Rare Artifact to Be Displayed at the Hungarian National Museum

A rare Bronze Age artifact will be displayed at the Hungarian National Museum from October 5. Discovered on Somló Hill (northern region of Lake Balaton) this summer by the museum’s archaeologists, this treasure dates back to the Late Bronze Age (1000-850 BC).

According to the Museum’s official website, the artifact assemblage includes a unique necklace found in an urn-style jar alongside thousands of bronze jewelry pieces, such as hoops, dowels, beads, and spirals. This exquisite jewelry likely belonged to an elite woman of the period, reflecting the intricate craftsmanship of the time.

The necklace’s design aligns with the gold-foil-covered bronze diadems and ornamental discs from the urnfield culture of Transdanubia, linking it to broader patterns of goldsmithery in west-central Europe.

Such finds are typically not associated with burials, indicating that the artifact’s original context remains a mystery.

In a letter, volunteer archaeologist Krisztián Király, who found the artifact, recounts an exhilarating day of exploration on Somló Hill. Reflecting on his previous outing, he was determined to return, stating, “let’s do it again!” After an hour and a half of metal detecting, his tool indicated a deeper signal. Carefully excavating by hand, he uncovered a bronze bracelet, followed by another, leading to an overwhelming sense of euphoria.

Mr. Király praised the meticulous work of the National Museum archaeologists, noting,

I had the privilege of being there when they opened this practically 3000-year-old time capsule,” revealing a gold foil-covered necklace among other artifacts.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity and respect for his fellow volunteers, emphasizing the strength of community archaeology and the success of their collaborative efforts over the past year and a half.

The unveiling of this artifact is significant, as it offers valuable insights into the cultural and social dynamics of Bronze Age Europe. Its display, as the treasure of the month in Széchényi Hall, will highlight the craftsmanship and artistic expression of the era, enriching our understanding of ancient societies and their practices.

Via mnm.hu; Featured Image: © Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum / Jaksity Iván