In a remarkable find that is rewriting the history of ancient Dacian presence in central Romania, a hoard of silver artifacts has been discovered near the commune of Breaza in Mureș County. The discovery, made by amateur metal detectorists Dionisie-Aurel Moldovan and Sebastian-Adrian Zăhan, is the first definite evidence of a Dacian settlement in the area.
The treasure, currently in the possession of the Museum of Mureș County, comprises six richly elaborated silver ornaments: a broad bracelet adorned with a vegetal composition, three fibulae (brooches), a neck-chain with pendants of nail-shaped design, and a belt formed from alternating oval and ring-shaped plates, featuring a rectangular plaque with decorative solar motifs. Weighing approximately 550 grams, the pieces are thought to have belonged to someone high up in Dacian society, likely from the aristocracy.
Of the impressive pieces, the silver bracelet stands out, its terminal flares adorned tastefully in vegetal motifs—an artistic element characteristic of Dacian metalwork. The fibulae include a pair of elongated, undecorated pieces with diamond-shaped plates and a third, smaller brooch featuring four rounded knobs. There is also a loop ending at the neck chain holding three small nail-like pendants, adding a ceremonial quality to the collection. Meanwhile, the oval plates of the belt and solar plaque indicate the symbolic value of the sun in Dacian religion and culture.
The find also has archaeologists and historians wondering what it was originally used for. Was it an offering to some forgotten deity? Or a secret cache in a time of crisis? Though definitive answers are not available, experts agree that this kind of practice was common in ancient times—acts of devotion or desperation that left their trace in the earth.
The significance of this find is not limited to the artifacts themselves. Until now, no material evidence of Dacian settlements had been found in the Breaza region. This hoard not only affirms their presence but also provides fascinating information about the culture and social dynamics of the Dacians in this part of ancient Dacia, which corresponds roughly to modern-day Romania and Moldova.
Officials confirmed that Moldovan and Zăhan reported the discovery in full accordance with cultural heritage protection laws. The silver items have been documented and will be subject to further research before being put on display in future exhibitions at the Mureș County Museum.
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