Previously unknown Iron Age grave of high-ranking individual, two-wheel chariot found in Germany

An extraordinary Iron Age grave, believed to belong to a high-ranking individual, has been unearthed during excavations near Bad Camberg in Hesse, Germany. The discovery was made during preliminary investigations for a planned solar park, prompting a swift two-week excavation by archaeologists.

The grave yielded a wealth of artifacts, including golden jewelry, imported items such as an Etruscan spouted jug, and the remains of weapons. These findings strongly suggest the deceased held a position of considerable importance during their lifetime. "With the Early La Tène–period princely grave from Bad Camberg, we can now demonstrate the presence of a local Celtic elite that had previously only been assumed," stated Hesse State Archaeologist Prof. Dr. Udo Recker.

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With the Early La Tène–period princely grave from Bad Camberg, we can now demonstrate the presence of a local Celtic elite that had previously only been assumed.

Further analysis using X-ray and CT scans of excavated soil blocks revealed additional grave goods yet to be fully unearthed. Most notably, evidence of wheel hub, axle-cap, and iron tire fittings points to the burial of a two-wheeled wagon alongside the individual. This makes the discovery even rarer, as Celtic wagon burials in Hesse are exceptionally uncommon and none previously found match this site.

Researchers now believe the individual was likely a Celtic prince or warrior interred with their vehicle. The find is considered highly significant for Iron Age research in Hesse, offering potential new insights into social elites, craftsmanship, supra-regional contacts, and burial customs of the Late Iron Age. "This new evidence can expand that picture: it promises new insights into social elites, craftsmanship, supra-regional contacts, and burial customs in the Late Iron Age," explained Hessian State Secretary for Culture Christoph Degen.

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The find from Bad Camberg fits into Hesse’s rich Iron Age heritage. Sites such as the Glauberg have long demonstrated the outstanding role that present-day Hesse played in the Celtic cultural sphere. This new evidence can expand that picture: it promises new insights into social elites, craftsmanship, supra-regional contacts, and burial customs in the Late Iron Age.