Archaeologists Uncover Rare Suleiman Artifacts
Unearthed Gold-Plated Cutlery of Ottoman Elite Found in Hungary
In a groundbreaking discovery, gold-plated cutlery believed to be used by the medieval Ottoman elite has been unearthed for the first time in Hungary. The discovery was made around the mausoleum of Suleiman I, also known as Suleiman the Magnificent (1491-1566), in Turbék, a settlement established by the Ottomans in the 16th and 17th centuries near Szigetvár, southwestern Hungary.
Norbert Pap, a professor of historical geography at the University of Pécs and the head of the research team, emphasized the significance of the research on the mausoleum of Suleiman I and its connection to the defender of the castle, Miklós IV Zrínyi (Nikola IV Zrinski). The search for the tomb complex began in 2013 with the support of the Turkish government and later received funding from the Hungarian state.
The excavations, which started this summer, aim to determine the extent, structure, and character of the former Ottoman settlement, providing valuable data for the planning of an archaeological park. The findings indicate that Turbék was a significant settlement established in the 16th century, comparable in size to contemporary towns in the region.
One of the most remarkable discoveries includes Ottoman cutlery, a rare item of tableware used exclusively by the elite at the time. These objects, never found before in Hungary, suggest regular visits by the Ottoman imperial elite to Turbék.
The preservation and development of historical monuments in the Szigetvár region have been a priority for the Hungarian government, with significant investments made in recent years. Commemorations of the Siege of Szigetvár have brought together Hungarians and Turks, highlighting the shared historical legacy between the two nations.
Gülşen Karanis, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Budapest, praised the collaboration between Hungarian and Turkish researchers in uncovering the tomb of Suleiman I and continuing excavations of the Turkish settlement. The findings not only contribute to historical research but also strengthen the cultural ties between Hungary and Turkey.
Overall, the discovery of the gold-plated cutlery and other valuable objects sheds light on the rich history of the Ottoman presence in Hungary and reinforces the importance of preserving and celebrating this shared heritage.
