Nymburk renovation unearths possible centuries-old ossuary
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Workers in Nymburk, a town in the Central Bohemian region of Czech Republic, uncovered human remains and old masonry during a CZK 25 million renovation of Kostelní Square.
Local historian Pavel Fojtík believes the finds may be part of a previously known but unlocated ossuary, a repository for human bones, associated with the town’s former cemetery. The discovered structure could be around 12 meters long and contain remains dating from the 13th to 18th centuries.
Town officials are cautious about confirming the ossuary’s identity and state that the construction proceeds with archaeological oversight and proper documentation of all finds. However, Fojtík publicly questioned whether the archaeological investigation is thorough enough, suggesting that excavators are removing soil too quickly and potentially damaging historical evidence. The town disputes Fojtík’s criticisms, asserting that utility repairs were planned from the beginning and that archaeological supervision covers the entire construction site.
The renovation of Kostelní Square and surrounding streets began this fall and is expected to finish in 2027. It is currently unknown if the discoveries will change the project’s budget or schedule, and further examination will determine if the walls are part of the historic ossuary.
