German construction workers accidentally discovered an ancient road buried underground while installing a gas pipeline.
The 800-year-old wooden road buried underground in Berlin. (Video: AFP)
At a construction site in the heart of Berlin, archaeologists unearthed approximately 50 meters of a wooden road dating back to the 13th century. This structure lies 2.5 meters below the surface, hidden beneath what is now Stralauer Street, and has been remarkably preserved, likely due to its proximity to the Spree River.
“This is the oldest street in Berlin, existing 800 years ago. Being built by the river, it is situated in a very humid environment, and thanks to the water, the wood has been protected from oxygen,” explained Michael Malliaris, the excavation team leader.
On the morning of February 3, dozens of archaeologists and volunteers used shovels and trowels to search for traces of wheels or footprints of people and animals. However, nothing was left on the wooden part of the road, “possibly because it was quickly covered by water.”
The newly excavated road leading to an ancient market in Berlin in the 13th century.
Made from sections of oak, pine, and birch, the newly unearthed road leads to an ancient market in 13th-century Berlin. Today, this site has become a vital traffic artery of the city.
Despite its historical significance, authorities stated that construction work must continue, and the road will be replaced by gas and electrical pipelines. Much of it will be destroyed to make way for new developments.
“We want to preserve a small part of it and display it in a museum so that everyone can remember the history of this place,” Malliaris added.
