Earth's Riches Unveiled
Historic Discoveries Unearthed in Berlin's Molkenmarkt Excavation
In the heart of Berlin, a significant archaeological project is underway, unearthing a wealth of historical treasures that shed light on the city's past. The site, previously a car park and road, is now a treasure trove of artifacts dating back to the city's founding up to the 20th century.
The excavation, which began six years ago, has been one of the largest urban core excavations in Germany. Spanning an area of approximately 22,000 square meters, the site has revealed remnants from several centuries of Berlin's history. The team has uncovered a 50-meter-long plank road from around 1230, defensive ditches from the 13th century, hundreds of wells and latrines dating from the 13th to 18th centuries, and remains of medieval wooden cellars, houses, ovens, and smithies.
One of the most intriguing finds includes a rare 13th-century coin hoard, 188 clay figurines of women with bone splinters, a 14th-century fishing net sinker, a bone flute from the same century, 15th-century clothing items such as a sock and leather shoes, a silk ribbon from the mid-15th century, 17th-century toys (marbles), and 18th-century flintstones for firearms.
The findings provide an extraordinarily detailed picture of Berlin’s medieval and early modern daily life, craftsmanship, and urban development, preserved exceptionally well by mid-20th-century surface sealing. Many of these discoveries are now exhibited at the PETRI Berlin museum, offering the public insight into the city's rich archaeological heritage.
The excavation work is not without its challenges. Rerouting streets and utilities have been necessary to accommodate the dig. Despite these obstacles, the team is making steady progress, reaching an average depth of four meters. The excavations could continue until the end of 2027.
The site is planned to become a new residential quarter, with residential buildings slated to be constructed as early as 2029. In a nod to the site's rich history, architectural windows will be included in the new buildings to offer a glimpse into the city's past.
Urban Development Senator Christian Gaebler (SPD) stated that they are repairing the city at the site. An architectural competition has started for the design of buildings on the site, with a new residential quarter planned in front of the Red City Hall.
By 2032, the first residents could move into their new homes, living above the layers of history that the excavation has unearthed. This project serves as a testament to the city's commitment to preserving its past while moving forward into the future.
[1] Berliner Morgenpost [2] Deutsche Welle [3] The Local [4] The Art Newspaper
In the near future, real-estate developments may arise from the previously excavated Molkenmarkt site, showcasing architectural windows that offer reminders of Berlin's historical past. Interestingly, an individual's home in this new residential quarter could be an investment in both modern living and a piece of history, linking finance and investing with real-estate.
