Discovering a gold-plated sword in a tomb of the ancient warrior

The team of scientists found the weapon and jewelry in the 2,600-year-old tomb of a young warrior.

The short sword and some items found in the tomb.(Photo: Ancient Pages).

Hennadiy Toshchev and Svitlana Andrukh, two experts leading the archaeological delegation of the National University of Zaporizhzhia, held a press conference to announce new findings at the cemetery in the city of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Ukraine, on October 26. Initially, the archaeological team discovered a groove containing animal bones and pieces of ancient vessels. This is a remnant of the Scythian rite and mourning ritual and a number of other ancient cultures.

Upon further excavation, the team discovered a large grave in the center and a smaller grave. They decided to clean the small tomb first. This process takes about three days. While cleaning the tomb, they found a gray clay vase and remains of a 18-20 year old boy, most likely a Scythian warrior who could ride a horse.

Archaeologists also found iron axes, bronze arrows, animal bones, and bridle buckles. The most interesting artifact is a short sword with gilded scabbard and hilt. The hilt has many ridges. In addition to weapons, young warriors are also buried with a number of jewelry such as beads, red deer tooth necklace, gold earrings, gold pendants.

This tomb is adjacent to a much larger tomb and was once visited by thieves. The team found arrowheads and some bone fragments in the large tomb. This is the burial ground of an old man, possibly the leader escorted by the young warrior.

Experts identify two tombs dating from about the 6th century BC. The newly discovered artifacts will be kept at the Local History Museum in Kamianets-Dniprovsky.

1. Ancient tombs 3,000 years may contain the treasure of Prince Scythia