New hill graves in the Murtal: A trip to early history

New hill graves in the Murtal: A trip to early history

In the municipality of Pöls-Oberkurzheim, significant archaeological finds were recently discovered, which could significantly shape the early history landscape of the Murtal. Historical sites that were identified as hill tombs open up promising perspectives for research and could revolutionize the previous historiography of the region. "Our archaeological research may rewrite the early history of Styria," says Markus Egg, head of the Roman-Germanic Central Museum, on these sensational discoveries.

The Murtal region has been valued for its archaeological finds for over 170 years, not least because of the famous Fürstengrabe von Strettweg and a cult car that came to light in 1851. Thanks to the latest technologies such as ground radar and magnetics, the latest discoveries could now help to gain a more comprehensive view of the hierarchies and trade networks of the Iron Age.

The importance of the new finds

Gerfried Kaser, an experienced archaeologist of the project, emphasizes the immense importance of these discoveries. There are signs that at least 47 tall hill tombs can be found along old trade routes, which indicates the central role of the region as a trade hub. This could reveal new knowledge about the dominant cultures of the past and their networking with each other.

The conditions on site show that the region not only served as a simple Alpine crossing, but was also an important turntable for the exchange of goods and ideas. These discoveries are not only important for archeology, but also for Austria's cultural heritage.

Financial hurdles and future plans

If sufficient means are provided, it is planned to build a museum that is not only dedicated to the finds, but should also act as a modern research place. In addition to climatic chambers and laboratories, space is planned for around 50 employees who can support the research work.

The recording and the museum presentation of finds are also the concerns of locally committed groups. The Falkenberg Working Group and the Georg community in Praitenfurt are actively committed to researching and maintaining regional historical artifacts, often supported by EU funding.

Mayor Gernot Esser also expressed enthusiastically about the discoveries and the opportunity to see the history of the Murtal in new light. "I am excited to see what is slumbering in the graves," he noticed optimistically. Bruno Aschenbrenner, member of the state parliament, also pointed out the international interest that the region has received since the discovery of the Strettweger cult car.

The participation of the population in these historically significant projects is crucial to preserve the region's legacy and to present the future generation. However, the tense financing situation could be a hurdle that needs to be overcome in order to exploit the full potential of these important archaeological discoveries. The first successes show that the Murtal region still has many secrets.

For more information about the current developments in the archeology of the region, See the current report www.meinbezirk.at .