Hoard Find as a Primary Historical Source

The Question of Discovery, Dating, and Expressiveness of the Emona and Čentur Hoards

Abstract

The discussion highlights the significance of hoard findings as a primary historical source. It researches the reliability level of such analysis and the interpretation of antique hoard findings. On the other hand, it also researches the possible traps that lead to an insufficiently critical inter- pretation. The aim of this paper is to present the most important Roman hoards in Slovenia - the Emona and the Čentur hoards: What problems researchers had to face when the hoards were found, what is the chronological reliability of the hoards, and what we can deduct about the reason for their burial and about the historical circumstances.