Literati, Skeletons, Dishes: Thuringia's Unique Pairs - Thuringia's Hidden Gems: From Prehistoric Fossils to Literary Legends
Thuringia holds a mix of cultural and scientific treasures, from ancient fossils to literary landmarks. The region is home to the famous 'Tambach Lovers,' prehistoric skeletons that reshaped paleontology, as well as monuments celebrating Germany's most celebrated poets. Meanwhile, local traditions and playful tributes to beloved cartoon characters add to its unique charm.
In 1997, paleontologists uncovered the 'Tambach Lovers' at the Bromacker site in the Thuringian Forest. These two Seymouria sanjuanensis skeletons, locked in an embrace, were the first of their kind found outside the U.S. Their discovery proved that seymouriamorphs—early tetrapods bridging amphibians and reptiles—lived in Europe during the Early Permian, around 290 million years ago. Later finds in the same region, including Seymouria baylorensis and Archegosaurus, further cemented Thuringia's importance in tetrapod research.
Beyond fossils, Thuringia honours its literary past. The friendship between Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Friedrich Schiller remains legendary. A monument in Weimar, depicting the two poets side by side, stands as a lasting tribute. Their collaboration shaped German literature, leaving a legacy still celebrated today.
Art and tradition also thrive here. The 'Gotha Lovers,' a 15th-century painting of a richly dressed couple, hangs in the Friedenstein Foundation's collection. Meanwhile, local cuisine features Thuringian dumplings, often served with gravy—now adapted for vegetarian and vegan diets. Even pop culture has left its mark: Erfurt displays sculptures of The Mouse characters, joining other famous TV duos in the city's streets.
The 'Tambach Lovers' fossils remain a cornerstone of European paleontology, while Goethe and Schiller's monument keeps their legacy alive. From prehistoric discoveries to culinary traditions and playful sculptures, Thuringia blends history, science, and culture in unexpected ways. These elements continue to draw attention to the region's rich heritage.
