As a result of research involving volunteers and students carrying out an excavation project led by a university team specializing in the Bronze and Iron Ages at Bükk in north-western Hungary, they have uncovered a rich collection of extremely interesting items, including more than 60 bronze and iron objects.
The research focuses on an ancient village located on the mountaintop of Verebce-bérc. Before being destroyed by an attack, this village flourished in the seventh and sixth centuries B.C. This year is the sixth year of field searches and the third season of excavations.
In three research events this year, the team identified buildings burnt down during the previous siege and continued to survey the area with metal detecting equipment.
Metal detector surveys conducted in the region revealed an astounding array of metal artifacts, offering fresh perspectives on the cultural ties within this area. The most outstanding discovery is a collection of over 60 bronze and iron objects, primarily jewelry and horse harness parts, likely buried during the siege.
This treasure is especially noteworthy because of its ties to the cultures of southeast Europe, especially the Balkan region. Researchers believe this assemblage was interred to ward off the assault, rendering it invaluable documentation of the village’s past battles, commerce, and cross-cultural exchange.
Numerous eminent experts from different universities have been drawn to the project, and they have worked together on various facets of the project, including research and logistics. Berlin-based archaeologist Bernhard Heeb and University of Olomouc professor Martin Golec are among the guests. The Bükk National Park staff has also assisted the team, with assistance from specialists such as Bartha Attila, Ézsöl Tibor, and Holló Sándor. Members of the Hungarian National Museum’s National Research Institute, including Fullár Zoltán and Bakos Gábor, have also provided support.
Nemzeti Régészeti Intézet (Hungarian National Museum)
Cover Image: ELTE BTK Régészettudományi Intézet blogja (ELTE BTK Archaeological Institute blog)
