During construction work in Germany, an incredible archaeological discovery was made: a 900-year-old picture stone believed to date back to the 12th century.
This rare stone was uncovered by homeowner Peter Wittenberg and has already sparked excitement among historians and archaeologists alike.
The stone is made of hewn granite, weighs half a ton, and measures one meter in height, 60 centimeters in width, and 40 centimeters in depth.
More importantly, it features an engraved image of a human figure holding a cross in front of its body, a depiction that has led experts to speculate about its historical significance.
Photo: Christian Moeller / Ministry of Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
The stone was found while Wittenberg was working on the foundation of his house in Klotzow, in the Vorpommern-Greifswald district of Germany. It was discovered lying horizontally, with the image facing up, just 10 to 20 centimeters below the surface.
Wittenberg, who believes his house was built in the 18th century, suspects that the stone might have been repurposed as a step or possibly used in a bricked-up doorway.
According to a press release by MV, the stone was transported to Schwerin for examination and documentation. On Wednesday, it was publicly presented by Culture Minister Bettina Martin and state archaeologist Dr. Detlef Jantzen, who was joined by the proud finder.
What makes this discovery particularly exciting is the possibility that the figure depicted on the stone could be a Christian dignitary, possibly even Bishop Otto of Bamberg. Otto was a key figure in the Christianization of Pomerania, and 2024 marks the 900th anniversary of his first missionary journey.
A Possible Link to Bishop Otto?
Dr. Detlef Jantzen suggested that the figure on the stone might indeed be a religious leader, possibly Bishop Otto of Bamberg (circa 1060-1139).
The cross in the engraving hangs on what looks like a scarf, possibly representing a pallium—a symbol given by the Pope to high-ranking church officials.
Otto received a pallium in 1111, adding to the connection with the famous bishop.
Picture stones like this are extremely rare. In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, only five have been found, with others located in Poland. The stone from Klotzow is the only known example featuring a figure holding a cross.
This discovery has led to plans for further archaeological investigations in Klotzow, where traces of a former church or chapel have been found. There's also evidence of a historic ferry landing in the village that connected to the island of Usedom, a site linked to Otto’s missionary work.
A 3D model of the stone is being created for a closer analysis of the depiction. However, some details remain unclear, like what the figure is holding in its right hand.
Bishop Otto of Bamberg, who was later made a saint, made two missionary journeys to Pomerania in 1124 and 1128, helping to spread Christianity in the region. Historical records suggest that he may have crossed from Klotzow to Usedom, though this remains uncertain.
