Medieval Pilgrim Medallions Unearthed by Metal Detectorist in Switzerland

A Major Discovery in Switzerland

According to НВ — Техно: After years of scanning local fields with a metal detector, a man in Switzerland has uncovered a significant collection of religious medallions once owned by ordinary people during the early modern period. These artifacts shed light on personal devotion, pilgrimage routes, and the practices people used to protect themselves from illness and harsh weather. The discoveries were made while the man worked under the guidance of the Cantonal Archaeological Service.

Details of the Medallions

According to reports, the medallions are made from common metals and show signs of wear. Dating to the early modern era, they feature depictions of saints, including:

• Saint Rita
• Saint Anastasius the Persian
• Saint Anthony

Some of the artifacts originated from Einsiedeln Abbey in Switzerland. Others point to journeys to Rome, illustrated by images of the four Holy Doors, as well as to shrines in southern Germany and the French site of Lourdes.

Research has revealed that certain Saint Benedict medals were deliberately buried near streams, cradles, or in field furrows. The primary purpose of this burial was to safeguard crops, children, and livestock from storms and disease. These finds not only expand our understanding of historical religious practices but also help reveal how people of that era interacted with their faith and environment.

This event represents a valuable contribution to regional history, highlighting the role of personal piety in the lives of early modern commoners. The medallions may serve as a foundation for further studies, shedding light on the religious beliefs and social customs of the population at the time, while underscoring the importance of cultural heritage in today's world.

This remarkable discovery in Switzerland echoes similar archaeological finds, such as the recent excavation in Sweden where hundreds of glass beads were unearthed from 7th–8th century graves. Both cases highlight the significance of personal artifacts in understanding the cultural and spiritual lives of past societies, offering invaluable insights into their daily practices and beliefs.