In an extraordinary twist of fate, a German homeowner, Peter Wittenberg, stumbled upon a rare 12th-century Christian stone carving while renovating his home in the quaint town of Klotzow, located on Germany’s northern coast. Nestled just beneath the foundation lay a three-foot boulder etched with the figure of a person bearing a cross— a find of monumental historical value.
This remarkable discovery is believed to be connected to Bishop Otto van Bamberg, a pivotal figure in the Christianization of Pomerania around 900 years ago, in 1124. State archeologist Dr. Detlef Jantzen emphasized its unparalleled significance, suggesting this artifact could represent a Christian dignitary from the era, potentially linked to Otto van Bamberg’s missionary work.
Further intrigue surrounds the stone’s origins, presumed to have been relocated to Klotzow in the 1800s, with only five similar artifacts known in the region. The research team is now dedicated to uncovering the stone’s original location and deeper historical implications.
Wittenberg’s prompt action in alerting the authorities has been highly commended by cultural officials, praising his contribution to enriching the national historical narrative. Minister of Culture Bettina Martin lauds this discovery as an especially serendipitous event, aligning with the 900th anniversary of Christianity’s spread in northern Germany. This serendipitous find not only celebrates a key figure in Germany’s religious history but also enriches our understanding of the Christian legacy in the region.
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