Archaeological excavations carried out by the State Office for the Preservation of Monuments (LAD) in the Stuttgart Regional Council between August and October 2024 near Altenburg, Germany, have revealed important discoveries at the late Celtic oppidum of Altenburg-Rheinau. This settlement, which flourished during the first century BC, was a major trade and craft center north of the Alps.

       Aerial photograph of the site where the Celtic settlement Altenburg-Rheinau once stood two millennia ago. Credit: LAD/Christoph Steffen

 The Altenburg-Rheinau Oppidum is located on two peninsulas: Swabia in Germany and Au in Switzerland, both of which are fortified by defensive walls. Excavations on the Swabian Peninsula, initiated by the University of Tübingen in the 1970s, provided initial evidence of settlement structures. Subsequent explorations by LAD in 2022 and 2023 uncovered further artefacts, including ceramics and coins.The 2024 excavations were concentrated near the Swabian Peninsula fortification wall. Project leader Dr. Günther Wieland, head of the Metal Age Department at the LAD, highlighted the discovery of large cylindrical pits up to 2.5 metres deep. "These pits, with separate layers of fill, were probably used for food storage," Wieland explained. Some pits had rectangular or oval bases and were perhaps accessed by steps or earthen ramps. Although evidence of above-ground residential structures remains rare, a square post structure discovered nearby is believed to have been a storage building.

                 One of the excavation sites from 2024: After removing the topsoil, large storage pits are visible as discolorations. Credit: LAD/Francois Ohl


The objects discovered in the Altenburg-Rheinau area underscore its importance as a center of trade and cultural exchange. Fragments of local coarse and fine pottery were discovered along with wine amphorae imported from Italy. "Mediterranean wine was a coveted luxury by the Celtic elite and the basis of a lucrative trade," said Wieland.

Late Celtic brooches (garment clasps) from the 1st century BC, made of bronze and iron. Credit: LAD/Yvonne Mühleis

Coins from the first century BC provide further evidence of a monetary economy that facilitated trade. The presence of highly decorated brooches, belt elements and other costume accessories made of bronze and iron provides insight into the daily life and crafts of the Celts.

One of the most intriguing discoveries came during the 2023 excavation: a bone stylus used to write on wax tablets. “This is rare evidence of the use of writing in the oppidum,” Wieland said. “Along with the monetary economy, this was an essential prerequisite for trade with the Mediterranean region.”

Writing implement made of bone. Credit: LAD/Yvonne Mühleis

The numerous well-preserved remains of animals, especially cattle, found at the site testify to organized animal husbandry and specialized meat production. These discoveries allow us to better understand the economic systems and population organization in the oppidum.

Palmette belt hook made of bronze from the 2023 excavation. Credit: LAD/Yvonne Mühleis

As research continues, plans are underway for further excavations in 2025.