🔎 Archaeological excavations unearth board games from the Middle Ages. How nobles entertained themselves centuries ago.
Archaeology: An exceptional set of board games discovered in Germany
Get ready to delve into the past! Imagine for a moment being able to go back in time and discover the secrets of the games that animated the noble courts almost 1,000 years ago. That’s exactly what an international team of researchers managed to do by unearthing a collection of medieval games in the Reutlingen region of southern Germany. Among these valuable finds is a rare and beautifully carved chess piece, alongside gaming tokens and dice.
So, how about embarking on a journey to explore this treasure from another era? You follow me ? Let’s go.
The unexpected discovery of a forgotten treasure
As part of an archaeological excavation carried out by a team of experts from the University of Tübingen, the State Office for Monument Preservation (LAD) Stuttgart and the German Archaeological Institute (DAI), the researchers have unearthed a set of games dating from the 11th centurye or XIIe century. Hidden beneath the rubble of a collapsed wall, these artifacts were likely lost or intentionally concealed during this tumultuous era.
An exceptional chess piece : The jewel of this collection is undoubtedly a chess piece representing a knight, carefully carved from antler. Measuring approximately 4 centimeters tall, its detailed mane and eyes demonstrate great craftsmanship. According to Dr. Jonathan Scheschkewitz of the LAD, this play marks a peak in the art of medieval play.
Other discoveries : Next to this knight, researchers also found four flower-shaped game tokens and a six-sided die. The whole forms a fascinating picture of medieval play culture, revealing the pastimes popular with the European nobility of the time.
Also read : Archeology: Castro CurbÃn, at the origins of the game
The colors and symbols of the medieval nobility
Laboratory analyzes revealed traces of red paint on these objects, suggesting that one of the sides in the chess games used pieces colored red. This discovery reminds us that chess was not just a simple game, but a symbol of the skills a knight had to master. In the press release, Dr. Scheschkewitz emphasizes:
“In the Middle Ages, chess was one of the seven skills a good knight had to master. The discovery of an entire collection of games from the 11th/12th century completely surprised us, and the horse figure is a real highlight. »
Chess: A game with deep roots
Originating in the Orient, the game of chess crossed continents and centuries to establish itself in Europe more than 1,000 years ago. The piece discovered in Reutlingen sheds new light on the earliest forms of the game and its role in medieval society.
The continuity of the rules : The signs of wear on the knight’s piece suggest that the traditional movement of the knight was already established in the 11th or 12th century. The researchers, looking more closely under the microscope, discovered the typical patina of regularly handled pieces, reflecting frequent use.
Rules that persist : This discovery highlights a remarkable continuity in the rules of the game of chess over the centuries. Modern players would easily find the same movements and strategies as their medieval ancestors. This shows how chess tradition has remained intact despite social and cultural changes.
An overview of medieval play culture
Beyond chess, these discoveries offer a rare insight into the playful culture of the Middle Ages. Games were more than just entertainment; they reflected the values ​​and hierarchies of society.
Dice games : Dice found at the site show that games of chance were also popular. Perhaps soldiers or knights bet on the outcome of rolls to pass the time between campaigns.
Game tokens : The flower-shaped tokens add a poetic touch to this collection. Their exact use remains a mystery, but they could have been used in board games or betting. These objects reveal an often neglected facet of medieval life, where play occupied an important place.
Chemical analyzes and public exposure
Archeology researchers, led by Dr. Flavia Venditti from the University of Tübingen, are currently conducting chemical analyzes to learn more about the pigments used in these pieces. The results of these studies could reveal more about the origin and uses of these objects, further enriching our understanding of medieval board games.
An exhibition not to be missed : If you are as curious and curious as I am, you will be delighted to know that this collection will be on public display for the first time in June 2024. Not only will you be able to admire the chess piece and other artifacts up close, but You will also have the opportunity to learn about the history of medieval European games.
What this discovery means for gaming enthusiasts
For us, board game fans, this discovery is a real gold mine. It reminds us how games have always been an integral part of human culture. Whether you are an avid chess player or a lover of dice games, it is fascinating to realize that our ancestors already shared this passion almost a thousand years ago. With less illustrations…
The chivalrous spirit of chess : In medieval times, chess was more than just entertainment; they represented a microcosm of the chivalric world. Pieces like the king, queen, knight and bishop symbolized the different strata of society. The strategy and tactics required echoed the skills needed on the battlefield. This discovery reinforces the idea that chess was a tool for training and reflection for nobles.
Dice and chance : Dice, on the other hand, embody uncertainty and luck, elements that have always fascinated players. The medieval dice found are a reminder that chance was also an integral part of the games of the time. You can almost imagine the knights betting on a toss, their laughter echoing through the castle walls.
Also read : Archaeology: A 1,700-year-old board game found in a Norwegian burial mound.
Innovative perspectives for research
This discovery opens new perspectives for research into historical board games. Here are some avenues that could be explored:
1. Study materials and manufacturing techniques
The pieces are so well preserved that researchers can analyze the materials used, the sculpting techniques and the pigments used. This could reveal the trading networks and cultural influences of the time. For example, understanding where antlers or red pigments come from could provide valuable information about medieval trade.
2. Compare with other medieval collections
By comparing these discoveries in archaeology, or archaeoludology, if I may use the neologism, with other medieval collections, researchers could better understand regional variations in games and identify common trends. For example, the famous Lewis chess pieces, discovered in Scotland, provide an interesting point of comparison for exploring similarities and differences in artistic styles and rules of play.
3. Explore the evolution of rules
The signs of wear on the knight’s coin suggest specific movements. A thorough study of these marks could help reconstruct the precise rules of medieval chess. Additionally, by comparing these pieces to available historical writings, researchers could identify variations in movements and strategies used over the centuries.
4. Understand the social role of games
Medieval games were not just for entertainment, they also had a social and educational role. Chess, for example, was often used to teach military strategy to young nobles. Dice and tokens could also be used for betting, reflecting a society where chance and luck were part of everyday life.
The timeless appeal of board games
What makes this archeology discovery so exciting is that it reveals the longevity and universality of our love for games. For centuries, we have played to entertain, challenge, and connect with each other.
A bridge between eras : Chess, in particular, provides a direct link between us and our medieval ancestors. Even after a millennium, the fundamental rules remain largely unchanged, and the fun of the game remains as strong as ever.
The evolution of games : However, games have also evolved. Today, modern games like Catan, Carcassonne Or Rail Adventurers offer varied mechanics and themes that appeal to a wide audience. But deep down, the spirit remains the same: strategy, chance, challenge and, of course, fun.
Conclusion: A window into the playful past
This discovery of medieval board games in Germany offers us a fascinating window into the past. She demonstrates that even in a time when entertainment was limited, the human spirit still found ways to play, create, and connect through games.
So the next time you play a game of chess or roll a dice, remember that you are participating in an age-old tradition. Medieval chess pieces and dice discovered beneath the rubble of a ruined castle remind us that the game transcends eras and cultures, uniting players in a common quest for fun and challenge.
And you, what medieval game would you dream of playing?
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