Celtic scissors, fibula, sword and other objects of pyrotechnics discovered in Munich

A burial site from the Celtic period was found during construction work in the Sendling district of Munich. Some of the graves had very high quality equipment, including 2300-year-old, well-preserved scissors whose blades are still sharp and, according to experts, "could still be used today..."

The grave was discovered by bomb disposal experts during a precautionary search for World War II explosive devices on a construction site. Archaeologists from the Bavarian State Heritage Office were immediately called to the site. Subsequent research revealed a tomb lying in the middle of a square structure made up of four wooden posts. The tomb dates from the 3rd or 2nd century BC, when the Celts burned their dead and buried the remains in pits with their grave goods. Archaeologists believe a man was buried in this grave.

In addition to the scissors, the grave also contained a deliberately damaged folded sword, the remains of a shield, a spearhead, a razor and a fibula. All of the objects are evidence of impressive craftsmanship. They testify to the high social status of the deceased. The scissors served as a multifunctional device. They could have been used to cut hair, textiles and sheep. The sword was ritually destroyed by heating and folding it so that it could not be used again to serve its owner in the afterlife.

"The scissors are more than 2,300 years old and are in such a state that they could be used today - it's a very special find indeed," explained Prof. Mathias Pfeil from the Bavarian State Heritage Office. "The fortunate fact that this instrument has been so well preserved is as impressive as its craftsmanship," Pfeil concluded.

Roman Nemec

Sources: t-online.de, sueddeutsche.de, thehistoryblog.com

2300-year-old scissors

a deliberately folded sword

razor