Preslav Treasure, Medieval jewelry collection in Veliki Preslav, Bulgaria.
The Preslav Treasure is a medieval jewelry collection made of gold and silver, housed at the Museum of Archaeology in Veliki Preslav, Bulgaria. The collection holds around 170 objects attributed to the First Bulgarian Empire.
Farm workers found the treasure in 1978 near Veliki Preslav, where it had been hidden during the conflicts of 969 to 972. Those years brought heavy pressure from Byzantine forces onto the region.
The jewelry shows techniques such as granulation, filigree work, and colored enamel that are visible to the naked eye on individual pieces. This level of craft was reserved for a small number of skilled artisans working during the height of the First Bulgarian Empire.
The pieces are displayed in cases at the Veliki Preslav Museum of Archaeology, allowing a close look at fine details. It is worth setting aside enough time for the visit, as the collection rewards careful attention.
The main necklace in the collection is made of 13 gold tablets and seven medallions with religious images, including depictions of the Virgin Mary. An object of this kind was likely worn only by someone at the very top of society at that time.
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