The bubonic plague was a highly contagious and deadly disease that ravaged Europe in waves throughout history. Radiocarbon dating and historical documents, including a note dating back to 1634 detailing a plague outbreak in the early 17th century, provide critical clues for dating the remains. These pieces of evidence suggest that the mass graves likely date back to the 1632-1633 epidemic.

The excavation has revealed not only the tragic toll of the epidemic but also the hurried and unconventional burial practices necessitated by the urgent need to dispose of the dead. Bodies were packed tightly into the pits, with little regard for traditional Christian burial customs. Langbein said: “This means a large number of dead people who needed to be buried in a short time frame without regard to Christian burial practices.”