The Veliko Tarnovo Regional Museum of History in Bulgaria has unveiled significant discoveries from Roman tombs unearthed near the village of Nova Varbovka in late 2023. The artifacts, including jewelry, coins, and vessels, date back to the early 3rd century CE.
Medallion of Emperor Caracalla found in Bulgaria. Credit: Veliko Tarnovo Regional Museum of History
These tombs, accidentally discovered by a local farmer while plowing his fields, yielded treasures indicative of the high social status of the deceased. Among the finds is a bronze medallion depicting Emperor Caracalla, minted in Pergamon in 214 CE, showcasing his visit to seek healing from the god Asclepius. The medallion’s inscription, in ancient Greek, adds to its historical significance.
Archaeologists Kalin Chakarov and Nedko Elenski, along with museum specialist Michaela Tomanova, conducted excavations, revealing two stone tombs likely belonging to the same affluent family. One tomb contained the remains of a child, while the other housed two adults—a man aged 50-60 and a woman aged 45-49. Nadezhda Atanᴀssova from the National Insтιтute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology, and Anthropology determined their genders and ages.
The grave goods found alongside the deceased suggest their wealth and status. In the adult tomb, gold earrings, a gilt pendant, and a silver-plated fibula were discovered, along with a silver coin from Laodicea. Similarly, the child’s tomb contained gold earrings, glᴀss bead jewelry, and ceremonial vessels, including a wine amphora and glᴀss lacrimaria.
Other objects found in Roman tombs in Bulgaria. Credit: Veliko Tarnovo Regional Museum of History
It is believed that these individuals had a rustic villa in the region and were part of the elite who divided their time between rural estates and the city, as evidenced by studies on the ancient city of Nicopolis ad Istrum.
According to Chakarov, the elaborate construction of the tombs, with fine porcelain plaster lining the walls, suggests significant financial resources. This further supports the notion that the deceased were of high social standing, possibly serving as prominent residents of Nicopolis ad Istrum.
The artifacts provide valuable insights into Roman society and burial customs in the region during the 3rd century CE. Todor Iliev, the mayor of Nova Varbovka, initially alerted authorities, leading to emergency archaeological excavations. While DNA analysis of the skeletons has not yet been conducted, anthropological evidence suggests a familial connection among the buried individuals.
More information: Veliko Tarnovo Regional Museum of History
