Long-Lost Medieval Convent Discovered in Denmark

Researchers have made an intriguing find in Denmark, unearthing a medieval convent beneath a soccer field in Roskilde. This discovery was revealed last month by ROMU, a recognized Danish museum organization.

The convent, known as St. Clare’s, was originally built in the 13th century. Uncovered through a ground-penetrating radar survey conducted before the construction of an underground parking facility, it lies about three feet underground.

The survey revealed a well-preserved convent complex, according to officials.

The scans showed the outlines of several structures, including rooms, columns, cloisters, and a southern-wing church. The eastern wing is particularly well-preserved, with defined rooms and vault pillars.

St. Clare’s was one of five monastic sites in medieval Roskilde. Unlike others, it lacked protection as an ancient monument due to beliefs of its loss over time.

Researchers are now planning trial excavations at the site. Archeologist Jesper Langkilde expressed surprise at the findings, noting how well-preserved the underground structures are.

The convent, once measuring 230 feet on each side, offers significant insights despite its demolition in the 16th century. Approximately 500,000 bricks were reportedly sold after its destruction, yet the base of the structure remains.

Langkilde explained that radar detected foundational walls made of large boulders, which often remained after such demolitions. Researchers anticipate finding numerous artifacts from medieval daily life, including pottery, animal bones, and religious objects.

The site may also yield information about literacy in the convent, given the presence of book fittings and writing materials.

Further discoveries could include burials, giving insights into the individuals who lived there. Initial nuns are thought to have originated from a convent in Strasbourg, indicating possible international connections.

Langkilde noted the discovery is crucial as it adds to the limited archaeological knowledge of Roskilde’s monasteries. He highlighted the significance of geophysical surveys in contributing to archaeological knowledge even without excavation.

The convents played a crucial role in Roskilde’s development as one of Denmark’s important medieval towns.