Opening of Otto's grave: researchers reveal big secrets!

Opening of Otto's grave: researchers reveal big secrets!

On July 6, 2025, an exciting chapter in German history opened in Magdeburg Cathedral. Otto the Great, the first German emperor and founder of the Holy Roman Empire, was buried in this impressive building in 973. But now his tomb is under great scrutiny because it shows massive damage. The need for comprehensive conservation measures has been recognized during extensive research carried out since the beginning of 2025. As Merkur reports, the tomb is looked after by the Cultural Foundation of Saxony-Anhalt, the Evangelical Cathedral Community and the State Office for Monument Preservation and Archeology of Saxony-Anhalt.

The grave, which has significant damage, has been protected by a closed enclosure made of wood-based panels since January 2025. This measure allows the necessary work to be carried out under optimal conditions. In March 2025, the 300 kilogram cover plate of the stone sarcophagus was removed; A simple wooden coffin appeared underneath. This was then opened to secure the bones it contained as well as textile fragments and other materials, as idw-online reports. When first examined, the human remains show the characteristics of an older man with a height of around 1.79 m.

Conservation measures and research

In order to protect the tomb of Otto the Great, various preliminary investigations were carried out. This includes documentary surveys, the creation of high-resolution 3D models and non-invasive methods such as geo-radar and ultrasound measurements. These analyzes have revealed worrying moisture and salt levels in the sarcophagus as well as corrosion on the iron elements installed in the 19th century. These factors significantly jeopardized the integrity of the monument, which led to the immediate need for conservation measures, as Archaeologie Online documents.

In June 2025, the wooden cover plate of the wooden coffin was lifted off so that teams of restorers and scientists could examine the bones more closely. The materials left behind, including some eggs, have symbolic meaning as they represent the resurrection of Christ. The different types of wood in the coffin, probably from the High Middle Ages, testify to the construction methods of the time.

Look into the past

The anthropological and bioarchaeological analyzes are expected to provide valuable information about the lifestyle, diseases and physical appearance of Emperor Otto the Great. Harald Meller, the state archaeologist, has already expressed his confidence that a facial reconstruction of the emperor should be possible. After the conservation work has been completed, it is also planned to transfer the bones to a new wooden coffin in order to adequately secure the severely damaged remains.

The great cultural and historical significance of the tomb extends far beyond the state borders of Saxony-Anhalt. Otto the Great remains a central figure in European history and his legacy is secured through ongoing conservation efforts. The public can look forward to the next steps in this exciting archaeological discovery.