Thracian Tomb Griffins

The Thracian Griffins Tomb near Shipka, Bulgaria, was discovered by archaeologist Georgi Kitov on August 19, 1996, and is considered the largest domed tomb from Ancient Thrace discovered to date. Dating to the 5th century BC, its facade features plastic columns surmounted by a pediment with semi-palmette decorations whose elongated lower leaves resemble griffin heads, giving the tomb its name. Inside, a stone funeral bed and small stone table were found. Despite ancient looting, excavators recovered golden jewelry, golden flakes, and fragments of silver and bronze.