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PROFESSOR CONANT UNEARTHS RUINS OF FRENCH ABBEY

Startling Discoveries Made by Member of Harvard Faculty During Summer

EXCAVATES CLUNY ABBEY

Found Ruins and Passageways Beneath Stable Floor—Interesting Examples of Mediaeval Architecture

Excavations this summer under the remains of the historic abbey at Cluny in France, conducted by the Medieval Academy of America under the supervision of Professor Kenneth J. Conant of Harvard, professor of Architecture, brought to light many important and interesting discoveries. Professor Conant will give an account of his experiences in a lecture on November 5. Among the important finds was the discovery of the original pavement of the church, which was found to be of unusually advanced construction for the period. Other studies show that the original church, which was begun about 1080, was of great dimensions, for the crown of the arch was 98 feet from the pavement. A large part of this vault was finished as early as 1115.

The excavations on the site of the sanctuary brought to light the broken sarcophagus of the first builder of the church, Abbot Saint Hugh, of Semur (1024-1109). More interesting was the tomb of one of his successors, Peter the Venerable (1122-1156), who was buried in the choir of the church. The tomb was found to be of great importance in monastic history. Saint Hugh founded the Cluniac group of monasteries, which was to play an important role in the religious life of Europe for centuries. Peter the Venerable, who was also a great builder, was the last of the great abbots of Cluny, and his tomb was found to be of great interest. The tomb was found to be of great importance in monastic history. Saint Hugh founded the Cluniac group of monasteries, which was to play an important role in the religious life of Europe for centuries. Peter the Venerable, who was also a great builder, was the last of the great abbots of Cluny, and his tomb was found to be of great interest.

In some cases even the traces of the original pavement were found, which gave important data; in this way the width of the principal nave was fixed at 45 feet, which is in accordance with the methods of construction and means of decoration which were employed at the period.

The excavations, which were begun in 1927, have been carried on under the direction of Professor Conant, who has been assisted by a staff of Harvard students. The work has been made possible by a grant from the American Council of Learned Societies.

Near this chapel was found the entrance to the great drain of the abbey, a tortuous passage about two feet wide and six feet high, which was found to be served as a means of communication with the abbey's castle at Lourdon, three miles away. It is impossible to verify this, Professor Conant states, but the investigation had a fascinating background of legendary buried treasure, subterranean chapels and the escapades of former visitors.

On another part of the site, now occupied by an inn, a long winding tunnel dug by the excavators disclosed the interesting remains of the church. One of these had been blocked up and plastered over. Someone had scratched the names of the first two abbots on the wall. The church was ruined and buried. Asked to comment on this, Professor Conant declared these names were of no importance, "except, perhaps, in the lives of certain local lights."

The excavations have yielded information of considerable importance. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground.

In 1811 and between 1820 and 1823 the government destroyed almost all of the abbey, and the present town of Cluny was built on the site. The present town of Cluny was built on the site. The present town of Cluny was built on the site.

Foundations Preserved

The excavators found the walls and foundations well preserved below the present ground level. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground.

The excavators found the walls and foundations well preserved below the present ground level. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground.

The excavators found the walls and foundations well preserved below the present ground level. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground. The foundations of the walls and columns of the church were found to be well preserved, and the level of the pavement was found to be at the same level as that of the surrounding ground.

Secret Passage

Near this chapel was found the entrance to the great drain of the abbey, a tortuous passage about two feet wide and six feet high, which was found to be served as a means of communication with the abbey's castle at Lourdon, three miles away. It is impossible to verify this, Professor Conant states, but the investigation had a fascinating background of legendary buried treasure, subterranean chapels and the escapades of former visitors.

On another part of the site, now occupied by an inn, a long winding tunnel dug by the excavators disclosed the interesting remains of the church. One of these had been blocked up and plastered over. Someone had scratched the names of the first two abbots on the wall. The church was ruined and buried. Asked to comment on this, Professor Conant declared these names were of no importance, "except, perhaps, in the lives of certain local lights."

The image is a page from a newspaper article titled "Professor Conant Unearths Ruins of French Abbey." The main focus of the article is the archaeological discoveries made by a member of the Harvard Faculty during the summer at Cluny Abbey in France.

Key points from the article include:

1. Excitement of Discoveries: The article describes several intriguing finds, including the ruins and passageways beneath the stable floor, which provide examples of medieval architecture.

2. Historical Context:

   • Cluny Abbey, founded in the 11th century, is noted for its historical significance and architectural grandeur.
   • The excavations revealed a sarcophagus beneath the stable, containing remnants of a significant historical figure, Abbot Saint Hugh.

