Treasure of Guarrazar, Archaeological treasure site in Guadamur, Spain
The Treasure of Guarrazar is a collection of 26 votive crowns and gold crosses from the early Middle Ages, found in a fruit orchard near Toledo. These objects display advanced Visigothic metalworking with elaborate decorations and precious stones.
Farmers discovered the collection by chance between 1858 and 1861 during digging, prompting archaeological investigations of the site. The excavations revealed the remains of an ancient church and a Visigothic cemetery.
These crowns and crosses show how tightly religious belief and power were connected in early Spanish history. Visitors can see today how precious materials and skilled craftsmanship were devoted to spiritual devotion.
The site is easily reached from Toledo and the grounds are open to visitors, though it helps to prepare before your visit. The best time to visit is outside the hottest summer months when conditions are more comfortable.
King Recceswinth's crown contains blue sapphires from Sri Lanka, revealing that trade routes reached South Asia as far back as the 7th century. These imported stones are evidence of the wide-reaching connections of early medieval Spain.
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