Utrecht’s 12th century city wall uncovered

Parts of Utrecht's medieval city wall was found during the replacement of heat pipes near Lepelenburg. The discovered wall remains, which date from various periods, include part of Utrecht's very first city hall from the 12th century, NU.nl reports.

This is the first time that parts of the first city wall has been found. The construction of this first wall started in 1122, when Utrecht was granted city rights. It was intended to protect Utrecht against attacks. The wall was built on the first erected earthen wall at the same time as a moat was dug around the city. Various towers and four city gates were built at strategic places. The wall was built of tuff- a type of stone made of volcanic material. 

The tuff wall was replaced by a heavier and higher brick city wall from the 13th century. 

The remains are being documented and the pipe replacement will be adjusted so that the remains are undisturbed.