Bojná Archaeological Site
Nitra Region
The Bojná Archaeological Site, located in the Nitra Region of Slovakia, is renowned for being one of the largest Great Moravian agglomerations in the country. It comprises a system of Slavic hillforts strategically positioned on the southeastern foot of the Považský Inovec mountains, guarding the pass between the Váh and Nitra river basins. The main fort, Bojná I (Valy), was heavily fortified with walls up to six meters high, ditches, and gates, and was intensely populated during the 9th century. Excavations have uncovered numerous craft workshops, primarily smithies, and thousands of artifacts including weapons such as battle axes, swords, and seaxes, indicating a warrior elite presence. Among the most significant finds are some of the oldest Christian religious objects in Slovakia, including a bronze bell of Canino type and gold-coated plaquettes depicting angels and Christ, dating from 780 to 820 AD, predating the mission of Saints Cyril and Methodius. Additionally, two short Latin inscriptions found here represent the earliest evidence of writing in Slovak history. The site was likely violently destroyed in the 10th century, possibly by old Hungarian forces, and was used less intensively afterwards. Today, many artifacts are displayed in the Ponitrianske Museum in Nitra, and a local museum dedicated to the site opened in 2007. The eastern gate of the Bojná I hillfort was reconstructed in 2018, featuring an 11-meter-high and 12-meter-wide entrance with a tunnel behind it. The archaeological complex offers a unique glimpse into early medieval Slavic culture, warfare, and the advent of Christianity in the region.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Bojná Archaeological Site is during the warmer months when outdoor exploration is comfortable. Visitors are advised to check opening hours of the local museum and consider purchasing tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons. The site offers educational value, so guided tours or informational materials can enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the terrain around the hillforts.
Faits intéressants
- •Bojná Archaeological Site contains some of the oldest Christian artifacts in Slovakia, including gold-coated plaquettes dated to 780–820 AD.
- •Two short Latin inscriptions found at Bojná are the earliest evidence of writing in Slovak history.
- •The hillfort Bojná I was protected by walls up to 6 meters high with defensive ditches and gates.
- •The site was likely destroyed violently in the 10th century, possibly by old Hungarian units.
- •The eastern gate of Bojná I was reconstructed in 2018, featuring an 11-meter-high entrance with a tunnel behind it.
Histoire
The Bojná area has been inhabited since at least the 9th century when the hillfort Bojná I was a major fortified settlement of the Great Moravian period.
It was strategically important for controlling the pass between the Váh and Nitra river basins.
The hillfort was heavily fortified with walls and ditches and served as a center for craftsmanship and military activity.
The site was violently destroyed in the 10th century, likely by invading Hungarian forces, marking the decline of its importance.
The village of Bojná itself was first mentioned in written records in 1424, with earlier nearby settlements dating back to the 12th century.
Over centuries, the area evolved from a strategic medieval site to a modern municipality with rich archaeological heritage.
Guide du lieu
Bojná I Hillfort (Valy)9th century
The main and largest hillfort of the Bojná complex, featuring massive defensive walls, ditches, and gates. It was a major center of craft workshops and military activity during the 9th century. Visitors can explore the reconstructed eastern gate and learn about the site's strategic importance.
Local Museum of Bojná2007
Opened in 2007, this museum displays many artifacts excavated from the Bojná hillforts, including weapons, tools, and early Christian religious objects such as bronze bells and gold-coated plaquettes. It offers detailed historical context about the Great Moravian period and the site's significance.
Contact
Téléphone: 0903 211 785