Sensational golden dagger reveals the secrets of life in Thrace 5,000 years ago

The Independent, 8th August 2006

A well-preserved 5,000-year-old golden dagger recovered from a tomb in Bulgaria has been described as a "sensational" find that sheds light on the long-lost civilisation of Thrace and shows the Thracians to be sophisticated metal-workers rather than illiterate, bloodthirsty savages. The artefact, which archaeologists think dates to 3,000BC, is the latest in a series of finds in central Bulgaria that have led to the region being called the "Valley of the Thracian Kings"."It's really a sensational discovery," said Bozhidar Dimitrov, head of the Bulgarian National Museum of History. "The dagger, which we believe is made of gold and platinum, most probably belonged to a Thracian ruler or to a priest."More than 500 pieces of delicate golden jewellery were also found in the tomb, itself discovered two years ago near the village of Dubovo, 75 miles east of the capital, Sofia. The objects, unearthed over the past few weeks, have been faultlessly preserved and will soon go on public display. Read more about that here.

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