3. Specific Findings:

   • The excavations uncovered the foundations of a chapel and a secret passage that connects the abbey to the castle at Lourdes.
   • The remains of Peter the Venerable, the abbot of Cluny, were found under the nave of the church. His tomb was noted for its elaborate construction.
   • A large vault and a substantial nave were unearthed, providing insights into the medieval construction techniques and the layout of the abbey.

4. Additional Details:

   • The excavations involved detailed documentation and photographs, aiding in understanding the historical context and significance of the ruins.
   • There's mention of legends and stories associated with the abbey, including a secret passage and the ruins of a chapel with a long winding tunnel.

5. Professor's Account:

   • The article includes Professor Conant’s account of his experiences and discoveries, emphasizing the importance of his findings in medieval history and architecture.

The detailed excavation work provides a glimpse into the rich historical heritage of Cluny Abbey and its role in medieval monastic life and architecture.

The image is a newspaper clipping titled "Professor Conant Unearths Ruins of French Abbey." The article details the discoveries made by Professor Conant, a member of Harvard's faculty, during the summer excavations at Cluny Abbey in France. Here's a detailed summary:

1. Excavation Context:

   • The excavations were conducted by the Medical Academy of America and Harvard University.
   • Professor Conant, an associate professor of architecture, led the efforts.
   • The site was Cluny Abbey, a historic abbey in France.

2. Significant Findings:

   • Ruins Beneath the Stable Floor: The team found remnants of medieval architecture beneath the stable floor, including traces of mortar and construction methods from the 11th century.
   • Passageways and Tombs: They uncovered a secret passage leading to a nearby castle, a tomb of Abbot Saint Hugh, and a sarcophagus containing the remains of Abbot Peter the Venerable.
   • Tomb of Peter the Venerable: The tomb was found under the pavement of the abbey's stable, revealing a lead plate and a brown deposit that might have been part of the burial.
   • Sarcophagus and Other Artifacts: Another sarcophagus was found in a chapel, with indications that it might have contained the remains of a significant abbot.

3. Historical Significance:

   • The abbey was founded around 1098 by the Cluniac order.
   • Peter the Venerable, a prominent figure in the abbey's history, was buried there.
   • The excavation revealed the abbey's rich history, including its architectural and monastic significance.

4. Excavation Details:

   • The excavations began in February and continued through the summer.
   • The team used various methods to document and preserve the findings, including photographs and precise measurements.

5. Miscellaneous Discoveries:

   • Secret Passage: A secret passage was found near the chapel, possibly used for communication with the castle at Loudon, three miles away.
   • Legendary Treasures: There were rumors of hidden treasures and subterranean tunnels, though no conclusive evidence was found.
   • Tombstone and Artifacts: A tombstone with the name "Anne" was found, though its significance was uncertain.

6. Public Interest and Legacy:

   • The findings provided significant information about the abbey’s history and architectural heritage.
   • The article notes the public interest in the discoveries and their importance in understanding medieval monastic life.

The overall tone of the article emphasizes the scholarly and historical importance of the discoveries made by Professor Conant and his team.

The image is a newspaper article titled "Professor Conant Unearths Ruins of French Abbey." The article discusses the archaeological discoveries made by Professor Conant, a member of the Harvard faculty, during his excavation of Cluny Abbey in France over the summer.

Key points from the article include:

1. Excavations at Cluny Abbey:

   • Professor Conant and his team discovered remnants of the historic Cluny Abbey, known for its medieval architecture.
   • The excavations uncovered the foundations and remnants of medieval structures, including a nave and various passageways.

2. Significant Findings:

   • The nave's width was determined by the foundation stones, giving important data about the construction methods and decorative styles used around the 11th century.
   • A large part of a vault was found, dating back to around 1115, which had been built to commemorate a significant event in the abbey's history.
   • The tomb of Peter the Venerable (Abbot of Cluny from 1122 to 1156) was discovered. The sarcophagus was found intact, with a lead plate inside and a large deposit of lead at the bottom, indicating the wealth and importance of the abbot.

3. Historical Context:

   • The abbey's history includes the rapid construction of a passage leading to a nearby castle, indicating the strategic importance of Cluny.
   • The tomb of Peter the Venerable, who was a significant figure in monastic history, was uncovered. He was known for his opposition to the Cistercian monastic order and his strong organizational skills.

4. Additional Discoveries:

   • A secret passage, leading to a nearby castle, was found, hinting at the abbey's role in the political and military activities of the time.
   • Another tomb, possibly of a former abbot, was discovered in a nearby chapel.
   • The foundations of the abbey were well-preserved, providing valuable insights into medieval construction techniques.

5. Future Plans:

   • Professor Conant plans to give a lecture on his findings at Harvard on November 5, detailing his discoveries and their implications for medieval history and architecture.

