Recent archaeological investigations conducted at the site of the Mallerbach Chapel, situated near Allstedt in the German federal state of Saxony-Anhalt, have yielded remarkable results. These extensive excavations, which have now concluded, brought to light approximately 1000 medieval artifacts and more than 50 human burials, spanning a significant historical period from the 12th century through the early 16th century. This important fieldwork was carried out as part of the commemorative year dedicated to "Justice. Thomas Müntzer and 500 years of the Peasants' War."
Among the substantial collection of recovered items were about 25 silver coins dating from the 15th to the early 16th centuries. The finds also included numerous objects reflecting daily life and military activity, such as belt buckles, knives, horseshoes, crossbow bolts, and various arrowheads. Furthermore, researchers unearthed a wealth of ceramic shards, notably 12th-century Pingsdorf pottery, alongside several lead bullets. These diverse discoveries offer valuable insights into the armaments and everyday existence of the local population during the Middle Ages.
Archaeologists successfully uncovered a large medieval cemetery containing upwards of 50 individual graves. A particularly striking feature of this burial ground was the concentration of approximately 25 child graves, primarily located in the eastern sector of the chapel area. These interments consisted of newborns and infants, suggesting the community placed a high priority on the care and ritualistic burial of its youngest members.
The findings confirm that the Mallerbach Chapel served multiple functions beyond being a simple place of worship; it was also a significant pilgrimage destination for both local residents and traveling devotees. In addition to the infant burials, the cemetery contained graves belonging to adult inhabitants, establishing the site as a fully functioning medieval burial ground attached to the chapel.
In certain graves, believed to belong to a prominent or noble family, excavators discovered a small pot crafted from yellow clay adorned with red painting. This specific item was identified as 12th-century Pingsdorf pottery, which originated from manufacturing centers located on the eastern periphery of the Rhineland. The presence of such geographically distinct and high-quality ceramics underscores the social stratification present in the community.
Felix Biermann, the project manager from the State Office for Monument Preservation and Archaeology, emphasized the significance of the findings. He stated: “These discoveries provide a new perspective on the history of the chapel and the life of the local community during the Middle Ages. The child burials and the Pingsdorf ceramics are especially important—they allow us to trace the traditions and social customs of that era.”
The Mallerbach Chapel itself, initially constructed in the 12th century, underwent multiple renovations over time, serving sequentially as a village church, a roadside sanctuary, and a pilgrimage site. Its historical importance is cemented by the event of March 24, 1524, when residents of Allstedt looted and subsequently burned the structure. This act is historically recognized as one of the earliest manifestations of peasant unrest in Central Germany.
Further archaeological investigation revealed the remnants of the village of Mallerbach, which ceased to exist after the 14th century. These structural findings included the cellar of a watchman's house and tangible evidence of a medieval fair. These elements collectively deepen our understanding of the customs and daily routines of the local populace during the medieval period, highlighting the central role the chapel played in both communal and religious life.