Archaeologists uncover early iron smelting in Stoob

Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of early iron production in Stoob, a village in central Burgenland, ORF reported. A smelting furnace is being excavated between Stoob, Oberpullendorf and Großwarasdorf.

Researchers have found slag, pieces of roasted iron ore and pottery shards. Archaeologist Manuela Thurner said the pottery finds are linked to what is definitively the earliest iron smelting in Burgenland.

Many similar smelting pits or furnaces date back more than 2,000 years. A settlement may also have stood close to the Stoob furnace. Thurner said iron smelting was already taking place in the Celtic period, or closer to Roman times, but archaeologists have not yet found its origins.

Iron was produced for centuries in the Oberpullendorf district and southern Burgenland. Ore was mined near the surface and usually processed where it was extracted. Archaeologist and metals specialist Lukas Kerbler said traces of mining shafts can still be seen in the forests.

Iron from the Oberpullendorf district was highly regarded and in demand. Production exceeded local needs, and the surplus was sold well beyond the region.