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Gold rush in Bannewitz: hidden treasures flash!
Christmas is celebrated in Saxon Switzerland-Eastern Ore Mountains, while valuable gold bars were discovered in Bannewitz.
Gold rush in Bannewitz: hidden treasures flash!
Christmas is just around the corner, and while many in Cologne are preparing for the contemplative time, a gold discovery in Bannewitz is causing a stir. During mowing work, several gold bars were discovered there, the value of which is estimated at over 30,000 euros. An unexpected find that raises several legal questions not only for the finder, but also for the municipality and the responsible authorities. While preparations for Advent are in full swing, Bannewitz is preparing to decide how to deal with the valuable find. Sächsische.de reports that no owner has come forward yet. If this continues, the treasure could fall to the community.
But how do you legally deal with such a find? In Germany, Section 984 of the Civil Code (BGB) regulates treasure discoveries. The 50:50 rule applies, which means that the finder and the owner of the property share the value of the treasure. In order to avoid legal difficulties, the finder must report the find to the relevant authorities, otherwise there will be criminal consequences. The finance emphasizes that in this case too, the property owner usually has rights to the ground below the surface. Anyone who conceals a find is guilty of embezzlement, which can be punished with a prison sentence.
A look at gold and its legal aspects
But what exactly counts as treasure? According to the legal definition, treasure is movable property that was hidden until discovered and once had a previous owner. This means that the find in Bannewitz cannot simply be viewed as a piece of gold, but the legal claims to it must be clarified. There is a clear distinction between a treasure and a find that may have a living owner. Gold.de points out that there are countless treasure hunters in Germany looking for valuable finds, but they must act in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. This includes, among other things, requiring permits to dig at certain depths on your own property.
The golden times may still be coming for some, but the legal framework is clear and important to avoid getting into trouble. Historically significant treasures also fall under monument protection and must be reported to the authorities. With a find as valuable as Bannewitz, it is crucial to take the right steps to help both the finder and the community reach a fair solution.
In the coming weeks, developments surrounding the gold discovery will continue to be followed as people in and around Cologne get into the pre-Christmas spirit. It is eagerly awaited whether the gold will remain in the hands of the community or perhaps find its way to a finder.