A Medieval Bronze Cross Reunites with Its Lost Mould After 40 Years
An extraordinary archaeological discovery in eastern Germany has reunited a medieval bronze cross with the mould used to cast it—more than four decades after the mould itself was found.
New Medieval Books: Old High German Poetry
Old High German was spoken between the eighth and eleventh centuries, and a small but significant body of its literature has survived. This anthology brings together editions and translations of about a dozen poetic works, spanning subjects from religious devotion to historical narrative.
When Was Violence Legitimate? Feuds and Just War in Early Medieval Germany
When was violence acceptable in the early Middle Ages? Examining feuds, just war, and how early medieval Germany defined legitimate and illegitimate conflict.
Medieval Shoes, a Sock, and a Coin Hoard Unearthed in Berlin
Leather shoes and a sock are among the headline medieval finds from the Molkenmarkt excavation in Berlin, alongside a small hoard of coins.
Uncovering Medieval North Frisia: New Research Unit Explores Human Impact on the Wadden Sea
The TORF Research Unit is uncovering the medieval past of North Frisia’s Wadden Sea—revealing drowned settlements like Rungholt, storm surge disasters, and centuries-old human efforts to shape the coastline.
Excavations at Neuenburg Castle Reveal Lost Medieval Buildings
Archaeologists in Germany are uncovering hidden medieval buildings beneath Neuenburg Castle’s great tower. These new excavations are reshaping the history of this fortress founded in the 11th century.
New Medieval Books: Medieval Silesia
Silesia, a region in eastern Europe now divided between southwest Poland, the Czech Republic, and Germany, was once a powerful duchy in the Middle Ages. This book explores its politics, society, and the people who shaped its history.
Archbishop Albero of Trier: Master of Siege Warfare in Medieval Germany
Learn how Archbishop Albero of Trier used siege warfare to secure independence and reshape power in medieval Germany.
New Medieval Books: Frederick Barbarossa
This biography chronicles the life of Frederick Barbarossa, one of the most influential figures of the 12th century. As Holy Roman Emperor, his reign was marked by a relentless struggle for power across the German and Italian realms, as well as a pivotal role in the Crusades.
Falkenstein Castle Delays Reopening After Wall Collapse
Falkenstein Castle in Germany will remain closed until March 2026 after a wall collapse delayed renovation plans. Structural repairs are now underway to ensure visitor safety.
New Medieval Books: The Making of Medieval Central Europe
As the Poles, Czechs, and Hungarians established their medieval states, they became deeply entangled with the Holy Roman Empire and other Western European powers. This book explores the complex politics and state-building processes of Central Europe, a region marked by both cooperation and conflict.
Otto the Great’s Tomb Opened for Investigation and Conservation Work
The tomb of Otto the Great has been opened in Magdeburg Cathedral. Conservators discovered human remains, medieval textiles, and grave goods as part of a major conservation project to save the emperor’s burial site.
Sin and Creativity in the Middle Ages: New Book Explores Medieval German Devotional Writing
A new book by Sarah Bowden explores how sin and penance inspired literary creativity in medieval Germany, offering fresh insights into devotional writing and the development of the German language.
Rethinking Rye: Study Reveals Medieval Cultivation Was Intensive and Strategic
New research reveals that rye in the Middle Ages was not a humble crop of poor soils but part of a labour-intensive farming system that reinforced social hierarchies.
775 and the Making of Westphalia: Medieval Manuscript Featured in Paderborn
A 9th-century manuscript containing the first mention of “Westphalia” will soon be on display in Paderborn as part of a major anniversary exhibition exploring the medieval origins of the region.
Frederick Barbarossa with Graham Loud
This week on The Medieval Podcast, Danièle speaks with Graham Loud about how Barbarossa came to power, how he managed to reign supreme in both Germany and Italy despite some bumps along the way, and why he’s sometimes revered as a once and future king in Germany.
Medieval Settlement Unearthed in Germany Reveals Rare Sword Belt Fitting
Archaeologists in Paderborn, Germany, have uncovered an early medieval settlement beneath a field once thought to hold Bronze Age graves—revealing pit houses, irrigation systems, and a rare Carolingian-era sword belt fitting.
Excavations at the Danevirke: Preparing for a New Era of Visitor Engagement
Archaeologists are once again uncovering the secrets of the Danevirke, one of the most significant fortification systems of the early medieval period, as preparations continue for the development of the Danevirke Archaeological Park.
Medieval Children’s Graves Found Beneath a Lost Church in Germany
Beneath a German parking lot, archaeologists have uncovered the forgotten remains of a medieval church—and a heartbreaking burial site of at least 30 children. The discovery sheds light on a little-known medieval burial practice meant to safeguard unbaptized souls.
Medieval Church Excavation in Germany Uncovers Mysterious Monkey Figurine
Archaeologists working in St. Mary’s Church (Marienkirche) in Gardelegen, Germany, have made an unexpected discovery: a small lead-bronze figurine of a monkey, buried beneath the medieval church for centuries.
Why Is Saint Maurice Depicted as African? Seven Medieval Theories
Why does a 13th-century German statue depict Saint Maurice with African features? This article explores seven medieval theories, from linguistic associations to imperial propaganda, that shaped his striking portrayal in medieval art.
Archaeologists Uncover Medieval Farm in Germany
Archaeologists in Germany have uncovered the remains of a medieval farm complex in the town of Greven-Gimbte, dating back to the 11th to 13th centuries.
Medieval Staircase Unearthed at Sparrenburg Castle in Germany
Archaeological work at Sparrenburg Castle, located in western Germany, has revealed a staircase descending deep into a medieval moat.
New Medieval Books: Giants in the Medieval City
In the Late Middle Ages, particularly in German-speaking lands, the perception of giants underwent a notable transformation—from monstrous and malevolent figures to noble and heroic ones. This book explores numerous examples where giants, and those considered “gigantic,” evolved into celebrated hometown heroes.
