of the excavations presented
During sewer renovations around Darmstadt's city church, archaeological investigations have unearthed numerous traces of the city's history. City Councillor Michael Kolmer presented the findings at a press conference on Friday (July 4th): Among the discoveries were burial remains from Darmstadt's oldest cemetery, fragments of historical buildings, and a manuscript dating from 1704.
The work was carried out by e-netz Südhessen AG from May 2023 to May 2024 and was accompanied by archaeological monitoring. The project was prompted by the known location of the formerly walled churchyard, which was used as a cemetery until the late 16th century, and in some parts until the 18th century. The archaeological documentation was undertaken by SPAU GmbH on behalf of e-netz Südhessen, in coordination with the Lower Monument Protection Authority and hessenARCHÄOLOGIE at the State Office for Monument Preservation.
Bone finds and traces of historical burials
During the excavations, several graves were documented – including burials in elaborately crafted coffins with preserved traces of wood and handle decorations. Both complete skeletons and bone fragments, typical of inner-city cemeteries, were found. The lack of space at that time often led to the opening of older graves. The bones were sometimes refilled or transferred to charnel houses.
A large layer of bones southwest of the church could be interpreted as the remains of an ossuary. The documented burials included men, women, and children.
Remnants of walls and evidence of older buildings
Furthermore, several sections of wall were discovered, some belonging to the old churchyard wall, others to older buildings whose origins are no longer clearly identifiable. Remains of the former fire station, destroyed in 1944, were also documented. Individual ceramic finds can be dated back to the 12th century, thus reaching back to the beginnings of the town.
A particularly noteworthy find is two slate slabs with incised inscriptions dating from 1704. In cooperation with the city archives, the handwriting was attributed to a craftsman who was working on the city church during a renovation project.
Significance for urban history and urban development
City Councillor Michael Kolmer emphasizes the relevance of the excavations: "The investigation shows how many historical traces of the city's past are still preserved in Darmstadt's soil. It is important to document these traces in order to secure the sources of the city's history and at the same time to continue shaping Darmstadt's development responsibly."
In the future, the city will continue to work together with hessenARCHÄOLOGIE and the respective developers to combine archaeological findings with urban planning measures in the best possible way.
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/Stip)
