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During preliminary investigations for a future highway in the eastern part of the Czech Republic, an archaeological expedition has made an unprecedented discovery. They have unearthed a Celtic settlement dating back over 2,200 years, making it one of the oldest known Celtic habitation sites in Central Europe.

The discovered oppidum spans an extensive area of 25 hectares and, according to scholarly conjecture, was home to the Boii tribe, whose name is believed to be the origin of the historical region of Bohemia. Researchers propose that this was not merely a village but a large agglomeration that served as a significant center for trade and production in the 2nd century BCE. However, evidence suggests that this prosperous settlement declined by the 1st century BCE.

Archaeologist Matúš Holas underscored the exceptional importance of this site, noting its pivotal economic and social role. He also drew attention to the absence of signs of violent destruction, which suggests a gradual decline of the settlement, possibly caused by economic or environmental factors.

Over 13,000 artifacts have been recovered during the excavations, an exceptionally large collection for a Celtic site in Central Europe. Among the numerous finds, a significant number of gold and silver coins stand out. The discovery of molds for their minting indicates that the coins were produced directly on-site, testifying to the high status and significance of the oppidum in the region. The collection is further enriched by luxury items, diverse pottery, and fragments of metal vessels and mirrors.

ORIENT

Photo: Museum of Eastern Bohemia in Hradec Králové / University of Hradec Králové