Back in time! Ancient helmet dating back 2,500 years unearthed by Archaeologists in Croatia

The subject of our world's history is both intriguing and enigmatic; it unlocks the mysteries of our ancient past and gives us a peek at what was or might have been. A 2,500-year-old metal helmet that was presumably used in a cult has been found by researchers.  According to reports on the Live Science website, the helmet was found within an Illyrian burial mound in Croatia. It is thought to be a cult practice offering. At the Gomile archeological site, the antique artifact was discovered enclosed in a stone construction within a burial mount.

University and research

The excavation's head, Hrvoje Potrebica, a professor of archaeology at the University of Zagreb, estimates that it took place sometime between the fourth and the end of the sixth century BC. According to additional claims, the Gomile site is located close to the Adriatic Sea, close to the settlement of Zakotorac, and comprises of multiple burial mounds. "Each mound contains many graves, and each grave contains multiple burials," said Potrebica in addition.

Illyrian connection!

The Illyrians are a group of people that are mentioned in Greek historical accounts. They are said to have inhabited the area around the same time as the ancient helmet. Further details reveal that the Illyrians were divided into several tribes and even had kingdoms, but between 229 and 168 BC, the Romans waged numerous wars against them until ultimately subduing them. Potrebica is certain that the helmet "looks to be in pristine shape," but the conservation process is still pending. The helmet was discovered by the researchers affixed to a stone structure, set apart from the other tombs within the burial mound. 

Probe goes on! 

According to Potrebica, this is why it is thought to be a "votive offering to deceased ancestors or part of some cult rite tied to the whole mound and not [a] particular individual or a tomb." A member of the excavation crew named Domagoj Perkić stated that it could have had a psychological effect on the opponent if it had been used in combat. "Just try to visualize a warrior in the sun, on the eve of a battle, with a shiny helmet on his head," he remarked.The enemy is in a state of shock only at that moment.