AV 66, 2015: Polona BITENC, Timotej KNIFIC

ARHEOLOŠKI VESTNIK

ARHEOLOŠKI VESTNIK 66, 2015

Polona BITENC, Timotej KNIFIC

Early medieval ironwork hoards from the Gorjanci Hills, Stari grad above Unec and Ljubična above Zbelovska Gora

Abstract

The article discusses the early medieval ironwork hoards from Slovenia, particularly the four hoard finds from Camberk above Cerov Log, Stari grad above Unec, Ljubična above Zbelovska Gora, and Zidani gaber above Mihovo. The objects in them were originally connected to three activities: farming, crafts, and warfare. In terms of function, we can distinguish between agricultural implements, woodworking tools, blacksmith’s tools, riding and horse gear, weaponry, multipurpose tools, ingots and lumps of iron. In terms of composition, the hoards can be divided into three groups: tool hoards, horse gear hoards, and hoards of varied composition. The objects in them have survived in varied conditions (either complete or damaged objects). The hoards were buried at different locations (within a settlement, along communication routes). Taking into consideration all these criteria and close analogies, primarily from Slovakia and the Czech Republic, it can be observed that the hoards from Slovenia form part of a wider phenomenon in south-eastern and part of central Europe ranging from the late 8th to the first half of the 10th centuries.

Keywords: Slovenia, Early Middle Ages, hoard finds, tools, weapons, horse gear, riding gear, ingots

Article (pdf)