SOFIA.- A fascinating new exhibition at the National Historical Museum is offering a captivating glimpse into Bulgaria's rich past, showcasing remarkable archaeological discoveries made throughout 2024. "Ancient Finds. New Discoveries. Archaeological Season 2024" officially opened its doors on January 23, 2025, with a prestigious inauguration attended by Vice President Iliana Yotova, Minister of Tourism Miroslav Borshosh, Deputy Minister of Culture Ameliya Gesheva, and other dignitaries, scientists, and members of the press.
Delve into the rich archaeological history of Bulgaria with this comprehensive report on the Tundzha Regional Archaeology Project. Click here to explore "The Tundzha Regional Archaeology Project" on Amazon and uncover insights into past civilizations.
The exhibition highlights the tireless work of archaeologists who excavated 24 sites across the country, uncovering over centuries of history, from prehistory to the Middle Ages. These discoveries, made possible through collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, local municipalities, private sponsors, and partner institutions like the Center for Underwater Archaeology, paint a vivid picture of life in ancient Bulgaria.
One of the star attractions is a find from the Kokalyanski Urvich fortress. This once-mysterious site has yielded a remarkable grave containing a silver ring adorned with a gold double-headed eagle, a powerful symbol of high social standing. The grave belonged to a young man who lived in the 14th century, offering invaluable insights into the burial rituals and material culture of the time. This discovery even lends credence to local songs about Tsar Yasen, suggesting they may be rooted in historical fact.
Other captivating finds include:
• Poroy Settlement Mound: Evidence of sophisticated metalworking practices from the Late Eneolithic period.
• Akladi Church (near Chernomorets): A 5th-6th century church, adding to the region's rich Christian heritage from Roman and medieval times. Discoveries at the medieval town of Lyutitsa and the Bukelon fortress further underscore the strategic importance of these locations throughout Bulgarian history.
• Underwater Discoveries: Excavations in the Sozopol Bay and near Cape Galata (Varna) have unearthed amphorae, anchors, and pottery fragments, revealing bustling trade and maritime activity in the Black Sea region during Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages.
• Balak Dere Fortress: Remains of a 2nd-3rd century temple, shedding light on the evolution of religious architecture in the area.
• Velino Medieval Settlement: 9th-10th century stone structures and graves that offer new perspectives on the early Bulgarian state and the rise of Christianity.
• "St. Archangel" Site (near Dabnitsa): An early Christian temple and Late Antiquity finds, highlighting the strategic significance of this area.
• Ravadinovo Ancient Fortress: Part of the fortification system and a unique ceramic ritual basin (perirrhanterion) dating back to the 5th-2nd centuries BC.
• Shabla and Chengene Skele Underwater Sites: Lead stocks and glass vessels that provide evidence of thriving maritime trade during Antiquity and the Late Middle Ages.
The dedicated team of archaeologists behind these discoveries includes Assoc. Prof. Dr. Boni Petrunova, Prof. Dr. Ivan Hristov, and many other experts who have painstakingly brought these stories from the past to light.
"This exhibition is more than just a collection of objects," explains a museum representative. "It's a journey through time, allowing us to connect with Bulgaria's rich heritage and understand how these archaeological finds contribute to our understanding of both ancient civilizations and the development of modern Bulgarian society."
The National Historical Museum continues its vital work of preserving and studying these invaluable artifacts, ensuring that Bulgaria's past continues to inform and inspire its present and future.
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