Archaeology has long been a field of study that continues to unveil fascinating insights into our shared human past. Recently, a remarkable discovery in Bulgaria has captured the attention of historians and the public alike. Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of a Thracian carriage and two horses that appear to have been buried upright, a mystery that has prompted further investigation into this ancient civilization.
The Unique Discovery
The chariot and horse skeletons, dating back 2,500 years, were found in the village of Svestari in north-east Bulgaria. Professor Diana Gergova of the National Archaeology Institute at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, who led the dig, described the find as “unique, it is not resembling any other carriage dating from the Thracian era ever uncovered in Bulgaria.”
The two-wheeled carriage and the carcasses of the horses were discovered in a Thracian tomb, along with some decorations. The discovery was particularly unexpected, as treasure hunters have previously plundered many of the ancient mounds found in the region, in search of gold, despite a UNESCO ban on such activities. The particular mound where the carriage was found is adjacent to the well-known Mound of Bulgarian Khan Imurtag, where the same research team uncovered a hoard of gold last year.
Similarities and Insights
The discovery of the carriage bears similarities to a previous find in the village of Borissvovo, Bulgaria, in 2010. A Roman chariot, complete with a seat and boot, was unearthed along with two buried horses. While this carriage was younger, dating back to the second half of the 1st century AD, it provides valuable insights into the burial practices and transportation of the Thracian nobility.
Experts believe the chariot in the recent discovery was placed in a narrow hole with a sloping side, allowing the horses, decorated with elaborate harnesses, to pull it into its final resting place. After this, the horses were killed, as evidenced by the small metal disks found on their heads, suggesting they too were wearing harnesses.
The Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of the Thracian carriage and horses has not only captured the public’s imagination but also provides valuable information about the cultural and technological advancements of the Thracian civilization. The evidence of the carriage’s construction, the presence of decorative harnesses, and the burial of the horses alongside the carriage offer a glimpse into the customs and practices of this ancient society.
The mystery of the 2,500-year-old horse remains found in Bulgaria continues to captivate archaeologists and the public alike. This remarkable discovery has shed light on the sophisticated burial practices and the transportation methods of the Thracian nobility, reminding us of the rich and complex history that lies buried beneath the surface of our modern world. As researchers continue to uncover and study these ancient treasures, we can only imagine what other secrets the Thracian civilization has yet to reveal.