A medieval necropolis has been unearthed at the construction site of a new bus station in Sozopol, a historic town along Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. The local municipality announced this remarkable discovery, which spans an area of 30 meters in width and 20 meters in length. At the northeastern corner, archaeologists have identified a stone structure, likely a dwelling from the 12th or 13th century, currently under investigation by a team led by Yavor Ivanov, head of the excavation, and Dimitar Nedev, director of the Archaeological Museum in Sozopol.
Among the significant artifacts uncovered are two lead seals from the 13th century, adorned with images of saints and inscriptions likely related to correspondence among high-ranking clergy. The necropolis also reveals a series of burials and reburials to the south of the site. Ivanov noted the practice of layering burials, often placing newer remains atop older ones, reflecting the importance of familial ties in medieval Sozopol.
Excavations have revealed several well-preserved skeletons, including those of children and an infant, all oriented with their heads facing west in accordance with Christian tradition. Artifacts like ceramic fragments, coins, and iron nails have been found, alongside a mysterious structure made from rubble stones. Current excavations have reached a depth of about three meters, and Ivanov is optimistic about uncovering even older remains, potentially dating back to the 4th century and artifacts from the late Hellenistic period. This discovery not only enhances our understanding of medieval life in Sozopol but also highlights the town’s rich historical narrative.
