The Battle of Gniew Unearthed: Archaeology and the Polish-Swedish War (1626–29)

Abstract Recent archaeological research at the early medieval site complex in Ciepłe, Pomerania, has uncovered unexpected evidence of events from the 1620s. Although the area has long been known for its three strongholds, the discovery of seventeenth-century fortification remains came as a surprise. Historical accounts and previous studies had documented the presence of human remains and medieval artifacts, but the recent excavation in 2023–24 provided new insights. The identification of musket balls, a bullet mold, and archival Swedish maps confirmed the existence of a Schweden Schanze – earthworks – on the remnants of an early medieval stronghold. Additionally, human remains belonging to six individuals, along with several loose bones were uncovered in the context of earthworks. Initially assumed to be early medieval, radiocarbon dating disproved this hypothesis, linking them instead to the early seventeenth century. Given the historical context, the most plausible interpretation associates these burials with the Battle of Gniew (1626), a key conflict between Polish and Swedish forces. These findings offer new perspectives on the historical use of the site and the broader military history of the region.