by InTrieste
In the heart of Trieste, a remarkable discovery is set to captivate historians and treasure enthusiasts alike. On May 9th, the “J.J. Winckelmann” Museum of Antiquities will unveil a long-forgotten relic from the annals of history: the Erpelle Treasure.
Nestled within the rugged terrain of Hrpelje/Erpelle, now part of Slovenia, this trove of riches lay hidden for centuries until it was accidentally unearthed in 1921 by Giovanni Kolaric, a humble railway worker. Comprising over five thousand silver coins and a dozen gold pieces, this treasure, concealed in terracotta jars, tells a tale of medieval intrigue and banditry.
But the story doesn’t end there. Forgotten once again, this treasure languished in obscurity until its recent resurrection, sparking newfound interest in its origins and significance. Scholars, led by Giulio Carraro of the University of Trieste, have meticulously analyzed its contents, shedding light on its role in the economic tapestry of medieval Europe.
What makes the Erpelle Treasure truly remarkable is not just its sheer value, but the narrative it weaves of a bygone era. In an age marked by social upheaval and economic strife, hoarding treasures like these was not uncommon. Legends abound of bandits like Dobrila, whose exploits in smuggling and theft are said to be mirrored in the very treasure discovered at Erpelle.
The coins, minted in Venice, Aquileia, and beyond, offer a glimpse into the bustling trade routes and commercial exchanges that once crisscrossed the Adriatic region. But perhaps most intriguing are the counterfeit coins found within the treasure—a testament to the daring exploits of medieval forgers who risked life and limb to produce fake currency in a bid for wealth and notoriety.
The Erpelle Treasure is more than just a collection of coins; it is a window into a forgotten chapter of history, waiting to be rediscovered by a new generation of enthusiasts. And in a world grappling with its own uncertainties, the allure of hidden treasures and untold stories has never been stronger.
Admission to the exhibition is free, inviting all to embark on a journey through time and uncover the secrets of the Erpelle Treasure.