The article highlights the importance of these archaeological findings in understanding the historical and architectural significance of Cluny Abbey and the medieval period.

The image displays an old newspaper clipping from June 30, 1928, detailing the archaeological discoveries made by Professor Kenneth John Conant, a member of the Harvard faculty, at the Cluny Abbey in France. Here are the key points:

Headline and Subheadlines:

• Main Headline: "Professor Conant Unearths Ruins of French Abbey"
• Subheadline: "Starting Discoveries Made by Member of Harvard Faculty During Summer"
• Additional Subheadline: "Excavates Cluny Abbey"
• Further Subhead: "Found Ruins and Passageways Beneath Stable Floor—Interesting Examples of Mediaeval Architecture"

Content Summary:

1. Introduction:

   • Professor Conant's discoveries at the historic Abbey at Cluny in France are highlighted, revealing significant examples of medieval architecture and construction methods.

2. Excavations and Findings:

   • The excavations uncovered important remnants beneath a stable floor, including a secret passage leading to a chapter house, which had been converted to a stable.
   • The passage was found to be 33 feet long and 8 feet wide, ending at a winding tunnel that led to the chapter house ruins.
   • This passage, along with other discoveries, showcases the advanced construction techniques of the Abbey's era.

3. Historical Significance:

   • The Abbey, founded in the 10th century, was one of the most important religious centers, with its church known as Cluny III being the largest in the world until St. Peter's Basilica was constructed.
   • The ruins include sarcophagi of notable figures such as Abbot Saint Hugh and the remains of the first builder of the "Anse" and "Beatrix," likely referring to important benefactors.
   • A significant find was the tomb of Peter the Venerable, located under the pavement of a destroyed section of the abbey.

4. Methodology and Preservation:

   • Professor Conant and his team began preparations in February and conducted excavations from March to uncover these ruins.
   • They found foundations and remnants of the Cluniac order, including a wealth of artifacts such as sculpture fragments, inscriptions, and decorative elements.

5. Future Plans:

   • The discoveries are expected to provide valuable insights into monastic history and architecture, with plans to publish a detailed account in November.

This article emphasizes the historical and architectural significance of the findings at Cluny Abbey and Professor Conant's contributions to understanding medieval monastic life.

The image is a newspaper article from October 5, 1931, detailing the archaeological discoveries made by Professor Conant, a member of the Harvard Faculty, during the summer at Cluny Abbey in France.

Key Points from the Article:

1. Discoveries at Cluny Abbey:

   • Excavations revealed the remains of the historic abbey, which was built between 1024 and 1109.
   • The abbey was a significant monastic center and one of the largest churches in Christendom during the Middle Ages.
   • The excavations uncovered the foundations of the abbey, including parts of the sanctuary and the nave, which were buried under the pavement.

2. Significant Finds:

   • The excavations found the foundations well preserved below the modern ground level.
   • A large plate of lead was fitted into the foundations, bearing the names of the abbot and the builder of the church.
   • The discovery of Peter the Venerable’s tomb was a significant find. His tomb was located in a sarcophagus, which had been reused and was found intact.
   • The abbey's bones were found in a crypt, indicating they were moved there for safekeeping.

3. Historical Context:

   • The abbey was a center of monastic life and learning, and its influence spread across Europe.
   • The abbey was partially destroyed during the French Revolution, and its stones were used for other buildings.
   • The excavations provided valuable insights into the architecture and history of the abbey.

4. Architectural Insights:

   • The excavations revealed examples of medieval architecture, including the width of the principal nave and the methods of construction.
   • The discovery of a secret passage leading to a nearby castle was also noted, which was used by the abbots for safety during times of unrest.

5. Future Plans:

   • Professor Conant planned to give a detailed report on his findings in a lecture on November 5.
   • The discoveries were expected to contribute significantly to the understanding of medieval monastic life and architecture.

The article highlights the importance of the excavations in uncovering the historical and architectural significance of Cluny Abbey, providing valuable insights into medieval European history.

The image shows a printed page from a document or a book. The page includes a title that reads "PROFESSOR CONANT UNEARTHS RUINS OF FRENCH ABBEY," with a subtitle mentioning "Startling Discoveries Made by Member of Harvard Faculty During Summer".
Below the titles, there are two columns of text, which appear to be part of an article discussing the excavation of Cluny Abbey and the discoveries made there. The article includes several paragraphs detailing the findings, such as "Found Ruins and Passageways Beneath Stale Floor—Interesting Examples of Mediaeval Architecture".

The page also has handwritten numbers at the top left side, which are "64-83 17," possibly indicating page numbers or reference numbers. In the top right corner, there is another set of numbers: "13".

