Archaeologists unearth a Hellenistic-era Thracian warrior tomb in southern Bulgaria
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Reported by Archaeology News:
Archaeologists in southern Bulgaria have unearthed a vibrant tomb that has been dated to the 2nd century BC and is believed to belong to a Thracian warrior elite. The tomb, discovered near the village of Kapitan Petko Voivoda in Topolovgrad during a rescue excavation for a new power cable, is now being hailed as the most opulent Hellenistic-era warrior tomb ever discovered in the country.
It was unearthed by a team from the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, led by archaeologists Vladimir Staykov and Deyan Dichev, and under the scientific supervision of noted Thracian specialist Dr. Daniela Agre. The well-preserved burial pit, three by one meter in size, held the remains of a warrior estimated to have been between 35 and 40 years old. He was buried alongside his war horse on the left-hand side of his body, a practice typical of Thracian nobles.
The burial contained a collection of imported goods, jewelry, and weapons, suggesting his high social standing and participation in broader Mediterranean trade networks. A silver-gilt ceremonial wreath rested on the warrior’s head — a symbol of leadership and honor in Thracian society, particularly crafted for burial. Other grave goods included a silver bracelet, ring, and beautifully worked fibula, all of which showed high workmanship.
Among the weapons found were an iron spear, a shield boss, and a Greek makhaira — a curved sword with a gold-inlaid and semi-precious-stoned handle. The richness of this knife is considered unique in the archaeological record and highlights the wealth and taste of the deceased.
The warrior’s horse was also adorned. Its harness featured gold, silver, and bronze medallions, gilded and encased in high-relief representations of Greek myth scenes — specifically, the demi-god Heracles wrestling with the giant Antaeus. These masterpieces of Hellenistic metallurgy and sculpture are exquisite examples of intricate craftsmanship.
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Of all of the graves unearthed I am amazed that people were honest in leaving behind precious metals jewelry etc.. with their owners and not stealing them. That says something of the people who loved the deceased