Exhibition in Plovdiv Shows Bulgaria's Largest Medieval Gold Coin Hoard

An exhibition entitled "Human Passions: The Price of Desire" is on at the Plovdiv Regional Archaeological Museum, displaying all 786 coins from the Gornoslav Treasure for the first time to the public. Dating to the 11th–12th century, it is the largest gold coin hoard in Bulgaria. Details about the exhibits were provided at a news conference on Wednesday.

The exhibition highlights one of Bulgaria’s most important numismatic discoveries, offering insight into the economic, political, and cultural life of medieval society. Its broader aim is to turn attention toward human emotions, using archaeological artifacts combined with poetry and art.

Visitors will also encounter poetry from different eras integrated into the displays. The curatorial concept stresses mortality and perspective: recognizing that all human pursuits end in the same outcome, encouraging moderation and self-reflection.

Exhibition curator Dr. Desislava Davidova pointed out that the exhibition explores the idea of desire and its “price,” encouraging visitors to reflect on fulfilled and unfulfilled aspirations and the point where ambition turns into passion. She emphasized passion as a driving force throughout human history, linked to wealth, status, love, power, and recognition.

Museum curator Sonya Semerdzhieva welcomed the collaboration with the Alitheia Foundation, calling it a particularly successful partnership and noting that this exhibition differs from previous museum projects through its concise, impactful texts and strong connection between archaeological material and interpretation.

“Human Passions: The Price of Desire” can be viewed until November 30 at the Plovdiv Regional Archaeological Museum.

/NF/