From Häven all over the world?

The next exciting lecture at the Groß Raden Archaeological Open-Air Museum will take place on Wednesday, February 12, at 7.30 pm in the exhibition building. Dr. Joscha Gretzinger (Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig) will report on how some DNA samples from the imperial princely tombs near Häven (Ludwigslust-Parchim district) have helped to paint a new picture of the Migration Period.
DNA is the blueprint of life; its decoding has contributed significantly to our understanding of human evolution. However, research was long limited to the genetic information of organisms living today. This has changed with the development of archaeogenetics, the science of "ancient DNA". Using the latest biochemical methods and algorithms, it is now possible to decode DNA from long-dead organisms. At the transition between antiquity and the Middle Ages, the aim is to show how ancient DNA can help to rewrite history: The Migration Period heralded the collapse of the Imperium Romanum through the large-scale immigration of Germanic populations. However, although the aftermath of these demographic upheavals continues to shape our political and cultural perceptions of Europe today, the extent of this migration from northern Europe remains controversial. Ancient DNA can help answer these questions and shed light on how migration 1500 years ago contributed to the diversity in Europe today.

The entrance fee is €7 (reduced €4). Before the lecture, there will be an opportunity to visit the Gallery of Nature Photographers and the exhibition "Slavic Castle - In the Footsteps of a Queen" in the exhibition building.