In the historic land of Metsamor, Armenia, a team of Polish and Armenian archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery – a “golden tomb” dating back to the era of Ramesses II of Egypt. This tomb, containing two skeletons, believed to be a couple, adds a new chapter to the rich tapestry of Armenian history.
The Golden Tomb: A Glimpse into Ancient Wealth
During their meticulous excavations, the team unearthed three exquisite gold necklaces in the grave. These artifacts, along with the remains of a man and a woman, suggest the high status of the individuals. The tomb, a cist grave, was carefully constructed with chambers lined with large stones and also contained the remnants of a wooden burial bed.
The Mystery of the Deceased
Professor Krzysztof Jakubiak, the head of the research project from the University of Warsaw, expressed the enigmatic nature of the couple’s death. Their simultaneous demise remains a mystery, with no signs of the tomb being reopened. The well-preserved bones, with slightly crouched legs, indicated that the couple passed away in their 30s or 40s.
Riches Unrobbed: A Rarity in Archaeology
The preservation and richness of the grave are extraordinary, as noted by Professor Jakubiak. Over a hundred beads, gold pendants resembling Celtic crosses, and numerous carnelian pendants were found, likely forming three necklaces. This discovery underscores the uniqueness and unrobbed state of this grave.
Beyond Jewelry: A Cultural Melting Pot
The grave also held a dozen complete ceramic vessels and a remarkable faience flask, not native to the region but from the Syrian-Mesopotamian borderland. This suggests a cultural exchange and the extensive network of the inhabitants of Metsamor.
Metsamor: An Archaeological Enigma
Metsamor, a significant archaeological site from the V-I century BC, is renowned for its Bronze-Iron Age settlement, including a citadel, city districts, and a celestial observation platform. However, the lack of literacy among its inhabitants has left no texts, making their identification challenging.
The Significance of the Settlement
Professor Jakubiak highlights the significance of Metsamor as a major fortified settlement of its time. Its grand fortifications and the so-called citadel on the hill stand as testaments to its historical importance.
The discovery of the golden tomb in Metsamor not only sheds light on the ancient civilizations that once thrived in Armenia but also opens new avenues for understanding the cultural and historical connections of the region. This find is a testament to the rich and multifaceted history of Armenia, offering insights into a past that continues to intrigue and fascinate historians and archaeologists alike.
Artatsolum
Source: arkeonews.net
