Matthias Wemhoff

Prof. Dr. Matthias Wemhoff serves as the Director of the Museum of Prehistory and Early History and State Archaeologist of Berlin. He is also an Honorary Professor at the Free University of Berlin in the Department of Prehistoric Archaeology. His work spans archaeological monument preservation, research on medieval and modern history, and urban archaeology.

• Academic Appointments:
  • Director, Museum of Prehistory and Early History (2008–present)
  • Honorary Professor, Free University of Berlin (2010–present)
  • Director, Dalheim Monastery Foundation (2003–2008)
  • Director, Paderborn Imperial Palace Museum (1992–2006)
• Research Focus:
  • Medieval and modern archaeology
  • Urban archaeology and historical stratigraphy
  • Carolingian period studies
  • Archaeological heritage from East Prussia
  • Cultural monument preservation
• Leadership Roles:
  • Chairman, Scientific Advisory Board of MiQua, LVR Jewish Museum (2018–present)
  • Member, Board of Trustees of Roman-Germanic Central Museum Mainz (2017–present)
  • Chairman, KAFU – Commission for Archaeological Find Research (2008–present)
  • Managing Director, German Archaeological Association (2011–present)

His recent publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches to archaeological heritage, including studies on the Carolingian period, urban development in medieval Berlin, and the ethical challenges of Nazi-era artifact provenance. The museum under his leadership plays a central role in storing and disseminating archaeological finds from Berlin's territory, operating under Germany's "Große Schatzregal" (Great Treasures Law). He also contributes to public archaeology through television documentaries and educational programs.