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Researchers Open Otto the Great’s Coffin, Uncover Likely Imperial Remains

Forensic studies are underway to confirm the remains’ identity, offering insight into medieval burial practices.

Overview

  • The wooden coffin inside Otto the Great’s stone sarcophagus was opened in June 2025, revealing a male skeleton estimated at around 60 years old.
  • The bones show a stature of about 1.78 meters—roughly ten centimeters above the medieval average—and exhibit signs of arthritis and dental disease consistent with a life of riding.
  • Researchers also uncovered textile fragments, plant residues and eggshells, reflecting typical Christian burial practices symbolizing resurrection.
  • Radiocarbon dating indicates the pine-wood coffin dates to the High Middle Ages, likely made when Otto’s remains were relocated after the 1207 cathedral fire.
  • Comprehensive anthropological and bioarchaeological tests will verify the remains’ identity and explore his health, appearance and cause of death before a planned reburial in late summer 2026.