Archaeologists open up Jenatsch’s grave
Jenatsch’s grave lies in the cathedral in Chur. In 1959 it was opened for the first time and scientifically examined by the Zurich anthropologist Erik Hug (1911‒1991).Photo: Archaeological Office Graubünden
+
In the grave he found Jenatsch’s mortal remains, the rich funeral garments still in good condition more than 300 years after his death. Jenatsch had been killed with an axe in 1639. Both fractures on his skull are clearly visible. Following Hug’s full examination Jenatsch’s remains were reinterred.Photo: Archaeological Office Graubünden
+
The second exhumation took place in 2012 under Manuel Janosa (Archaeological Office Graubünden). In the presence of cameras from the Romansh TV station the grave was opened once more and examined.Photo: Archaeological Office Graubünden
+
Skull and skeleton lay in a protective layer of sand which Erik Hug had added during the reinterment of the bones in 1961.Photo: Archaeological Office Graubünden
+
The anthropologist Christina Papageorgorgopoulou recovers the skull. She is wearing a protective suit in order not to leave any of her own DNA on the bones.Photo: Archaeological Office Graubünden
+
The scientist removes DNA samples for analysis and draws up an inventory of the parts of the skeleton.Photo: Archaeological Office Graubünden
+
Based on images of the skull by computer tomography facial reconstruction was made possible. Parts of the skull lost to decomposition were added first, followed later by the creation of a three-dimensional model made of Plasticine.Photo: Archaeological Office Graubünden
+