Grand Masters' Tomb Found
Polish archeologists report that DNA testing has confirmed the skeletal remains found in a Kwidzyn (German: Marienwerder) cathedral are the 600-year-old remains of three of the Teutonic Knights' more famous Grand Masters. Archeologist Bogumil Wisniewski, says that researchers are 95% sure the remains are those of Grand Masters Werner von Orseln (1324–30), Ludolf Koenig (1342–45) and Heinrich von Plauen (1410–13). The skeletons, found in wooden coffins, were draped in silk robes and painted with gold, as was the custom of only those in high positions, during the Middle Ages. Several other indicators supported the find, including murals showing the three knights and historic documents indicating two of them were buried beneath the church. After the scientific studies are complete the remains will be put on public display in the ancient church, under a special glass shield.
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