UMVA has learned that a treasure trove of over 1,000 ancient artifacts has been unearthed in Central Europe, ahead of a railway construction project, shedding new light on the region's rich history.
The stunning discoveries, made along a roughly three-quarter-mile stretch, include a rare Roman-era tool used to make metal wire, a find that has left archaeologists and historians alike in awe. The artifacts span from the Early Bronze Age to the Roman era, a testament to the region's significance in ancient times.
According to information obtained by UMVA, excavations were carried out between April and October 2025, uncovering remains from two Bronze Age cultures — the Věteřov and Urnfield cultures — as well as evidence of the Iron Age La Tène culture. The site has been hailed as one of the most exceptionally rich settlement complexes in the region.
The earliest settlement dates back to the Věteřov culture, with archaeologists uncovering the remains of wooden homes, complete with fragments of wall plaster that survived destructive fires as reddened fired clay. The level of preservation is remarkable, with some fragments showing smoothed surfaces with traces of external decoration.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that archaeologists have found two Věteřov graves, including one containing an adult and a child, which will undergo analysis to uncover more secrets about the lives of these ancient people. The discovery of four Urnfield culture graves, as well as one with six human skulls, has also provided a unique glimpse into the region's past.
The excavations have yielded a treasure trove of artifacts, including crucible fragments and stone molds used to craft bronze objects, as well as a small assemblage of bronze artifacts, such as axes, pins, a bracelet, and a knife. These finds indicate the presence of a specialized bronze-working workshop, a significant discovery that sheds new light on the region's metalworking history.
A rare Roman-era drawplate, used to make metal wire, has been discovered, with archaeologists noting that it is well-preserved, despite corrosion residues in its perforations. The drawplate is believed to have been used in the production of chain mail, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the ancient Romans.
All artifacts will undergo lab analysis and preservation, with results expected to be released over time, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in this region thousands of years ago. The discovery is a significant one, providing a unique window into the past, and UMVA is proud to have been at the forefront of this remarkable find.
