500BC-400AD-Ancient times Europe Romania Archaeological sites, ancient temples

Hidden Masterpiece Revealed: Remarkable Painted Hypogeum Tomb in Tomis, Romania

Hypogeum Tomb Romania
Hypogeum Tomb
The discovery of the Hypogeum tomb in Constanța, Romania is truly sensational. This unique tomb has managed to preserve the original paintings on its interior walls, which gives it not only exceptional historical significance but also immense artistic value. Every painted element inside the tomb holds a symbolic meaning, making it a masterpiece of both art and history. Let's discover these symbols together and admire the beauty of this exceptional find.

Tourist Information

Construction year4th century
TypeArcheolgical Tomb
Entry / Ticketshttps://minac.bilet.ro/muzeul-de-istorie-nationala-si-arheologie-constanta/
LocationOld Town, Constanța 900178, Romania, Europe

Map

What is the Hypogeum Tomb?

The tomb, which dates back to the 4th century, from the time of Constantine the Great, is an underground tomb, the interior walls being painted with both pagan and Christian symbols. There is a replica of the original tomb in the Constanța Archeology Museum, the original tomb is nearby, but it is sealed and cannot be visited. Funds have been obtained and the tomb will be restored and returned to the tourist circuit.

Hypogeum Tomb Romania
Hypogeum Tomb

A similar tomb was discovered in Silistra, Bulgaria.

Where was the hypogeum tomb discovered and who discovered it?

In 1988, while constructing blocks of flats on Mircea Street in Constanța, a painted tomb was unearthed. The discovery was made by scientific researcher Constantin Chera and history doctor Virgil Lungu in the same location where Tomis’ cemetery once existed.

Inside the vault, located below the current ground level, the bodies of four or five people were discovered in wooden coffins, one skeleton to the left of the entrance and another, a child, in a broken amphora.

Archaeologists say that the number of skeletons cannot be precisely determined, as the deaths come from successive periods, so the bones were collected to make room for others.

What is painted on the interior walls of the tomb?

The central scene of the vault represents a funeral banquet. Seven male characters are illustrated, some with ritual vessels, baskets, and a plate.

Floral elements, trees, animals, and birds are also painted on the walls which can evoke the Garden of Eden, as does the image of four doves and partridges drinking water from a cup. Peacocks pecking at fruit symbolize the resurrection or immortality of man.

Hypogeum Tomb Romania
Hypogeum Tomb

Who does the grave belong to?

It is assumed that the tomb belonged to a Tomitan family of the 4th century, quite well placed from a financial point of view.

What do the paintings inside the tomb symbolize?

Peacock

Resurrection: In Christian art and symbolism, the peacock is sometimes associated with the resurrection and the idea of eternal life. Its shedding of feathers and renewal of plumage can be seen as a symbol of rebirth and the afterlife.

Beauty and Elegance: Peacocks are renowned for their vibrant and striking plumage, and they often symbolize beauty, grace, and elegance.

Vanity: In some interpretations, the peacock’s proud display of its feathers has been linked to vanity and pride.

Immortality and Renewal: In Hinduism, the peacock is associated with the goddess Saraswati and is believed to represent immortality and renewal. The peacock’s ability to shed and regrow its feathers is seen as a symbol of the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

Protection: In some traditions, peacock feathers are considered protective talismans. They are believed to ward off negative energies and evil spirits. Peacock feathers are used in rituals and ceremonies to offer protection and good luck.

Compassion and Watchfulness: In Buddhism, the peacock symbolizes compassion, mindfulness, and the watchful eye of the compassionate deity Avalokiteshvara (Kuan Yin).

Doves

Peace: Doves are perhaps most well-known as symbols of peace. This association is rooted in various religious and cultural traditions. For example, in Christianity, the dove is often associated with the Holy Spirit and the message of peace. The story of Noah’s Ark features a dove bringing an olive branch, symbolizing the end of the flood and the return of peace.

Hope and Renewal: Doves are associated with hope, renewal, and new beginnings. This symbolism is partly due to the dove’s presence in the story of Noah’s Ark, which signaled the end of the flood and the beginning of a new era.

Hypogeum Tomb Romania
Hypogeum Tomb

Purity and Innocence: Doves are often seen as symbols of purity, innocence, and simplicity. This is partly because of their clean white feathers and gentle nature.

Spirituality: Doves are linked to spiritual and religious symbolism in various traditions. In Hinduism, they are associated with deities like Saraswati and Krishna. In Islam, doves are seen as symbols of purity and divine blessings.

Funeral banquet

A funeral banquet painted inside a tomb is a representation of an important cultural and historical practice.

Commemoration and Mourning: A funeral banquet scene inside a tomb often serves as a visual representation of the deceased being honored and remembered. It is a way to commemorate the life of the departed individual and pay respects.

Celebration of Life: In some cultures, these scenes are not solely about mourning but also celebrating the life of the deceased. The banquet can represent a joyful remembrance of the person’s life, achievements, and the relationships they had with others.

Transition to the Afterlife: In certain belief systems, the funeral banquet can symbolize the deceased’s transition to the afterlife. The food and drinks offered may be seen as provisions for the journey to the other side.

Ancestral Reunion: In some cultures, the banquet scene might represent a reunion with deceased ancestors or loved ones in the afterlife. It symbolizes the continuity of family and kinship bonds beyond death.

The Papyrus Tomb, Mangalia, Romania

The Papyrus Tomb, a 2 300 years-old tomb unique in Romania

The Papyrus Tomb is a tomb funerary complex in Romania, dating to the Hellenistic era (4th century BC). The remains of a Papyrus written in Greek were discovered over the right hand of the skeleton from the tomb.

About the author

Catalina

I am Catalina, and my passion for travel, mysteries, legends and archaeology drives me to explore the world and uncover its hidden wonders.