Recent research has led to a surprising archaeological find in Denmark, where a medieval convent was discovered beneath a soccer field. This significant find was announced by ROMU, a Danish museum organization.
Discovery in Roskilde
The convent, St. Clare’s, dates back to the 13th century. It was uncovered through ground-penetrating radar, intended to evaluate the area before constructing an underground parking facility. The survey revealed a well-preserved convent complex around three feet below the surface, showcasing the southern wing’s structures, including rooms, columns, and a church.
The eastern part is remarkably well-preserved, with clearly defined rooms and vault pillars, as per the official statement.
St. Clare’s was one of five monastic sites in medieval Roskilde. Unlike the other four, it was considered lost and therefore not protected as an ancient site. Archaeologists are planning trial excavations at the proposed parking location.
Expert Insights
Excavations of such sites are uncommon, pointed out Jesper Langkilde, an archaeologist and museum curator at ROMU. He expressed surprise over the extent of the findings.
Despite being demolished in the 16th century, a large portion of the convent’s underground structure has survived. Langkilde noted that historical records indicate about 500,000 bricks were sold post-demolition, but the full convent likely contained double that amount.
Expectations from Excavation
While excavation is pending, archaeologists expect to unearth many artifacts related to medieval life, from pottery fragments and animal bones to religious objects like crosses and rosary beads. The convents were centers of literacy and possibly housed writing tools and personal items such as combs and needles.
If organic matter remains well-preserved, it could offer clues about the nuns’ diets and the plant life in the convent gardens. Burials found onsite might reveal information about the nuns and others buried there. Langkilde highlighted the potential to explore the convent’s international connections, possibly tracing back to a convent in Strasbourg.
This discovery is crucial because little archaeological research on Roskilde’s monasteries exists. It could significantly enhance the understanding of these religious institutions that played a crucial role in the town’s medieval significance.