13th century church unearthed in Bulgaria
30 Jun 2008, 1258 Hrs

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Sofia (Bulgaria), June 30 (ANI): A team of archaeologists has discovered an ancient church in the city of Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria, which dates back to the 13th century, along with remains of an ancient graveyard.

Prominent archaeologist Nikolay Ovcharov led the team that unearthed the church, known as "St. Ivan Rilski".

It is the place where the relics of the saint Ivan Rilski were once saved before being sent to the Rila Monastery.

"It took us a month to find the church. Unfortunately, it is not completely preserved but even the remains could show us its magnificence," said Ovcharov.

A golden ring with a two-head eagle as well as numerous silver coins, jewelry and ceramic utensils were also found at the site.

"The bird on the ring was a symbol of the dignity of the Orthodox countries rulers in 14th century, which reveals it belonged to a boyar," the archaeologists commented.

Near the temple, the archaeologists also discovered a unique necropolis, where only aristocrats are supposed to have been buried. (ANI)