A rare compass made of copper dating back 500 years was recently unearthed in the canonical gardens of Frombork, Poland. Resembling a wishbone with two prongs extending into a letter V shape, the artifact was announced by the Warminska Grupa Eksploracyjna on August 4, 2024. The group also discovered underground tunnels in the area that led them to the unique compass, which is only the third of its kind found in Poland. After confirming its age to be between the 15th and 16th centuries, the compass is believed to have possible connections to Polish astronomer and mathematician Nicolaus Copernicus, who spent much of his life in Frombork.
The Misja Skarb Foundation, another group involved in the find, suggested that the ancient compass discovered may have belonged to Nicolaus Copernicus. They believe that the tool could have been used by the astronomer to perform precise measurements and calculations crucial to his astronomical research. Copernicus, born in 1473, was known for his revolutionary work in heliocentrism, challenging the common belief that the Earth was at the center of the universe. His groundbreaking ideas laid the foundation for future astronomers to further explore and understand the cosmos.
Copernicus’ heliocentric theory was documented in his book “On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres,” completed in 1532 but published posthumously in 1543. The finding of a compass possibly linked to Copernicus has significant historical importance, as it provides direct evidence of the practical application of science by the renowned astronomer. This discovery adds to the understanding of Copernicus’s work and his contributions to the field of astronomy, particularly in challenging the geocentric model of the universe.
Following the discovery, the artifact has been transferred to the Nicolaus Copernicus Museum, which already possesses a similar tool in its collection. This relocation ensures the preservation and display of the rare compass for public viewing and further research. The museum’s Facebook post on August 4, 2024, acknowledged the significance of the find and its potential connection to Copernicus’s life and work. The presence of the compass in the museum adds to its collection of historical artifacts associated with the astronomer, offering visitors a glimpse into his scientific contributions.
The archaeological discovery of the ancient compass in the canonical gardens of Frombork sheds light on the scientific advancements made by Copernicus during the 15th and 16th centuries. The artifact provides tangible evidence of how Copernicus may have applied scientific instruments in his research, deepening our understanding of his groundbreaking heliocentric theory. The find also underscores the importance of continued archaeological research in uncovering hidden historical treasures and connecting them to significant figures in scientific history like Copernicus. The exploration and preservation of such artifacts contribute to the ongoing study and appreciation of past scientific achievements and the individuals who shaped our understanding of the natural world.
