Rare saint figures discovered during excavations at Molkenmarkt

The figure of St. Catherine was recovered almost intact.

According to the State Monuments Office, these finds are a rarity: a few days ago, centuries-old saint figures were discovered during archaeological investigations at Molkenmarkt.

One of the highlights is an eleven-centimeter-high statuette of Saint Catherine made of white clay, according to the authorities. The figure from the 15th century was recovered almost intact.

Insights into the late Middle Ages

Saint Catherine was extremely popular in the late Middle Ages as an emergency helper and patron saint. Another find is a seven-centimetre-high Madonna with the infant Jesus, also from the 15th century. Unfortunately, the figure is missing its head. Both statuettes offer a special insight into the bourgeois piety of the late Middle Ages, explained Sebastian Heber, Head of the Department for the Preservation of Monuments at the Berlin State Monuments Office.

Numerous figures from the 14th century

The excavation team from the State Monuments Office also discovered a depot of medieval holy figures. Parts of a total of 188 female figures dating from the middle of the 14th century were recovered, according to the statement. The reconstructable height of the individual statuettes is generally eight centimetres.

Around 600,000 finds recovered so far

Since excavations began five years ago, archaeologists have recovered around 600,000 finds at Molkenmarkt behind the Rotes Rathaus in the heart of Berlin. They are set to continue their work there until the end of 2025, searching for traces of Berlin's history. In August, the discovery of a Japanese short sword from the 17th century was announced.