A few days ago, C. Sebastian Sommer should have given the main lecture at the annual conference of Bavarian archaeologists. This did not happen, however, as Sommer died immediately before after a brief, serious illness. He was 65 years old. One of his greatest wishes came true in his last professional year in 2021: the World Heritage Committee named the Danube Limes a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This was certainly due to him, because he had a leading role in drafting the application and worked tirelessly for this goal over the years.
Summer shaped the preservation of monuments for two decades. In 2002, the native of Stuttgart moved to the Bavarian State Office for the Preservation of Monuments, where, as the State Conservator and Deputy Conservator General, he fundamentally and very successfully put state archeology on a new footing.
His commitment has also been recognized transnationally
His goal was the permanent preservation of the archaeological monuments in the public interest – or, alternatively, their excavation after extensive consideration. Under his aegis, the procedures for the many archaeological measures were systematized and optimized. This step led to insights into the past that were not thought possible.
Sommer’s engagement brought him work in numerous national and transnational organizations. In the office he spared neither work nor risk, according to the obituary of the state office. He also tackled tasks that nobody but himself dared to tackle. Nor did he avoid controversial discussions. C. Sebastian Sommer’s traces will remain visible in the preservation of monuments for a long time to come.