Lead Venus Figurine, Bronze Mirror, and Celtic Weapons Unearthed Near Pilisszentiván and Erdőbénye, Hungary

Archaeological Discoveries at Pilisszentiván

According to НВ — Техно: In the ancient Roman settlement of Pilisszentiván-Gars-erdő, located northwest of present-day Budapest, archaeologists have uncovered a small lead figurine of Venus Pudica. This remarkable artifact represents the earliest direct evidence of religious practices in the area. Excavations, led by Bence Simon from the Department of Ancient Archaeology at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), spanned four seasons, concluding on September 23, 2026.

The lead figurine was detected using a metal detector. Previous finds at the site include:

• stone structures
• pottery shards
• tools
• coins

Notably, Building E was found to be larger than initially estimated and was abandoned around the early 3rd century AD. In the northern area of the dig, an undisturbed collapse layer was uncovered containing numerous pottery fragments alongside a pair of iron tongs. The 2026 season also yielded a bronze mirror decorated with intricate patterns, various iron tools, brooches, and additional coins.

Findings Near Erdőbénye

In a nearby region close to Erdőbénye, archaeologists discovered a Celtic spear and a complete Iron Age shield. These items provide strong evidence of Celtic communities inhabiting northeastern Hungary. Both professional archaeologists and dedicated volunteers have been collaborating on long-term studies of the ancient landscape in this area.

The Pilisszentiván discoveries are crucial not only for shedding light on the religious life of Roman settlements but also for understanding the cultural exchanges between Romans and Celts.

These finds highlight the complexity and diversity of social structures in the region, offering fresh insights into the historical evolution and cultural heritage of ancient Hungarian territories. Such research is vital for appreciating the layered history of Central Europe.

The recent findings in Pilisszentiván not only illuminate the religious practices of ancient Roman settlements but also connect to the broader narrative of Celtic influence in the region. For those interested in exploring how these unique artifacts, such as a Celtic spear and shield, reveal the interactions between different cultures, further details can be found in our related coverage.