The story of “hunger stones”

Hunger stones are stones embedded into a river during droughts to mark the water level. The purpose was to warn future generations that they would have to endure famine-related hardships if the water sank to this level again. This practice was prevalent in Europe in the 15th through 19th centuries.

Now, Europe is experiencing severe drought. Therefore, riverbeds are drying up, and the hunger stones are resurfacing. Generally, these stones are visible only when water levels are extremely low.

The most infamous hunger stone, which dates back to 1616, is now visible. It is in the Czech city of Děčín on the bank of the river Elbe, near the German border. The warning on the stone reads, “Wenn du mich seehst, dann weine” – “If you see me, weep.”

Only time will tell… but climate change is a reality which is affecting us.