Russian archaeologists have uncovered the grave of a wealthy Scythian princess in Crimea, dating back to the first century AD, adorned with a vast array of gold jewellery and artefacts.
The princess, believed to have lived around the same time as Christ, was buried with 140 items, including earrings, a necklace, and gold plaques.
Notably, she wore a laurel wreath of eight gold leaves, symbolizing her high status in ancient society.
Among the treasures found were two gold rings, one featuring a glass ‘gem’ and the other adorned with an image of Eros and a dog carved into translucent carnelian.
The grave also contained glass beads, a jug, an incense burner, and frankincense, suggesting elaborate burial customs.
The discovery, made at the Ust-Alminsky site, sheds light on the Scythian culture, known for their mastery of mounted warfare and elaborate burial rituals.
The significance of the find rivals that of another famous haul from the same necropolis.
The collection, insured for £1.7 million, has sparked a legal dispute between Ukraine and the Netherlands over ownership.
With both collections considered priceless, they offer valuable insights into the rich heritage of the Scythian civilization.