Mogilan mound

Mogilan Mound Overview

The Mogilan Mound, also known as Mogilanska Mound, is located in Vratsa, Bulgaria. It’s a significant archaeological site likely dating back to the 4th century BC, based on artifacts discovered there. This tumulus sits at the coordinates 43°12′3″N 23°33′3″E.

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Excavations and Discoveries

Archaeologists conducted excavations in 1965 and 1966, uncovering three stone-built tombs. Remarkably, Tomb No. 2 remained untouched. It contained a wealth of artifacts, providing crucial insights into ancient Thracian culture, particularly the practices and possessions of the Thracian elite.

Treasures of Tomb No. 2

The anteroom of Tomb No. 2 housed a chariot and a sacrificed horse. The horse’s gear featured an impressive set of silver decorations. The main chamber held a rich burial with numerous treasures. These included a gold wreath, earrings, and a gilded silver knee pad depicting the great mother goddess. Additionally, archaeologists found magic figurines, various vessels, and objects crafted from silver, bronze, and ceramics. Some vessels even bore the name of the Odrysian ruler, Cotys I. The Odrysians were a powerful Thracian group who flourished during this period, though the Thracians themselves were a collection of tribes, not a unified kingdom.

Looted Tombs

Unfortunately, the other two tombs were plundered in antiquity. However, archaeologists were still able to recover some items, such as a gold and silver jug. These looted tombs likely belonged to prominent members of a Thracian ruler dynasty, though further evidence is needed to confirm the exact lineage.

Artifact Preservation

The artifacts from these excavations are now preserved in the regional historical museum of Vratsa. They continue to be a source of valuable information on Thracian history and culture.

See Also

The Mogilan Mound adds to our understanding of Thracian culture alongside other notable Thracian sites like the Thracian tombs of Kazanlak and Sveshtari. The Valley of the Thracian Rulers and the Roman Tomb in Silistra are also significant locations. The region is further renowned for its gold wreaths and Thracian treasures.