used

In a discovery that has surprised even seasoned archaeologists, a medieval wax notebook dating to the 13th or 14th century has been found perfectly preserved inside a latrine in Paderborn, Germany. Alongside it, fragments of fine silk were recovered, which experts believe were used as toilet paper — a detail that speaks volumes about the wealth of whoever once used that pit. The find, announced by the Regional Association of Westphalia-Lippe (LWL) on May 12, 2026, is described as unique in all of North Rhine-Westphalia. The discovery came during construction work for a new city administration building in Paderborn's historic center. The site lies in a sensitive urban zone near the immunity wall of the Abdinghof Monastery, bounded by Marienplatz