Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Credit: ©LAKD MV
A homeowner in Klotzow, Germany, uncovered a rare 12th-century "picture stone" while doing construction work. The stone features a detailed carving, believed to depict a significant historical figure, possibly Otto of Bamberg, a bishop who helped spread Christianity in the region.
Credit: Christian Moeller / Ministry of Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Only about 20 such "bildstein" (picture stones) have been discovered along the Baltic coast of Germany and Poland. These medieval artifacts typically show human figures with distinguishing features, such as clothing, and often reflect local history.
Archaeologists suggest the carving may represent Otto of Bamberg (1060–1139), a missionary bishop who played a key role in converting the population of Pomerania, a region that is now part of modern-day Germany and Poland. Otto was known for his diplomatic efforts and religious influence in the area.
The stone shows a figure wearing a cap, shawl, robe, and possibly shoes, holding what looks like a banner. A notable detail is a cross carved on the loose end of the shawl, which could indicate the person depicted was a high-ranking religious figure, possibly wearing a pallium, a special garment worn by archbishops and bishops.
Written records indicate that Otto received a pallium from Pope Paschal II in 1111. This, combined with his missionary journeys through Pomerania in the 1120s, makes it plausible that the carved figure is Otto, as he would have been the only known bearer of a pallium in the region at that time.
The exact role of these stones remains unclear. They may have served as memorials or tombstones, commemorating important individuals from the past. The presence of a cross on this particular stone suggests its significance in marking religious history.
After further analysis, the stone is expected to be permanently displayed in the village of Klotzow, where it was found. The discovery adds valuable insight into the Christianization of the region and medieval religious art.