On a hill overlooking Zurich lies the Fürstengrabhügel Sonnenbühl. This is no ordinary hill. It’s a Celtic prince’s tomb from the 5th century BC. Imagine that, a burial mound from over 2,500 years ago, right here in Zurich!
The Fürstengrabhügel Sonnenbühl stands as a testament to the rich history of this region. The tomb itself was tragically plundered shortly after the burial. This act likely even involved the desecration of the deceased. Despite this, archaeologists uncovered fascinating remnants during the excavation in 1979.
South of the main chamber, they found a pile of burned human bones. These bones, primarily from a femur head, were identified as belonging to a woman. This discovery hints at a story shrouded in mystery. Who was this woman, and what was her relationship to the prince buried here?
Despite the looting, the archaeologists unearthed captivating artifacts. A bronze chain with rod links, a fragment of a small Certosa fibula, and a golden rosette were found. Additionally, two meters west of the tomb, they discovered two exquisitely crafted gold disc fibulae. These fibulae, now on display at the Swiss National Museum in Zurich, provide a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of the time.
The Fürstengrabhügel Sonnenbühl serves as a reminder of the fascinating history that lies beneath our feet, offering a captivating glimpse into the lives and rituals of the Celts who once inhabited this area.