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Geotechnical consultancy

Rock Cellar

Rock cellars and historic cavities

Request advice on rock cellars
Historischer Felsenkeller

Historic rock cellars, networks of passageways and man-made cavities are a distinctive feature of many old towns in Germany.

Survey, assessment, securing and restoration of historic cavity systems

These structures often date back to the Middle Ages and were originally used as storage, shelter or supply facilities. However, their exact location, extent and structural condition are often only partially documented. This can pose risks to buildings, traffic areas and underground infrastructure.

DMT supports local authorities, infrastructure operators and private clients in the investigation, assessment, safeguarding and rehabilitation of historic cavity systems. Our interdisciplinary teams combine expertise in the geosciences, geotechnical engineering and civil engineering to provide a basis for decision-making regarding planning, construction and the preservation of existing structures.

Porträtfoto von Dr. Roland Weißmann, Geotechnical Engineer bei DMT

“Through our investigation methods and geotechnical analyses, we help to preserve the cultural heritage of historic cellar and tunnel systems whilst ensuring the safety of buildings, transport routes and infrastructure.”


Dr Roland Weißmann
Geotechnical Engineering

+49 160 8880661

Let’s discuss your project together. I look forward to hearing from you.

Exploration of historic cellar, passageway and cavity systems

A comprehensive inspection of the existing cavities forms the basis of every assessment. 

The aim is to reliably determine their location, geometry, condition and potential hazards.

Our services include:

  • Geophysical surveys using ground-penetrating radar, seismic and geoelectric methods
  • Ground and void investigations via drilling
  • Site inspections and visual condition assessments
  • Surveying and documentation of cellar and passageway systems
  • Risk and hazard analyses
  • Assessment of the building fabric
  • Structural stability analyses and geotechnical assessments

Utility and road works in historic town centre areas at risk of subsidence

Underground voids pose particular challenges for planning and execution in infrastructure projects. 

Particularly in pipeline and road construction projects, unknown voids can affect structural stability and lead to significant risks during construction.

DMT supports infrastructure projects from the investigation stage right through to implementation:

  • Site investigation and cavity surveying
  • Geotechnical risk assessment
  • Development of site-specific safety concepts
  • Support with tendering for safety measures
  • Technical project management and on-site consultancy

Early-stage risk analyses and safety concepts enable project processes to be optimised and enhance the safety of staff, local residents and infrastructure.

Safeguarding and restoration of listed cellars and passageways

Historic cellar and passageway systems are often part of a region’s cultural heritage.

Their restoration therefore requires a balanced consideration of structural stability, usability and heritage conservation requirements.

Our services include:

  • Development of stabilisation and restoration concepts in line with heritage conservation principles
  • Coordination with heritage conservation authorities
  • Planning and tendering for stabilisation measures
  • Structural stability calculations
  • On-site supervision and quality assurance

Our experts develop cost-effective and sustainable solutions that support the long-term preservation of historic buildings whilst meeting current safety requirements.

DMT’s geotechnical expertise in rock cellars and historic cavity systems

DMT has extensive experience in the investigation, assessment and safeguarding of historic cavity systems. By combining geophysical measurement techniques, geotechnical expertise and engineering planning, we ensure safe infrastructure, the protection of historic buildings and sustainable urban development.

Please get in touch; together we will find the ideal solution for your project.

What you should know

Frequently Asked Questions about rock cellars and historic cavity systems

Rock cellars are man-made underground cavities, many of which were constructed during the Middle Ages. They were used, amongst other things, as storage, shelter or supply facilities, and are often found beneath historic town centres.

Geophysical methods such as ground-penetrating radar, seismic surveys and geoelectric surveys, as well as drilling, surveying and site inspections, are used for exploration. The choice of methods depends on the geology and the specific task at hand.

Unknown voids can compromise the stability of roads, utility lines and buildings. Early investigation reduces risks, increases planning certainty and supports cost-effective project delivery.

Our services range from condition surveys, structural stability calculations and risk assessments to the planning, tendering and technical supervision of safety and refurbishment measures.

Restoration plans take into account both the requirements of heritage conservation and current safety standards. The measures are developed and implemented in close consultation with the relevant authorities.