KALIAKRA.- The ancient fortress of Kaliakra has once again proven to be a treasure trove of history. The recently concluded Kaliakra 2025 archaeological expedition, led by Associate Professor Dr. Boni Petrunova, Director of Bulgaria’s National History Museum, has uncovered more than 400 valuable artifacts that shed new light on the region’s rich past.

A Golden Necropolis and a Quarter of the Rich

For two months, the team focused their efforts on the Golden Necropolis and the so-called “Quarter of the Rich,” where excavations revealed a wide array of finds dating from the 6th to the 14th centuries. Among the discoveries were gold coins, over 50 silver coins, and rings engraved with pentagrams—each piece offering a glimpse into the life and wealth of Kaliakra’s medieval elite.

One of the most remarkable finds came from the grave of a young woman, where archaeologists uncovered a prochelnik (head ornament) with two finely crafted filigree earrings. This is only the third such ornament ever found at Kaliakra, following earlier discoveries in 2007 and 2012.

Sacred Objects in Excellent Condition

According to archaeologist Dr. Philip Petrunov, particular excitement surrounded the discovery of two lead pilgrimage ampullae—small vessels known as eulogiae—bearing the images of St. Demetrius and St. Theodora. These sacred containers once held blessed oil collected from holy sites and were carried home by pilgrims as tokens of protection and faith.

“Only about 30 such ampullae have ever been found, and most are in poor condition,” explained Dr. Petrunov. “The two from Kaliakra are remarkably well preserved, making them invaluable for research.”

A Glimpse Into the Ancient World

The expedition also unearthed a statuette linked to the Greco-Roman cult of Isis-Fortuna, adding to the site’s layered cultural history. Meanwhile, the discovery of a rare coin featuring Byzantine Emperor John V and his mother Anna of Savoy highlighted Kaliakra’s importance as a thriving trade and political hub in the Balkans during the Middle Ages.

Preparing for the Future

Beyond the finds themselves, the expedition also took steps to make Kaliakra’s history more accessible to visitors. New informational panels have been installed at the archaeological reserve, and according to Penko Georgiev, Director of the History Museum in Kavarna, plans are underway to modernize the museum at Cape Kaliakra.

History Comes Alive

The discoveries of Kaliakra 2025 enrich our understanding of the fortress once known as the capital of the Despotate of Dobruja. From sacred objects and luxurious jewelry to coins linking the site to broader Mediterranean trade routes, each artifact tells a story of the people who lived, worshipped, and prospered on this dramatic Black Sea cape.

As Dr. Petrunova noted at the close of the season, “Every excavation at Kaliakra reminds us that the past is still alive beneath our feet, waiting to be revealed.”