In the village of Mikułowice, Poland, a metal detectorist named Patryk Chmielewski has uncovered a partially complete set of Hussar armor.
Credit: Marek Florek / Ministerstwo Nauki i Szkolnictwa Wyższego
Hussars, renowned as light cavalry regiments, played pivotal roles in European conflicts during the late 16th and 17th centuries. Originating from medieval Hungary, Hussars were pivotal in battles against the Ottoman Empire and in various campaigns across Western Europe, including serving under Habsburg emperors as mercenaries.
Chmielewski’s find, unearthed at a depth of about 60 cm, includes significant components such as a breastplate, backplate, shoulder pad, forearm bracers, and a helmet with two cheekpieces. However, the cuirᴀss, crucial for protecting the chest and back, was absent, indicating the incomplete nature of the armor. Archaeologists from the Sandomierz branch of the Provincial Office for the Protection of Monuments confirmed the authenticity of the discovery, which will be conserved before being displayed at the Castle Museum in Sandomierz.
“The Hussars, as a type of cavalry, were present in the Polish army from the 16th century to almost the end of the 18th century,” explained a researcher from the Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (UMCS) in Lublin. “Based on the shape of the helmet, we can reasonably ᴀssess that the armor comes from the first half of the 17th century.”
However, the absence of certain decorative elements typical of Hussar armor suggests a local workshop origin, possibly commissioned by a wealthy nobleman rather than for a common soldier, as noted by the archaeologists.
Chmielewski, known for sharing his treasure-hunting adventures online, documented his discovery on YouTube. His video, posted on March 29, captured the excavation process, showcasing the excitement of unearthing such a significant piece of history.
The armor’s corrosion, accumulated over centuries buried in the soil, presents challenges for accurate dating and preservation. However, once restored, the Hussar armor will contribute invaluable insights into Poland’s military past and the craftsmanship of its artisans.
