Student Unearths an Archaeological Treasure – Discovers Three Rare 2,000-Year-Old Bronze Figurines

In July, a remarkable discovery was made at the ancient Roman site of Brigetio in Komárom, Hungary, near the Slovakian border.

A mysterious 1,600-year-old Roman burial was uncovered — the cremated remains of a warrior, ornate buckles, and unknown rituals.

First-year student Laura Zentai, who is participating in the ongoing excavations at the Roman settlement, unearthed three rare bronze figurines more than 2,000 years old.

These artifacts provide new insights into Roman military life and the technical skill of the empire along this southeastern frontier.

A 4,000-square-meter Roman villa was also discovered — complete with private baths, gardens, and hydraulic systems.

Revealing the History of Brigetio

Brigetio, located in present-day Komárom near Hungary’s border with Slovakia, was an important military settlement in the province of Pannonia from the late 1st century AD.

It served as a strategic defensive outpost protecting the northern borders of the Roman Empire, alongside the Danube River.

Excavations at Brigetio have been ongoing for decades, attracting Hungarian students and international researchers interested in Roman military architecture, daily life, and material culture.

Another major discovery included 4,000 fragments of Roman wall painting found beneath an impressive villa surrounded by columns.

This summer marked the beginning of fieldwork for Laura Zentai, a student from Mosonmagyaróvár. Although it was her first experience on an outdoor excavation, her contribution proved significant.

According to the Hungarian news agency 24.hu, Zentai discovered three bronze figurines among the ruins of a destroyed building at Brigetio.

The archaeology student Laura Zentai is taking part in the ongoing excavations and has uncovered three rare bronze figurines, estimated to be 2,000 years old.

Bronze Figurines: Decoration and Purpose

The three bronze figurines miniatures differ both in shape and in detail. Two of them depict a small human figure, while another was found in a fragmentary state.

According to a report by the news agency Kemma.hu, their intricate craftsmanship and size suggest a functional purpose, possibly serving as decorative supports at the base of a tank or storage vessel used in the Roman camp.

In Hungary, discoveries of bronze figurines of this type are rare, making this find particularly significant for understanding Roman material culture in the region.

These objects offer insights into the daily lives of Roman soldiers and the practical, artistic, and symbolic elements they incorporated into their surroundings.

The archaeology student Laura Zentai is taking part in the ongoing excavations and has brought to light three rare bronze figurines, estimated to be 2,000 years old.

The Importance for Roman Archaeology and Local Cultural Heritage

Moreover, the discovery of the figurines enriches our understanding of the infrastructure of Brigetio and its role within the defensive system along the borders of the Roman Empire.

As a major military center in Pannonia, Brigetio was home to legionaries and auxiliary troops responsible for securing the empire’s frontiers and maintaining control over the Danube border.

The findings also highlight the active role that students play in archaeological research conducted in Hungary.

Zentai’s discovery demonstrates how new generations of archaeologists contribute to uncovering valuable information, expanding the historical narrative of Roman military settlements.

The three bronze miniature figurines differ in shape and detail, with one depicting a small human figure, while another was found in a fragmentary condition.

A Bright Future for Excavations in Roman Pannonia

Laura Zentai describes her first excavation as a “dreamlike experience,” emphasizing the excitement she felt as she uncovered artifacts of immeasurable value at the very beginning of her career.

Excavations at Brigetio are ongoing, and archaeologists hope that future discoveries will shed further light on the social, military, and economic aspects of life in Roman Pannonia.

These continuous archaeological efforts not only advance scientific understanding but also inspire students and history enthusiasts who seek to explore the past.

Such discoveries contribute to preserving and showcasing Hungary’s rich archaeological heritage, connecting local communities with their ancient roots.