In Poland, around 200 metallic objects, including a gilded spur, jewelry and an ornament bearing the likeness of a local lord were found.
The find, made in a hamlet dating from the 11th century, has been described as "
rare
" for the period and for this region in the center of the country.
According to the archaeologist in charge of the excavations, Jakub Affelski, such remains are usually found in fortified villages.
One of the metal objects found at Poniaty Wielkie.
Jakub Affelski
So why have so many metallic objects, of such value in addition, been deposited in Poniaty Wielkie, a village located north of Warsaw?
This is the question the archaeologist is now asking himself.
“
There is nothing to suggest that this was the result of an invasion, we found nothing that suggests an armed conflict.
This is still a big puzzle for us,
”explains Jakub Affelski.
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Although traces of human presence dating from the Middle Ages had already been noted there, no large-scale archaeological research had been carried out in the region until last year.
But in 2019 and 2020, archaeologists discovered the remains of a ceramic kiln, pits for storing objects, and wells.
They contained many metal and ceramic objects.
“
Such wealth is rare in open hamlets from this period, in this part of Mazovia and beyond,
” explains Jakub Affelski.
Among the objects of particular interest is a lead plate covered with an ornament made from a copper alloy.
The work is of remarkable quality and finesse, according to the archaeologist.
Ears, eyes, beard and hair ... All these details are visible.
After consulting with experts from the Polish Academy of Sciences, Affleski believes that this object was characteristic of the remains found on the Eurasian border, where nomadic tribes lived.
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Archaeologists at work at Poniaty Wielkie.
Jakub Affelski
Another unusual find made on the site, a neckline.
It is a cross worn on the chest by Christians and containing relics or quotes from the Bible.
Even if the village was located within the Polish territory of then, many vestiges come from territories located further east, including Ruthenia.
All will be analyzed so that their exact provenance can be established.
According to Jakub Affelski, the village of Poniaty Wielkie could have fulfilled several functions, including that of being a place of metallurgical production.
Evidenced by the presence of pieces of metal and unfinished objects.
Numerous metal seals suggest that this was a large-scale business.
All the objects will join the collections of the Pultusk Regional Museum, where they will be exhibited.