Wernigerode: Sensational finds discovered in the old Himmelpforte monastery!

Wernigerode: Sensational finds discovered in the old Himmelpforte monastery!

Himmelpforte, Wernigerode, Deutschland - In the Harz, archaeologists come to significant discoveries in the former Augustinian manner Himmelpforte near Wernigerode. During the excavations, the remains of a Gothic church were uncovered, which could be identified as three -aisled pillar basilica with a length of at least 40 meters. The archaeologists documented the well-preserved stone slabs and brick floors, which testify to high quality. The remarkable finds also include two decorated grave slabs from the 15th and early 16th centuries, including the portrait of the noble Claudia von Königstedt from 1520.

The excavations, which are supposed to continue until October 10, 2024, were part of comprehensive archaeological studies that were initiated by the State Office for the Preservation of Monuments and Archeology in Saxony-Anhalt. This research aims to obtain information about the location of the shape and building history of the monastery, which was founded in 1253 by the von Hartesrode family. The monastery, which was once an important religious, cultural and economic center, was almost completely destroyed during the Reformation period. Only monastery ponds and a few remains of the wall are still preserved today, as Archeology online

historical background

The Himmelpforte monastery was an important part of spiritual life in the region until it was lifted as part of the Reformation. Historically, the monastery is also known because Martin Luther was there on August 6, 1516. On April 30th or May 1, 1525, it was stormed and looted by rebellious farmers and citizens from Wernigerode. During this unrest, the ringleader, a barber from Wernigerode, was sentenced to death, but then pardoned and banished from the county.

The current excavations are part of a comprehensive project, which is funded by the state of Saxony-Anhalt with around 540,000 euros from federal funds and 360,000 euros. In 2023, revealing findings were already documented in a probing dug in July, which means that the upcoming excavation work is particularly important. These measures are an important step to better understand the history of the monastery and its influence on the region, according to news38 .

-transmitted by West-Ost-Medien