Conny Waters – AncientPages.com – The Avars, originating from Central and Inner Asia, arrived in the Carpathian Basin around 567/568. They were the first to unify this region under a single political authority, establishing an empire that endured for approximately 250 years until the early 8th century. Early Avar culture was influenced by Byzantine, Eastern European, and Western European traditions. By the 8th century, these influences had merged into a distinct “late Avar culture” unique to the Carpathian Basin.
Despite ongoing scholarly debate, the precise homeland and origins of the Avars remain uncertain. Most of what is known about them comes from historical accounts by their adversaries, particularly the Byzantines, who speculated about their background after their abrupt arrival in Europe. In recent years, scientists have undertaken a comprehensive DNA analysis involving 66 individuals from the Carpathian Basin. This study included samples from the eight wealthiest Avar graves ever found—remarkable for their abundance of gold artifacts—as well as other individuals who lived in the region before and during the Avar period.
The research aims to shed light on a mystery that has persisted for over 1,400 years: Who were the Avar elites, the enigmatic founders of an empire that nearly crushed Constantinople and ruled the lands of modern-day Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, Austria, Croatia, and Serbia for more than 200 years?
Grave of the Avar warrior found in Hungary. Credit: Szent István Király Museum
The relationship between the Avars and Hungarian history is notable. The “dual conquest” theory suggests that some late Avars may have been among Hungary’s earliest inhabitants. Numerous artifacts linked to this group have been found throughout Hungary.
Recent archaeological discoveries have expanded our understanding of Avar life. In particular, researchers uncovered a 1,300-year-old tomb of a high-ranking Avar warrior near Székesfehérvár and Aba in Hungary—a region once inhabited by the “Pannonian Avars.”
Historically, people believed these Pannonian Avars were identical to their Asian relatives, who led nomadic or semi-nomadic lives outside Central Europe. This misconception caused fear among contemporary societies, which assumed both groups were alike.
However, modern research indicates that while they may have formed loose alliances or confederations with their Asian counterparts, significant differences existed in their social structures and lifestyles.
The Avar sabre. Credit: Szent István Király Museum
A major challenge in studying the Avars is the lack of written records from their civilization; this has contributed to their reputation as one of history’s most mysterious peoples.
Credit: Szent István Király Museum
Credit: Szent István Király Museum
Credit: Szent István Király Museum
When scientists examined the ancient tomb near Székesfehérvár and Aba, they found evidence that it had been looted long ago—the remains of the warrior were missing or destroyed. Still, grave robbers left behind an iron sabre likely used as a status symbol among elite warriors. Several other items found in the tomb were also intact.
In August 2025, archaeologists from Szent István Király Museum excavated several artifacts from this site: a rare sabre (the most significant find), arrowheads, a long knife, silver belt ornaments, gold-plated braid clips, and a glass bead dangle earring. Experts estimate these items date back to between the 670s and 690s during what is known as the Middle Avar period.
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The iron sabre stands out for its preservation; despite heavy surface rust, it remains intact, with visible, delicate patterns and decorations, demonstrating advanced craftsmanship typical of skilled metalworkers at the time. The gently curved blade also suggests that cavalry played an essential role in military strength, as mounted soldiers in Avar society primarily used such weapons.
Conservator Petra Bódisné Szalontai restored the sabre and other ancient objects found in the tomb.
Source: Szent István Király Museum
Written by Conny Waters – AncientPages.com Staff Writer