Building research - Experiment: Researchers puzzle with ancient roof tiles
In a large puzzle experiment with broken, medieval tiles, researchers want to discover more about their shape and usage. Recently, archaeologists from the Landschaftsverband Westfalen-Lippe (LWL) discovered large piles of historical tile fragments in the roof structure of a church in Borgholzhausen, East Westphalia - according to reports, the largest medieval tile find in Westphalia. Moreover, this form is exceptional, as it has only been found one other time in Germany.
To find out exactly how these tiles looked and in what form they were used on the church roof, the find is now to be sorted and assembled in the courtyard of the LWL building in Münster. Through this experimental procedure, the researchers hope to be able to reconstruct the appearance of this previously unknown type of roofing. Additionally, the puzzle experiment could provide insights into why the tile roofing may have been replaced with a slate roof in the Middle Ages.
During their work, the researchers will give a preview to media representatives on Tuesday (11.30 am).
- The researchers, aiming to delve deeper into the history of these unique tiles, plan to conduct their study at the LWL building in Munster, North Rhine-Westphalia.
- This historical tile find in East Westphalia, Germany, which includes fragments from a large pile of medieval roof tiles, is being carefully built into a puzzle in the LWL's courtyard as part of the research.
- As a part of this research project, the Landscape Association Westfalen-Lippe encourages the public to visit the courtyard in Munster, to witness the reconstruction of these historical monuments and the intricate landscape of the broken roof tiles.
- The unusual form of these medieval tiles, only discovered twice in Germany's history, contributes to the rich architectural and historical heritage of Westphalia and represents an important piece of Germany's architectural puzzle.
- The roof tiles, with their distinctive patterns and timeworn beauty, serve as a reminder of the historical significance of architectural craftsmanship and the art of roofing in Germany, evoking a sense of wonder and marvel among visitors to the LWL building in Munster.
