• News
  • Medieval clay figures found in Mitte construction site

Wednesday, 18 December

Medieval clay figures found in Mitte construction site

Archaeologists in Berlin have unearthed remarkable 15th-century clay figures, including Saint Catherine and the Madonna, at the Molkenmarkt excavation site in Mitte.

Photo: IMAGO / PEMAX

Wednesday, 18 December

Medieval clay figures found in Mitte construction site

Archaeologists working at the Molkenmarkt excavation site in Mitte have unearthed a trove of remarkable 15th-century religious artifacts. Among the discoveries are two nearly-intact statuettes. One of Saint Catherine and another of the Madonna, both made from white clay.

The Molkenmarkt, once the centre of medieval Berlin, has been largely obscured by urban development and wartime destruction. The ongoing excavation, part of the Grunerstraße reconstruction project, is shedding light on the city’s forgotten past. The discoveries are significant, providing valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of Berlin’s early inhabitants.

The excavation has yielded over 600,000 artifacts since its inception five years ago, highlighting the rich historical layers buried beneath the modern city. With work set to continue until the end of 2025, more fascinating discoveries are sure to come.