Investigations underway

Skeletons near the parish church over 200 years old

Bones well over 200 years old and medieval building structures at the parish church of St. Magdalena in Völkermarkt (13th century).(Bild: Stadtgemeinde Völkermarkt )

Bones have been discovered during excavation work on the square between the Mesnerhaus and the parish church of St. Magdalena in Völkermarkt (Carinthia). The remains of medieval buildings are probably among the finds. The skeletons are over 200 years old.

A cemetery, which was apparently abandoned in 1786, makes its way up to the forecourt of the 13th century parish church of St. Magdalena. "We were aware of this. What is surprising, however, is that the bones are so high up," says parish priest Zoltan Papp. Skeletons were discovered during excavation work for the renovation of the church forecourt.

The Federal Office for the Protection of Monuments (BDMA) has been informed, says Armin Alic, head of the building authority: "We are excited to see what the investigations will reveal." The BDMA archaeologist responsible, Astrid Steinegger: "We don't know much. But the bones take us back to the 18th century." Remains of walls that were discovered could even date back to the Middle Ages: "We know that there used to be a charnel house there."

The skeletons near the graves are well over 200 years old.(Bild: Stadtgemeinde Völkermarkt )

Some of the walls are very well preserved. "The remains of the walls lead directly to the church," says archaeologist Regina Barlovits. Incidentally, the finds were discovered at a depth of half a meter. "We are waiting for the experts' results. We are keen to find out more about the history," says Deputy Mayor Peter Wedenig. The archaeological service remains on site