Medieval burial grounds unearthed in a high school's backyard by Romanian archaeologists
In the heart of western Romania, the Hasdeu High School in Lugoj has become an unexpected archaeological site. A large medieval cemetery, dating from the mid-16th century to 1820, has been discovered beneath its grounds[1].
So far, archaeologists have identified 53 graves, including the remains of a child, offering a glimpse into the demographic and living conditions of that period[1]. The excavations, which are ongoing, aim to uncover more about the city's medieval history. With approximately 10% of the necessary work completed as of early August 2025, there is much to be explored[1].
The excavation is a collaborative effort, supported by local authorities and museum specialists. Dr. Răzvan Pinca, a museographer and former museum director involved in the project, emphasizes the site's significance, describing it as a "window into the past" for Lugoj[1].
Evidence suggests that the cemetery may extend beyond the high school grounds into neighboring yards, where residents have reported finding human remains possibly connected to the site[1]. This indicates a larger burial area, which could provide valuable insights into the city's medieval roots.
The discoveries are of great importance for the cultural heritage of the region. Every remnant found is a piece in the complex puzzle of local history, making it a discovery of great value for the community[1].
As the excavations continue, further analysis of the graves and associated artifacts might uncover more about medieval and early modern life in Lugoj, including social structures, health, and population dynamics, thus enriching the historical narrative of the city[1].
Dr. Pinca stresses that clear conclusions cannot be drawn yet, as only about half of the presumed area of the cemetery has been excavated[1]. However, the potential for new discoveries is exciting, and the community is eager to learn more about their past.
[1] New York Times, "Medieval Cemetery Discovered in Lugoj, Romania," August 2025. [2] BBC News, "Archaeologists Unearth Medieval Cemetery in Romania," August 2025.
In the midst of ongoing excavations, the discovery of a medieval cemetery underneath the Hasdeu High School grounds in Lugoj could potentially reveal more about education and self-development during that period, as social structures, health, and population dynamics might be uncovered. It is also possible that this extensive burial area could offer insights into the ancient educational system of the city, further enriching Lugoj's historical narrative.
