Frienstedt: Runic Find and Craft Settlement

Frienstedt, a district of the city of Erfurt, brings together archaeological traces and the Frienstedt Cross. An archaeological site from the Late Roman Imperial period includes a craft settlement where non-ferrous and precious metals were worked. Also found there was a comb dating to around 300 AD, bearing a runic inscription considered the oldest known Germanic writing in Central Germany. Here, questions about craftsmanship and early writing meet a distinctive subject in visual art.

Archaeological Traces and the Frienstedt Cross

The site reveals a craft settlement where the working of non-ferrous and precious metals has been documented. About half of the site was excavated between 2001 and 2003. These excavations give the place a specific role in the archaeology of the Late Roman Imperial period: its history includes not only the settlement itself, but also the documented metalworking. For visitors with an interest in the subject, this offers a distinct focus for planning a trip—the settlement’s material traces and the questions they raise about work at the time.

During the analysis of the excavation of a Germanic settlement near Frienstedt, a runic inscription was discovered on a comb dating to around 300 AD. It is considered the oldest known Germanic writing in Central Germany. The find connects the place with the history of early writing, while the settlement also offers insights into craftsmanship. The Frienstedt Cross adds a different emphasis: it is distinguished by harmonious proportions and unusually elaborate iconography. Archaeological finds and the design of a cross thus offer different ways of exploring Frienstedt’s history.

Culture and Experiences in the Erfurt Destination

The wider Erfurt destination offers a cultural spectrum ranging from medieval Jewish heritage to sacred architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jewish-Medieval Heritage in Erfurt is located in the heart of Erfurt’s Old Town and comprises the Old Synagogue, the mikveh and the Stone House. These rare and exceptionally well-preserved examples of Jewish buildings in Central Europe give the subject a distinct focus. The Old Synagogue presents evidence of Erfurt’s medieval Jewish culture.

Erfurt Cathedral (St. Mary’s Cathedral) and St. Severus Church also offer different architectural details. The cathedral has a High Gothic choir, a Romanesque tower section and a Late Gothic west hall. Its central tower houses the Gloriosa, the world’s largest medieval free-swinging bell. A 70-step outdoor staircase leads from Cathedral Square up to Cathedral Hill, where both churches stand. St. Severus Church is a five-aisled Gothic hall church and, from the 12th century onward, served as the collegiate church of a community of canons. It houses the Severi sarcophagus from 1365, whose side panels depict the life of the saint, a stone Madonna from 1345 and a 15-metre-high baptismal font from 1467, as well as other works of art.

Another of Erfurt’s landmarks is the Krämerbrücke, Europe’s longest bridge continuously lined with houses and inhabited. A tasting is offered at Goldhelm right on the bridge. Petersberg offers another perspective on the city’s history: Petersberg Citadel is one of the largest and the only largely preserved Baroque city fortress in Central Europe. Its elevated location offers several viewpoints with expansive views across the city; sunsets can be seen from Michael Bastion to the west.

Gardens, Animals and Trip Planning

egapark Erfurt includes the Danakil Desert and Jungle House, themed gardens, the Knowledge Forest and the German Horticultural Museum. Its ornamental flowerbed, covering 6,000 m², is the largest in Europe. The 35,000 m² playground is another clear draw for families: it is the largest in Thuringia. The grounds of Thuringian Zoo Park Erfurt cover around 63 hectares and are home to more than 1,000 animals from around the world. Some enclosures can be entered; the zoo also takes part in breeding programmes for endangered species. Gardens, playgrounds and the zoo offer different themes from the archaeological finds and buildings.

Erfurt Central Station is an important hub on Deutsche Bahn’s ICE network. It connects long-distance and regional rail services with the city’s public transport. Use these varied interests as a guide when choosing where to stay. Before visiting, check current access arrangements for the Old Synagogue and whether tastings are available at Goldhelm.

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

Go to the main travel overview: Erfurt.