EAA 2022: Abstract

Although few examples of archaeological evidence of the presence of silk fabrics come from the Great Moravian environment (9th century, Central Europe), the evidence is reliable and significant. As regards the study and processing of textile remains and tools used to make textiles, Mikulčice is the most well researched and documented Great Moravian site in the Czech Republic. This important early medieval European archaeological site – a river stronghold – was the seat of Mijmirid dynasty. It consisted of a fortified acropolis and outer bailey, more unfortified extramural settlements and a wider economic hinterland. The results of 60-year-long archaeological research in Mikulčice include discoveries of 10 church remains with more than 2 500 graves (including elite graves with wealthy grave-goods), a princely palace, groundings of wooden bridges and gates, fortification with stone front wall and tens of thousands artefacts, which are still the subjects of multidisciplinary analytical research. The completely new research of a small yet very well-preserved fragment of silk samite on a small gilded plate unearthed in 1957 during a survey of grave 590 is a fundamental discovery. Its analysis has enabled us to elaborate on the conclusions from past research in greater detail and particularly to confirm the presence of luxury textiles in a lavishly equipped child’s grave from the cemetery by the Mikulčice basilica. A total of 11 samite-type fabric finds have been recorded from Mikulčice, offering convincing proof that this luxury material was available to the inhabitants of the Mikulčice hillfort, even though it was affordable only by a very small group of the richest or most influential people.

Great Moravia, silk fabric, samite, long distance trade

Oral presentation

  Abstract (PDF)

Helena Brezinova²

Šárka Krupičková¹