Archeologists stumble upon a discovery underground in Germany: a structure measuring over 1000 square feet

A recent archaeological discovery has brought to light a large underground structure in the German federal state of North Rhine Westphalia. The find was made in the town of Lichtenau and has sparked significant interest among researchers, as it is a historic construction located beneath the old town.

The structure stands out both for its age and its size. According to a report released by the Westphalia-Lippe Regional Association on December 5, the underground building covers an area of more than 1000 square feet. The excavation took place in Lichtenau, a municipality within the district of Paderborn.

The discovery consists of a spacious vaulted cellar located beneath the urban core founded in 1321. The space was uncovered near a medieval castle situated along what is known as Lange Straße, a street that runs from west to east through the old town and has served as the city’s main thoroughfare since its beginnings.

A discovery with open questions

Project leaders note that this finding highlights the archaeological potential preserved beneath Lichtenau for the study of local architectural history. Knowledge of medieval homes and their evolution over the centuries is often based on partial remains and limited excavations, which makes discoveries like this one particularly significant.

The cellar still raises many unanswered questions. The exact date of the structure and the modifications it may have undergone over time have not yet been determined. Some elements show similarities to sixteenth century row houses in Paderborn, but the origin and function of the building remain under investigation, as does the identity of its former owners.

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