Archaeologists discovered a medieval temple in the area of Gluhite kamani near Lyubimets, BNR reported.
Before the team of archaeologists could examine the church, however, treasure hunters blew up the center and destroyed the valuable frescoes.
“The foundations of the medieval church lie on earlier buildings, which, we assume, refer to the early Christian period, also a church,” said the head Veselka Katsarova.
According to her, the plan of the medieval church repeats that of the earlier one.
“The early church is so far a little problematic for dating, but it is probably from the 5th – 6th century, since we find fragments of marble slabs and columns that surrounded the pre-altar space. It is characteristic, in principle, of the earlier Christian period,” he added. Veselka Katsarova.
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## Treasure Hunters Destroy Medieval Temple in Bulgaria: A Fundraising Travesty or a Necessary Evil?
**Intro:**
A devastating discovery has rocked the archaeological world. In the Gluhite kamani region near Lyubimets, Bulgaria, archaeologists uncovered the foundations of a medieval church, believed to be built atop an even earlier Christian structure dating back to the 5th or 6th century. Tragically, before the team could fully investigate the site, treasure hunters blasted the center of the ancient church, obliterating intricate frescoes and leaving irreplaceable history in ruins.
This act has sparked fiery debate among archaeologists, historians, and the public: Is the insatiable quest for profit responsible for the destruction of our past, or is it simply a consequence of inadequate protection for vulnerable historical sites?
Today, we bring together three specialists to discuss this heartbreaking incident and explore the complex issues surrounding the balance of preservation, research, and the commercial allure of ancient treasures.
**Moderator:**
Welcome to today’s panel discussion. We have with us Dr. Maria Petrova, a renowned archaeologist who has dedicated her career to preserving Bulgaria’s rich cultural heritage. Joining her is Mr. Stefan Ivanov, a historian specializing in the Byzantine era, who believes that certain artifacts hold great historical and cultural relevance that justifies their study and, in some cases, commercial value. And representing the perspective of local communities, we have Ms. Elena Georgieva, a sociologist who focuses on the socio-economic impact of archaeological discoveries on Bulgarian villages.
Dr. Petrova, let’s start with you. This recent incident at Gluhite kamani is a tragedy for the field. How do you feel about the destruction of this medieval church?
**Dr. Petrova:** This is more than a tragedy; it’s a criminal act. These treasure hunters, driven by greed and devoid of any respect for our history, have caused irreparable damage. The frescoes, potentially containing unique artistic styles and historical narratives, are gone forever. This isn’t just about broken stones; it’s about the obliteration of a tangible link to our past.
**Moderator:** Mr. Ivanov, you’ve argued in the past that antiquities can hold immense historical value, and sometimes, their commercialization can actually aid in their preservation. Do you see any arguments in favour of the treasure hunters’ actions, however misguided they may have been?
**Mr. Ivanov:** I understand the outrage and grief expressed by Dr. Petrova and share her sorrow for the loss at Gluhite kamani. However, the reality is that many archaeological sites simply don’t receive adequate funding and attention. In some cases, the commercialization of artifacts, done ethically and transparently, can provide the resources needed for proper excavation and preservation.
**Moderator:** Ms. Georgieva, as a sociologist, you’ve witnessed the impact of archaeological finds on local communities. Do you believe this incident reflects a wider socio-economic issue?
**Ms. Georgieva:** Absolutely. Many rural communities in Bulgaria struggle economically. When rumors of valuable treasures surface, it can create a sense of desperation, leading individuals to take drastic measures. The government needs to invest more in these communities, create economic opportunities, and provide adequate security for archaeological sites to prevent such tragedies from repeating.
**Moderator:** This is a complex issue with no easy answers. We need to strike a balance between preserving our past, supporting local communities, and addressing the economic incentives that can lead to the destruction of our heritage.
We invite our viewers to join the conversation and share their perspectives on this crucial topic.
