Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery in the village of Svestari in north-east Bulgaria, unearthing the astonishing remains of a complete Thracian carriage and two horses. What sets this finding apart is that the horses and carriage appear to have been buried upright, adding a unique dimension to the archaeological significance of the site.
The excavation took place in a Thracian tomb alongside other artifacts, situated in proximity to the well-known Mound of Bulgarian Khan Imurtag. Notably, this research team made headlines last year when they uncovered a hoard of gold in the same vicinity. The region has faced rampant looting of ancient mounds, despite a UNESCO ban, making this discovery particularly surprising and valuable.
Dating back 2,500 years, the carriage, equipped with two wheels, a seat, and a boot, is believed to have belonged to Thracian nobility. This assumption is supported by the presence of imported goods found in nearby graves, further emphasizing the historical significance of the find.
Professor Diana Gergova, leading the excavation and affiliated with the National Archaeology Institute at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, described the find as unique, distinguishing it from any other carriage dating from the Thracian era ever uncovered in Bulgaria.
However, the excitement over this archaeological marvel is tempered by a somber realization. The chariot was evidently placed in a narrow hole with a sloping side, enabling horses adorned with elaborate harnesses to pull it into its final resting place. Tragically, the horses were discovered still attached to their harnesses and the carriage, suggesting a ritualistic or symbolic aspect to their deaths.
The Thracians, an Indo-European tribe, left an indelible mark on history as fierce warriors and skilled horse-breeders. Mentioned in Homer’s ‘Iliad’ as allies of the Trojans during the Trojan War against the Greeks, they rose to power in the fifth century BC, establishing a formidable kingdom. This recent discovery not only adds a new layer to our understanding of Thracian culture but also raises intriguing questions about the burial practices and rituals of this ancient civilization.