Hundreds of Pilgrim Medallions Spanning Four Centuries Discovered in Switzerland
Archaeologists in Switzerland have uncovered an extraordinary collection of hundreds of religious pilgrim medallions dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries, offering a remarkable glimpse into centuries of European pilgrimage, faith, and everyday devotion.
The remarkable discovery was made in Villmergen by a metal detectorist working in cooperation with heritage authorities. Recovered from a single location, the medallions represent pilgrimage traditions that spanned more than 400 years and connected worshippers with some of Europe's most important religious destinations.
Among the largest group of finds are medallions from Einsiedeln Abbey, one of Switzerland's most famous Marian pilgrimage sites. Many feature the revered image of the Virgin Mary that has attracted pilgrims for centuries. Other medallions originated from the Bavarian pilgrimage centers of Ettal and Wesobrunn in southern Germany.Image Credit : Abteilung Kultur
Several artifacts traveled even greater distances. Researchers identified medallions from Rome depicting the city's four Holy Doors, which are opened only during Jubilee Years celebrated every 25 years. Pilgrims who passed through these sacred doors received indulgences, making these medallions treasured reminders of their spiritual journeys.
The collection also includes examples from Lourdes in southern France, one of the world's best-known Marian pilgrimage destinations that continues to welcome millions of visitors annually.
Archaeologists explain that these objects served far more than a decorative purpose. Many believers wore them as pendants or attached them to rosaries, believing they offered divine protection against illness, accidents, and misfortune. Others were placed above cradles, displayed inside homes, or positioned near fields and crops to seek blessings and protection.
Several medallions honored saints associated with specific forms of protection. One depicts Saint Anastasius the Persian, traditionally invoked for relief from headaches and mental illness. Another features Saint Anthony, the patron saint of lost objects. The heavy wear visible on this medallion, along with a repaired suspension hole, suggests it remained a cherished personal possession for many years.
Researchers say the collection demonstrates how pilgrimage souvenirs became deeply integrated into everyday religious life. Church authorities actively encouraged their use by distributing devotional medals and other sacred objects that helped strengthen personal faith and preserve memories of important pilgrimages.
The discovery provides valuable insight into the religious traditions, travel networks, and devotional practices that connected Christian communities across Europe for centuries. Officials believe the remarkable collection represents one of Switzerland's most significant finds of early modern pilgrimage artifacts and offers a unique window into the spiritual lives of generations of worshippers.