The mysterious woman’s ancient tomb was surprisingly intact among five other tombs that were severely looted, even though she was surrounded by a treasure trove.
According to the Museum of Eastern Bohemia in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic, archaeologists have “struck gold” both literally and figuratively.
A silver keychain inlaid with gold after restoration – Photo: East Bohemia Museum
The excavation, which began in 2019, researched six ancient tombs built in the late 5th century AD. However, 5 out of 6 tombs have been seriously damaged by grave robbers over the years, leaving almost nothing but intact remains.
The big mystery lies in the last grave, determined to be that of a woman who died when she was 35-50 years old. Her tomb is completely intact and full of valuable antiques, including many items made of gold, silver, and precious stones. The team spent months analyzing and cataloging this 1,600-year-old treasure trove.
Artifacts when newly excavated – Photo: Museum of East Bohemia
According to Acient Origins, the woman’s precious burial items were quite diverse: an elaborate headdress decorated with many gold plates, 4 gold-plated silver keychains, encrusted with many gems, beautiful clasps. The fabric still attached may belong to a large cloth or coat that she was wearing when she passed away… In addition, there are many objects that may have been associated with her in life: a ceramic pot with traces of cooking. meat, a bone comb, iron knife and many decorative glass beads, especially the remains of an unidentified pet lying next to it.
The burial with gold and silver jewelry shows that this Bohemian woman may have had a high status when she was alive. She was also respected, so she brought with her to the other world a great fortune at that time. Given their age, the treasure becomes even more valuable in this day and age.
One of the utensils buried with the dead – Photo: Museum of East Bohemia
All the skeletons of the other five graves are from 16-55, possibly indicating that it was a family burial site. 1 in 5 people have signs of cancer in the skull and pelvis. One skeleton still shows signs of arthritis. It is unclear whether they were buried with lavish burial items like the woman, because these tombs were all repeatedly and thoroughly looted. The reason why the woman’s grave was not violated by grave robbers is a big mystery, because her grave is not hidden or has anything special compared to the rest of the graves.
