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Stolen Skull Returned to Vienna After 60 Years

11/2/2025

24 5

Summary

Story summary

A man from northern Germany returned a skull he stole 60 years ago from Vienna's St Stephen's Cathedral.
The skull arrived in a cardboard box, accompanied by a letter explaining the return.
Franz Zehetner, who opened the parcel, expressed surprise at the unexpected delivery.
The cathedral archivist noted the skull's significance as part of the catacombs housing the remains of approximately 11,000 individuals buried in the 18th century.

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Story summary

A man from northern Germany returned a skull he stole 60 years ago from Vienna's St Stephen's Cathedral.
The skull arrived in a cardboard box, accompanied by a letter explaining the return.
Franz Zehetner, who opened the parcel, expressed surprise at the unexpected delivery.
The cathedral archivist noted the skull's significance as part of the catacombs housing the remains of approximately 11,000 individuals buried in the 18th century.