1,700-year-old 'barbarian' burial discovered along Roman Empire's frontier in Germany

Archaeologists in Germany have uncovered a burial site dating back 1,700 years, believed to belong to a man from the Alemanni tribe, a group of Germanic peoples. The burial, which dates to the first half of the fourth century, was found in a prominent location and features an elaborate wooden chamber. The deceased, who lived to around 60 years of age, was interred with valuable grave goods, including high-quality glassware and pottery, indicating a significant status within his community. The grave goods suggest a blend of cultural influences, with some artifacts likely sourced from the nearby Roman fort at Guntia, while others appear to originate from the Elbe-Saale region. This reflects the interactions between the Roman Empire and the Germanic tribes, as the Romans referred to these tribes as "barbarians," a term that denoted non-Roman peoples living beyond their borders. The discovery is particularly noteworthy as Alemanni graves from this period are rare in the area, typically found in clusters rather than as solitary burials. Archaeologists speculate that additional graves may be located nearby, which could provide further insights into the burial practices and social structures of the Alemanni. The artifacts have been transported to a restoration workshop for preservation, while the human remains remain at the site for documentation. Radiocarbon dating of one rib has confirmed the burial occurred between A.D. 263 and 342, contributing to the understanding of the region's history during the late Roman Empire.