12th-century stone carving found in Germany depicts early bishop

In August, a homeowner named Peter Wittenberg discovered a rare 12th-century stone carving while excavating soil for home construction in Klotzow, Germany. The boulder, measuring approximately 3 feet long, features a carving that may represent Otto of Bamberg, a bishop known for his missionary work in Pomerania. This region is now part of modern-day Germany and Poland, and Otto played a significant role in introducing Christianity there around 800 years ago. The stone, classified as a 'picture stone' or 'bildstein,' is one of only about 20 known in the area, making it a remarkable archaeological find. Detlef Jantzen, the chief archaeologist of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, noted that the carving depicts a figure dressed in a cap, shawl, and robe, holding what appears to be a banner. A distinctive feature of this stone is the carved cross at the end of the shawl, which is unique among picture stones. Jantzen highlighted that the details of the carving suggest it could represent Otto, particularly due to the pallium, a religious garment associated with high-ranking clergy, which Otto received from Pope Paschalis II in 1111. Historical records indicate that Otto traveled through Pomerania in the 1120s, likely passing through Klotzow, further supporting the theory that the carving depicts him. The purpose of these picture stones remains uncertain, but they may have served as memorials or tombstones. Once the analysis of the stone is complete, plans are in place to display it permanently in the village where it was found, allowing the local community to appreciate this significant piece of history.