In Unterstetten, Upper Austria, researchers have discovered a mysterious underground structure.
This cave system, which was created by humans about 800 years ago, poses numerous mysteries to science.
The find belongs to the so-called "earth cellars" that were created in the Middle Ages. Such tunnel systems are known in several regions of Europe, but their purpose and why they were suddenly abandoned remains a mystery.
According to a report by Futurezone, a team from the Upper Austria University of Applied Sciences, Campus Wels, will now digitally record the earth cellars.
The underground structure in Unterstetten is 35 meters long, seven meters deep, and consists of seven rooms and six connecting corridors.
Through digitization, researchers hope to gain new insights into the architecture, possible uses, and historical significance of the earth cellars.
Unknown Purpose
Various theories exist, but none have been completely convincing so far. Some experts suspect that the earth cellars may have had spiritual or ritual purposes, while others see them as possibly empty graves.
The researchers rely on modern 3D scanning technologies and image processing to create detailed virtual models.
These models will be made accessible to the public via online platforms and interactive exhibitions, without damaging the delicate structures by walking on them.
The initiative is intended to represent a major step towards the preservation and research of this cultural heritage.
