Ancient warrior burial found intact in North Macedonia

Archaeologists in North Macedonia have uncovered a richly furnished burial from the sixth century BCE, with a helmet, shield, sword and spears in an undisturbed setting. The discovery confirms that Rasnica, near the village of Koroshishta in the Struga area, is an ancient cemetery rather than an isolated grave.

Presented by the National Archaeological Museum on 5 October, the finds include bronze vessels, a gold ring, a silver pin and amber and glass beads. Researchers say the combination of weapons and precious objects points to someone of high social standing with an important military role.

One intriguing find is a sheet of gold foil discovered beside the shield. Archaeologists think it may have covered the deceased’s face, serving as a kind of funerary mask. Conservation and laboratory work are still needed to establish its form and purpose.

The grave follows another richly furnished burial discovered at Rasnica in 2024. Planned analysis of the skeletal remains could establish the person’s age at death and sex, identify signs of illness and explore whether the two individuals were related.

The museum plans systematic excavations, while heritage officials intend to seek government support for sustained research and protection of the site.