Frienstedt: Runic Find, Craftsmanship and Culture

A comb dating to around 300 AD makes Frienstedt a remarkable place for anyone interested in early history: a runic inscription was discovered on it during the analysis of an excavation at a Germanic settlement. It is considered the oldest known Germanic writing in central Germany. The settlement itself also tells a story of craftsmanship and work.

Archaeological traces from Frienstedt

The archaeological site dates to the Late Roman Imperial period and includes a craftspeople’s settlement. Evidence of the processing of non-ferrous and precious metals has been found there. About half of the site was excavated between 2001 and 2003. Together, these details give Frienstedt a clear historical profile: alongside the exceptional writing find is a settlement where metalworking played a role.

The runic comb connects the history of the place with a tangible object and a significant linguistic context. Its dating to around 300 AD provides a point of reference; the inscription also makes it a remarkable example of early writing. Visitors interested in history can therefore find both a glimpse into life in a settlement and an unusual linguistic discovery here.

The Frienstedt Cross is another cultural highlight. It is distinguished by harmonious proportions and an unusually elaborate iconographic design. This adds an artistic perspective to the archaeological one, drawing attention to form and visual language.

Erfurt: Medieval Heritage and Urban Culture

The broader Erfurt travel destination offers a different focus: the UNESCO World Heritage Site Jewish-Medieval Heritage in Erfurt lies in the heart of the Old Town and comprises the Old Synagogue, the mikveh and the Stone House. These buildings are rare and exceptionally well-preserved examples of Jewish architecture in Central Europe. The Old Synagogue presents evidence of Erfurt’s medieval Jewish culture. If you are planning a visit, check the current access conditions.

Erfurt Cathedral of St. Mary can also be viewed from a range of architectural perspectives: its choir is High Gothic, the tower area Romanesque and the western hall Late Gothic. The central tower houses the Gloriosa, the world’s largest free-swinging medieval bell. St. Severus’ Church combines the form of a five-aisled Gothic hall church with a long ecclesiastical history: from the 12th century, it served as the collegiate church of a community of canons. Its works of art include a Severus sarcophagus from 1365 depicting the saint’s life, a stone Madonna from 1345 and a 15-metre-high baptismal font from 1467.

The Krämerbrücke offers another perspective on the city’s heritage. One of Erfurt’s landmarks, it is Europe’s longest continuously built-up and inhabited bridge. A tasting is offered at Goldhelm, right on the bridge; check the current offer details before your visit. For a change of pace between architecture and gardens, the broader Erfurt travel destination also includes egapark, with its themed gardens, Danakil Desert and Jungle House, Forest of Knowledge and German Horticultural Museum. The ornamental flowerbed covers 6,000 m²; at 35,000 m², the playground is the largest in Thuringia.

Erfurt Central Station is also useful for getting around the city: it is an important hub on Deutsche Bahn’s ICE network and connects long-distance and regional rail services with the city’s public transport. Check timetables and connections to suit your specific plans.

Choose the right focus for your accommodation search

When looking for a holiday apartment, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your stay. If Frienstedt’s settlement history, metalworking and runic find are your priorities, focus your search on Frienstedt. If you would rather plan around the architecture, the Krämerbrücke, the gardens or the transport hub, Erfurt is a distinct search area.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Kühnhausen, Molsdorf, Kerspleben, Erfurt, Tiefthal, Niedernissa.

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