In Berlin, a highly decorated Japanese sword from the Edo period has been unearthed.

Archaeologists from the Berlin State Office for the Preservation of Monuments have uncovered a remarkable relic during excavations of World War II ruins at the site of the oldest city market—Molkenmarkt Square.

The excavations began in 2022. Since then, German researchers have discovered around 300,000 artifacts in this ancient trading district. This has allowed archaeologists to partially uncover what lies beneath the former cellars of residential and commercial buildings at Molkenmarkt, which were reduced to rubble during World War II. In the 1960s, these areas were covered with sidewalks, as reported by Live Science.

According to the team’s statement, the cellars were filled with military artifacts, including bridles, stirrups, and harnesses. However, the discovery of a rare piece of Japanese cold weaponry took the researchers by surprise. Experts believe it to be a samurai sword known as a wakizashi, dating back to the 17th century.

What is this sword and how did it end up in the center of Berlin?

Initially, archaeologists speculated that this heavily corroded short sword was a military parade saber from the 20th century. But further analysis revealed that the artifact originated from Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). Staff at the Museum of Prehistory and Early History suggested that the blade could be even older, possibly dating back to the 16th century. Archaeologists believe the sword may have been brought to Germany in the 1800s as part of a diplomatic mission.

“Who could have imagined that during a time when Japan was isolated and very few European travelers visited the country, such an ornately decorated weapon would end up here in Berlin?” said Matthias Wemhoff, the museum director and state archaeologist of Berlin.

What else is known about the find?

Restoration work has shown that this artifact was one of those swords that once belonged to high-status individuals. Mr. Wemhoff explained that samurai carried the wakizashi as a backup weapon in case they needed to fight in a confined space or in close proximity to an opponent, where it would be difficult to draw a longer sword—the katana. The wakizashi is also known as the “companion sword.”

The wooden handle was significantly damaged by fire. However, some fragments of wood and textile wrappings of the sword surprisingly survived. Additionally, restorers discovered an image of Daikoku (or Daikokuten) near the metal ring that separates the handle from the blade. Daikoku is the god of prosperity and wealth, one of the seven Japanese gods of fortune, recognized by his hammer and bag of rice.

Related posts

Perhaps the king lost it? A beautiful amethyst set in silver was found near the castle in Poland.

Roman traces in Turkey: an elite villa with frescoes and a pool has been excavated in Tripoli.

A craftsman’s masterpiece: an ancient arrowhead made of white quartzite has been discovered in Sweden.