In Gdansk, Poland, archaeologists have unearthed a medieval tomb that holds the remains of an unusually tall Teutonic Knight, dating back to the 13th century. This exciting find, which emerged after two years of excavation, reveals a skeleton standing about 1.8 meters (nearly six feet), taller than the average man of that era who typically measured between 1.65-1.75 meters (5’4″ to 5’7″).
The discovery originated from a site formerly occupied by the Teutonic Castle, a significant location for the Teutonic Order, which wielded power in medieval Poland. Alongside this tomb, over 250 burial sites were discovered, enhancing the archaeological importance of the area.
The tomb features a limestone gravestone, intricately carved to depict the knight wielding a sword, symbolizing his martial significance and possibly hinting at a high rank within the Teutonic Order. This finding not only sheds light on the physical attributes of knights during this period but also provides insight into their societal stature.
The excavation, spanning about one hectare and reaching depths of five meters, has yielded numerous artifacts, including tools and weapons, contributing to our understanding of life in medieval Gdansk. As the research continues, this site is recognized as an invaluable resource for historians studying the medieval impact of the Teutonic Order on Poland.
Source link