Ancient Roman Coffin Found at Beach Bar

An ancient Roman sarcophagus, dating back 1,700 years, was recently uncovered at a beach bar in Bulgaria, where it had been repurposed as a table. The relic was found on the sandy shores of the Black Sea near Varna, specifically at the Radjana Beach Bar. A former police officer, vacationing at the beachfront area of St. Constantine and Elena, alerted local authorities after noticing the decorated table, prompting archaeologists to investigate the artifact's historical significance. Upon examination, archaeologists confirmed the sarcophagus's authenticity, revealing intricate designs including garlands and animal rosettes. The top of the sarcophagus had been replaced with a stone slab for bar use, and it had reportedly been in this condition since at least 2020. Archaeologist Alexander Minchev noted that the original structure and interior of the sarcophagus date back to the second century AD, and it has since been relocated to the Archaeological Museum in Varna for further study. The origins of the sarcophagus remain uncertain, as its design is atypical of other Roman artifacts found in Varna, suggesting it may have been brought from another region in Bulgaria. Under Bulgarian law, all archaeological finds belong to the state, and the individual who discovered the sarcophagus is required to report it to the nearest museum. Authorities have initiated a pre-trial investigation to determine how the artifact ended up at the beach bar and why it was used inappropriately. The case highlights ongoing issues with the trafficking of Roman artifacts in Bulgaria, where police seized over 4,600 archaeological items in 2020 alone. These items, including urns and ancient coins, were linked to military camps in northern Bulgaria, underscoring the need for vigilance in protecting the country’s cultural heritage.