This image does not have any pictures or illustrations; it only contains textual information. The document's background is somewhat aged, with light browning around the edges, suggesting it may be an older print. The text itself is legible and appears to be in a standard serif font typical of printed literary works.

The image shows a newspaper clipping from October 5, 1931, detailing a historical discovery made by Professor F.J. Conant, a member of the Harvard faculty, during his summer excavations at Cluny Abbey in France. The headline reads, "PROFESSOR CONANT UNEARTHS RUINS OF FRENCH ABBEY," followed by a subheading, "Startling Discoveries Made by Member of Harvard Faculty During Summer EXCAVATES CLUNY ABBEY."

The article documents Professor Conant's findings beneath the ruins of the historic abbey, including remnants of medieval architecture and significant artifacts like the venerable tomb and secret passageways. The discoveries provide insight into the abbey's construction methods, monastic life, and historical significance. The article includes a detailed recount of excavation work, noting various elements like the old foundations, artistic examples, crypts, and the secret passage near the chapel.

It emphasizes the importance of the find in understanding medieval monastic history and highlights specific features such as mortared stones, large dimensions of vaults, and historical dates. Additionally, mentions of figures like Saint Hugh and other notable individuals involved in the abbey's history are present, along with descriptions of architectural features found during the excavation.

The image shows a scanned page from a historical or academic document, likely a newspaper or magazine article. The page is titled "Professor Conant Unearths Ruins of French Abbey" and is dated June 3, 1931, as indicated at the top of the page. The article discusses archaeological discoveries made by Professor Conant, a member of the Harvard faculty, during excavations at Cluny Abbey in France during the summer.

Key Details from the Image:

Headline and Introduction:

• The headline, "Professor Conant Unearths Ruins of French Abbey," sets the context for the article, indicating that the content focuses on archaeological findings at Cluny Abbey.
• The subheading, "Startling Discoveries Made by Member of Harvard Faculty During Summer," emphasizes the significance of the discoveries and the involvement of a Harvard professor.

Main Content:

• The article describes excavations conducted by Professor Conant at Cluny Abbey, a historic site in France. The excavations were carried out under the auspices of the Medical Academy of America, with Professor Conant serving as the associate professor of architecture.
• Key discoveries mentioned include:
  • Foundations and Passageways Beneath Stable Floor: Excavations revealed traces of foundations, indicating the presence of medieval architectural elements beneath the stable floor.
  • Ruins of Important Examples of Mediaeval Architecture: The article highlights the discovery of ruins that provide insight into medieval construction techniques and architectural styles.
  • Secret Passage: A secret passage was found near the great drain of the abbey, measuring about two feet wide and six feet high, suggesting a hidden communication route.
  • Peter's Tomb: The tomb of Peter the Venerable, a significant historical figure, was discovered beneath the pavement of a chapel. The tomb contained a sarcophagus with a large plate of lead fitted around the body, and the foundations of the wall were preserved below the level of the nave.
  • Abbot Hugh's Sarcophagus: The remains of a sarcophagus containing the body of Abbot Hugh, the founder of the Cistercian order, were found. This discovery included traces of the original structure and some preserved fragments.
  • Other Discoveries: The article mentions the discovery of a secret passage leading to a church, the remains of a chapel, and various artifacts such as sculptures, paintings, and fragmentary plans.

Historical Context:

• The article provides historical context about Cluny Abbey, noting that it was destroyed in 1811 and 1823 by the government. Despite this, the excavations revealed significant medieval structures and artifacts.
• The discoveries are described as important for understanding monastic history, particularly the Cistercian order, and the architectural and religious practices of the medieval period.

Visual Elements:

• The page is typed in a formal, serif font typical of early 20th-century print media.
• The text is well-organized into paragraphs, with headings and subheadings to guide the reader.
• The article includes detailed descriptions of the discoveries, their historical significance, and the methods used in the excavations.

Overall Impression:

The image depicts a historical article that documents significant archaeological findings at Cluny Abbey, emphasizing the contributions of Professor Conant and the importance of these discoveries for understanding medieval architecture, monastic life, and historical preservation. The tone is informative and academic, aimed at readers interested in archaeology, history, and architectural studies.

The image appears to be a page from an old newspaper or magazine article. The article is about excavations conducted at Cluny Abbey in France by Professor Conant, an associate professor of architecture at Harvard University. The article discusses the discoveries made during the excavations, including the discovery of the tomb of Peter the Venerable, the abbot of Cluny, who was buried in 1156. The article also mentions the discovery of a secret passage leading to a nearby castle, as well as the remains of sculptures and paintings that have been unearthed. The article provides details about the excavations and the significance of the discoveries, and includes photographs and illustrations to accompany the text.