Hochdorf Celtic Burial Mound
N 48° 53.330 E 009° 00.578
32U E 500706 N 5415098
Reconstructed Celtic burial mound on the site of important excavations.
Waymark Code: WMZM0
Location: Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Date Posted: 11/25/2006
Views: 162
In 1978, an ancient burial mound of a Celtic prince dating back to around 550 BC was discovered here outside the village of Hochdorf in southwest Germany. The mound had worn down to the level of the ground around it. The site was being threatened by destruction by farming activities so it was excavated.
The burial mound was found to contain two wooden burial chambers, one situated inside the other. In the inner chamber was found the remains of the prince and a number of burial gifts. Among these, an elaborately decorated bronze couch, upon which the deceased was placed, a four wheeled chariot, a drinking and banqueting service. The deceased's body was adorned in rich gold jewellery.
A reconstruction of the chamber can be seen in the nearby museum (some of the original pieces can be found in the Altes Schloß in Stuttgart).
This find was noted for being one of the few undisturbed royal burials of the Early Celtic Period. The excellent state of preservation allowed the first detailed insights into the world of the Celtic princes to be gathered. For example, the Hochdorf prince's appearance could be reconstructed as well as certain aspects of his way of life.
In order to give this site the appearance it had back at the time of the burial, the mound was reconstructed. You can climb to the top of the mound but there is no chamber to visit here.
Admission Fee (local currency): Free
Opening days/times:
24/7
Web Site: [Web Link]
Condition: Partially Reconstructed
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Visit Instructions:
No special requirements.