The Vučedol treasure and the mysterious path of the lost and found artifacts
From excavations to the Museum of Vučedol Culture
From excavations to the Museum of Vučedol Culture
Vučedol, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, hides a fascinating story of exceptional discoveries and the incredible journey of its artifacts through history. Its rich cultural heritage is now accessible to visitors at the Vučedol Culture Museum, but little is known about how some of the most valuable findings endured the turbulent times of World War II and the post-war period before finally returning to Croatian museums.
Major Excavations and the Fate of the Finds
In 1938, German archaeologist Robert Rudolf Schmidt began extensive excavations at Vučedol, uncovering the rich legacy of the Vučedol culture—a civilization that existed between 3000 and 2200 BC. His research brought to light incredible artifacts, including the famous Vučedol Dove, which has become a symbol of Croatian archaeological heritage.
However, the world war interrupted the research and led to an unfortunate fate for many of the discovered items. In February 1944, Robert Schmidt instructed that the valuable archaeological material from Vučedol, Sarvaš, Bapska, and Kormadin be sent by train to Vienna, and then to Marquartstein in Germany. The crates were eventually shipped in two batches in November 1944, filled with artifacts, books, and photographs. However, the convoy was caught in the Allied bombing of Prague, during which part of the material was destroyed by fire. Despite this, 107 crates ultimately made it to Austria, to Lamberg Castle, where R. R. Schmidt was residing. But after the war, all trace of them was lost, and a long search for this treasure began.
Belgrade and the Mystery of the Missing Crates
Museum experts from Osijek launched a search for the missing treasure, but the truth about the artifacts’ fate was only revealed in 1946. Although all leads initially pointed to Austria, surprising evidence showed that the crates had been secretly transferred to Belgrade. An even greater surprise came with the discovery that the number of crates had increased from 107 to 111, and to this day it is unknown what additional artifacts were included.
During the socialist era, Yugoslav authorities denied having possession of the Vučedol artifacts, but over time they were eventually returned to Croatia. Today, these valuable items are held at the Archaeological Museum in Osijek and the Archaeological Museum in Zagreb, while the Vučedol Culture Museum offers insight into the rich past of this exceptional site.
Vučedol Culture Museum – Guardian of Heritage
Opened in 2015, the Vučedol Culture Museum presents the lives and customs of people who lived in this area over 5,000 years ago in a modern and engaging way. Thanks to interactive exhibits and expertly reconstructed artifacts, visitors can experience what daily life, astronomy, metallurgy, and pottery looked like during the time of the Vučedol culture.
Especially fascinating is the story of the Vučedol Dove, which symbolizes Vučedol and testifies to the high level of artistic expression of this culture. Furthermore, the museum reveals that the Vučedol culture had one of the oldest calendar systems in Europe, confirming its advancement and significance in the history of humankind.
The Importance of Preserving Cultural Heritage
The fate of the Vučedol artifacts reminds us how vulnerable cultural treasures are to historical upheavals. Although some valuable finds were lost, stolen, or relocated, thanks to the dedication of experts, they can now be explored and admired by all who visit the Vučedol Culture Museum.
If you're fascinated by archaeology, history, and cultural heritage, a visit to the Vučedol Culture Museum will provide a unique experience and an opportunity to connect with one of Europe's most important prehistoric civilizations. Come and discover the story of Vučedol—a story that, despite all challenges, has survived to this day.
Don’t miss out on exploring this fascinating museum—contact us for more information and reservations!
