Exciting new archaeological findings have revealed an extraordinary collection of gold and silver jewelry from 1,600 years ago, uncovering the sophisticated tastes of aristocratic women in ancient Crimea. The discoveries, made at the Almalyk-Dere necropolis on the Mangup Plateau near Sevastopol, include a range of stunning adornments such as ornate gold earrings, brooches, and belt buckles, offering a rare glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the region’s elite during the 4th to 6th centuries CE.
The wealth and high status of the individuals buried at this site are evident from the remarkable jewelry pieces discovered by a team of archaeologists, including experts from the Crimean Federal University. According to Valery Naumenko, Acting Dean of the Faculty of History, “Despite the extensive looting of these burial grounds, the artifacts recovered are a significant contribution to our understanding of ancient luxury craftsmanship.”
Among the finds, the gold earrings featuring garnet or carnelian inlays stand out, showcasing the advanced metalworking skills of the time. These earrings, alongside other pieces like fibulas and belt buckles, offer insight into the fashion trends of the period, which were influenced by both local artisans and international trade routes. Artur Nabokov, an archaeologist from the Institute of Archaeology of Crimea, notes, “The earrings likely came from abroad, further emphasizing the elite status of the women who wore them.”
Also discovered was a rare “pyxis,” an intricately crafted cylindrical container made from animal horn, thought to have been used to store cosmetics—a reflection of the personal care and luxury enjoyed by these women. The excellent preservation of many of these objects, including even crushed gold earrings, has allowed researchers to carefully restore and study the artifacts.
The Mangup Plateau, a historically rich region, is also home to the Mangup Kale fortress and other key archaeological sites, spanning several millennia of human occupation. Excavations at the Almalyk-Dere necropolis, the largest early medieval burial site in the region, continue to shed light on the cultural and social structures of the Gothia principality, which thrived in this area during the early medieval period.
This new wave of discoveries, led by the Mangup Archaeological Expedition, underscores the significance of the necropolis as a burial ground for the privileged elite of ancient Crimea. As researchers continue to delve into the layers of history at the site, each excavation promises to uncover even more fascinating details about this lost world.
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