1,700-Year-Old Roman Tomb Found in Budapest
Archaeologists in Budapest have uncovered a remarkably preserved Roman sarcophagus dating back 1,700 years. The limestone coffin was found during excavations in Óbuda, a district that once formed part of Aquincum, a Roman settlement along the Danube frontier. Unlike many ancient burials, the sarcophagus remained sealed with its stone lid secured by clamps and molten lead. When researchers lifted the cover, they revealed a complete skeleton surrounded by numerous artifacts.
Inside the tomb, archaeologists found items consistent with Roman funerary traditions. Two intact glass vessels, bronze figures, and 140 coins were placed alongside personal belongings such as a bone hair pin and amber jewelry. Traces of gold-threaded fabric and the size of the skeleton suggest the grave belonged to a young woman. According to lead archaeologist Gabriella Fényes, the objects were gifts from relatives intended for her “eternal journey.”
The burial site lies among the ruins of abandoned houses in Aquincum, which was repurposed as a cemetery in the 3rd century. Nearby discoveries included a Roman aqueduct and several simpler graves, though none matched the richness of the sealed sarcophagus. Specialists believe the young woman was of higher social status, given the quality and abundance of artifacts. Roman-period expert Gergely Kostyál emphasized the rarity of finding a sarcophagus untouched, as many were reused in later centuries.
Anthropologists will now study the remains to learn more about the woman’s age, health, and origins. Excavators also removed a layer of mud from inside the coffin, which may contain further treasures such as jewelry. The site lies within what was once the Roman province of Pannonia, close to a legionary camp that guarded the empire’s border. Aquincum itself is well known for its extensive ruins, including a large amphitheater and civilian settlement, making this discovery an important addition to Hungary’s Roman heritage.
