13th c. cross-engraved tombstone found in Gdańsk

A 13th century granite tombstone carved with a relief of a Latin cross has been discovered in Gdańsk, Poland. It is one of seven tombstones, including two others also carved with Latin crosses, found in the excavation of the site of the former Miś (Teddy Bear) ice cream parlor. The stone has not been lifted yet, but presumably it marks the spot of a grave containing human remains

The ice cream parlor excavation last year unearthed the remains of the oldest church in Gdańsk, a wooden church built in around 1140. About 200 graves were found surrounding the church. A slab carved with the silhouette of a knight was one of the tombstones found last year.

This place is absolutely unique. It was here last summer that the grave of someone of note was discovered—perhaps a member of the princely elite. This is evidenced by a limestone tombstone depicting a knight in chainmail, with a sword and shield—crafted from imported Gotland limestone. Beneath the tombstone lay the complete skeleton of a tall man for the time, likely someone of considerable importance.

Large granite slabs with Latin crosses are often associated with the burials of Teutonic Knights. Two similar pieces found years ago at Gdańsk Castle and now in the collection of the Malbork Castle Museum are indeed Teutonic tombstones. The ice cream parlor tombstones are earlier, however. The Teutonic Knights took over Gdańsk in 1308, whereas the cross-engraved slabs found in the recent excavation date to the 13th century when Gdańsk was ruled by the dukes of Pomerania.

* This article was originally published here