The treasure of Hoogwoud.
(Photo:Archeology West-Friesland/Fleur Schinning)
Do you dream of buried treasure?
For one recently lucky Dutch metal detectorist, his find contained rare medieval golden jewelry and silver coins.
The treasure of Hoogwoud. (Photo:Archeology West-Friesland/Fleur Schinning)
Metal detectorist and historian Lorenzo Ruijter has been searching for treasure since he was 10 years old.
He uncovered four golden ear pendants, two strips of gold leaf, and 39 silver coins.
He notified Archeology West Friesland and the artifacts were taken to the National Museum of Antiquities for preservation.
Filigree work in gold, 1000-1050 C.E. (Photo:Archeology West-Friesland/Fleur Schinning)
It is around this time they believe the hoard was buried.
The jewelry found with the coins dates even earlier.
It is thought to be from 1000 to 1050 C.E.
The thirty-nine silver pennies (1200-1250 C.E.). (Photo:Archeology West-Friesland/Fleur Schinning)
It has likely been passed down the generations and highly prized by its owner.
It was very special discovering something this valuable, I can’t really describe it.
I never expected to discover anything like this, Ruijter toldReuters.
A woman models the gold earring on a headband. (Photo:Archeology West-Friesland/Fleur Schinning)
Everyone else will get to enjoy this cultural heritage, too.
The pieces will be displayed at the museum, although Ruijter will retain ownership.
Filigree work in gold, 1000-1050 C.E.
(Photo:Archeology West-Friesland/Fleur Schinning)
The treasure was likely buried around 1250 C.E.
when the most recent of the coins were minted.
The thirty-nine silver pennies (1200-1250 C.E.).
A woman models the gold earring on a headband.
