Viking Graves at "Altes Lager" in Menzlin

Viking Graves at “Altes Lager” in Menzlin – A Unique Archaeological Site on the Baltic Sea

South of Menzlin near Anklam in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania lie the remarkable Viking graves of the “Altes Lager.” Archaeological investigations have revealed a Viking-era maritime trading center here that was once closely linked to a Slavic settlement area. The site demonstrates that the Vikings went down in history not only as warriors, but also as skilled traders, capable seafarers, and outstanding craftsmen and boatbuilders who left their mark on the entire Baltic Sea coast.

Scandinavian women’s graves in the shape of ships and circles—unique along the southern Baltic Sea coast

The graves of Scandinavian origin discovered in Menzlin, shaped symbolically like ships and circles, are so far unique along the southern Baltic Sea coast—from Rügen to Usedom and on to the coast near Greifswald and Stralsund. Extensive anthropological investigations revealed that these are Scandinavian women’s graves, richly furnished with grave goods. These include Slavic pottery vessels as well as Scandinavian traditional jewelry—a fascinating testament to cultural exchange.

Peaceful Coexistence of Vikings and Slavs in Menzlin

The form and grave goods of the burial sites suggest that Vikings and Slavs lived together peacefully in the Slavic settlement areas around Menzlin and were buried together. This finding makes the historical site a significant testament to the early medieval coexistence of different cultures on the German Baltic Sea coast and a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.