munich

Credit: STUTTGARTER ZEITUNG

Italian scientists last week opened the sarcophagus of Frederick the Second (1194-1250), King of Sicily and Holy Roman Emperor, and took samples of dust, textiles, skin and bones under special light.

Scientists will analyse his DNA to establish lineage, and the microorganisms in the sarcophagus to determine why his body is so well preserved. They will also try to establish if Frederick died from poisoning, as suspected. Frederick, who founded the University of Naples, is seen by many as Europe's first experimental scientist.

The clean room in which the opening was carried out was donated by the German company Zander. It was built around the sarcophagus in Palermo cathedral, Sicily.

The sarcophagus was opened only 40 cm as a compromise with the Bishop of Palermo, who considered the endeavour disrespectful. The opening was shown live on Italian TV.