Polish archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in Gdańsk, uncovering the tomb of a medieval knight beneath the former site of an ice cream parlor. The tomb, found in the historic center of the city, contains a well-preserved skeleton and a unique limestone tombstone imported from Sweden’s Gotland Island. The artifact, dating back to the late 13th or 14th century, features detailed carvings of a warrior in full chainmail armor, holding a sword and shield.
The tomb was discovered in the city’s Śródmieście district, a historic area known for its medieval architecture and the oldest wooden church in Poland, built around 1140. The discovery highlights the significance of the site as a center of power, faith, and burial during the medieval period in Gdańsk. Archaeologists from ArcheoScan noted the tombstone’s remarkable preservation, despite being made of soft limestone and buried for centuries.
Experts believe the knight, who stood between 5’5″ and 5’9″, was of above-average stature for his time. While no grave goods were found, the tomb’s proximity to the 13th-century cemetery and the ancient church provides insight into medieval burial practices. The team plans to conduct further research, including genetic analysis and isotopic studies, to explore the knight’s origins, health, and diet. A facial reconstruction is also scheduled, offering a glimpse into the appearance of this medieval warrior.