What's Happening?
Archaeologists in Hungary have uncovered the 1,100-year-old burials of three elite male warriors near the village of Akasztó. DNA analysis revealed that the men were related, possibly along paternal lines.
The burials contained weapons such as a saber and a bow with arrows, as well as coins from northern Italy dating back to the reign of King Berengar. The discovery was made by volunteers from the Katona József Museum's community archaeology program, led by Wilhelm Gábor. The warriors were buried in the 920s or 930s, and the findings suggest they were part of an elite warrior group, possibly involved in military campaigns in northern Italy.
Why It's Important?
This discovery provides significant insights into the social and military structures of early medieval Europe, particularly in Hungary. The presence of Italian coins suggests trade or military connections between Hungary and Italy during this period. The findings also highlight the advanced craftsmanship and cultural practices of the time, as evidenced by the ornate weapons and jewelry found with the warriors. Understanding these connections can shed light on the broader geopolitical dynamics of medieval Europe and the role of warrior elites in shaping historical events.
