In Chalby, northern Germany, archaeologists have discovered a rare bronze cauldron from the 3rd to 5th century AD. The cauldrons were found through a collaboration between the Schleswig-Holstein State Archaeological Office and Aarhus University. Known as the “Westland Cauldrons”, these cauldrons provide important evidence of ancient trade and cultural exchange. Cauldrons were previously thought to have been found only in Scandinavia and the Rhine region, but the discovery of cauldrons in northern Germany poses a major challenge to how we view the extent of Roman-era trade networks. Researchers hope to use advanced techniques, including “block lifting” and computed tomography (CT) scans, to preserve the cauldron while also understanding any hidden contents that may be buried within. This work will deepen our understanding of the complexity of social hierarchies and economic interconnectedness during the migration period.
1,700-year-old bronze cauldron discovered in northern Germany with ties to Roman Empire
The Westland cauldron discovered at Chalby reflects an extensive trade network between the Norse elite and Rome to an extent beyond historians’ previous estimates. Elite goods such as these are probably only thought to have reached areas such as Scandinavia and the Rhine Basin. As the research report of the Schleswig-Holstein State Archaeological Office points out, these discoveries at the Schleswig-Holstein archaeological site indicate the existence of long-distance communication networks between local elite groups in the Roman world and these Nordic elites between the 3rd and 5th centuries AD. Indeed, trade, diplomacy, and ritual exchange existed between the Roman world and the scattered and heterogeneous communities of Northern Europe long before the Viking Age.
How CT scans protect fragile archaeological finds
The metal is very fragile, so archaeologists used non-destructive block lifting methods to excavate the cauldron and the earth around it to prevent them from falling and cracking during excavation. The crucibles have been CT scanned and will undergo controlled laboratory inspection once the scan is completed.Through imaging, without the use of force, archaeologists can examine the interior of these cauldrons to determine whether the containers contained objects or whether there were other objects that might have been among the grave goods associated with them. Imaging of the cauldron allows archaeologists to preserve the integrity of the archaeological context in the archaeological record.
Why Rome’s elite items were buried in Germany
Preliminary research suggests the cauldrons appear to have been placed inside each other, leading experts to believe they were deposited deliberately and could have been ritual storage or sacred grave goods. The intentional burial of these valuable imported items may indicate that they were highly symbolic of social status and spiritual value among the indigenous Germanic peoples. The Schleswig-Holstein State Archaeological Office will continue its investigation to assess the original use of the deposit and try to determine whether the deposit is of an organic nature, which could provide more information about ancient food habits or funerary practices.
