Archaeologists have unearthed a colossal Bronze Age building, near the royal grave at Seddin in Brandenburg, Germany.

The outline of the ancient building discovered in Seddin, Germany. Credit: Prignitz district

The structure is believed to be the legendary meeting hall of King Hinz, a ruler ᴀssociated with local folklore and purportedly buried in a golden coffin.

The hall, measuring an impressive 31 by 10 meters (102 by 33 feet), stands as the largest building of its kind from the Nordic Bronze Age, spanning approximately 2200 to 800 BCE.

This architectural marvel was discovered during excavations led by archaeologist Immo Heske from the Georg-August University of Göttingen and his team. The Brandenburg State Office for Monument Preservation has confirmed the significance of this structure, emphasizing its rarity and the possibility that it served as a palatial residence or a meeting place for royalty.

The fireplace in the King’s Hall. Credit: Prignitz district

The construction of the hall, with walls made of wooden planks, wattle and daub, and clay plaster, along with a thatched roof, showcases the advanced craftsmanship of the time. A central fireplace and a miniature vessel, likely used for ritualistic purposes, were uncovered inside the hall.

Franz Schopper, the state archaeologist, expressed his excitement about the find, calling it a “spectacular discovery.” The dimensions of the hall, which exceeds the typical size of buildings from that era, have led experts to speculate that it may have been a ruler’s seat. Immo Heske dates the building to the 10th and 9th centuries BCE.

The discovery is closely linked to the “King’s Grave,” a burial mound near Seddin, considered the most important burial site of the 9th century BCE in northern Central Europe. The legend surrounding King Hinz, known for his benevolence and popularity among his people, ties him to this region.

According to historical accounts, when King Hinz pᴀssed away, a magnificent tomb was constructed, including three coffins—one for his wife, one for a royal servant, and a grand golden coffin for the king himself. The mᴀssive burial mound was erected to protect this revered grave.

Archaeologists, collaborating with the Brandenburg State Office for Monument Preservation and the Georg-August University of Göttingen, have been conducting extensive excavations around the royal grave since the spring of 2023.

The German Research Foundation (DFG) has shown keen interest in the site, providing a grant of 300,000 euros over three years to fund ongoing research. This financial support underscores the importance of unraveling the mysteries surrounding King Hinz and the Bronze Age societies in this part of Northern Central Europe.

As the excavation site is secured and documented, researchers plan to continue their work over the next two years. The hope is to employ new technologies, including DNA tests, to delve deeper into the history of the people ᴀssociated with the royal tomb of Seddin.