Rare Queen Tamar Coin, Well-Preserved Skeleton and Medieval Board Game Pieces Found at Amberd Fortress

Archaeologists working at Armenia's medieval Amberd Fortress have uncovered a rare coin of Queen Tamar, one of the most influential rulers of the Caucasus, alongside a remarkably well-preserved human skeleton and artifacts offering new insights into daily life during the Middle Ages.

The discoveries were made during ongoing restoration and excavation work at the Amberd Fortress Historical and Cultural Reserve, Armenia's Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports announced.

Among the most significant finds is a coin bearing the image of Queen Tamar, the celebrated 12th-13th century monarch whose reign was the height of medieval Georgia's political and cultural influence across the region. The discovery provides another tangible link to the interconnected history of the South Caucasus.

Excavations also revealed the remains of a young individual buried near the fortress's inner defensive wall. Archaeologists said nearly 90% of the skeleton has been preserved in place, with only the finger bones missing. Based on the condition of the teeth, experts believe the individual was a young adult.

Researchers further uncovered what are believed to be pieces from the medieval board game tama, a game resembling modern-day checkers. The artifacts may offer rare evidence of recreational life within the fortress centuries ago, shedding light on the everyday experiences of its inhabitants beyond warfare and defense.

Archaeological and conservation work at Amberd remains ongoing, with researchers continuing to uncover artifacts that are helping piece together the history of one of Armenia's most iconic medieval fortresses.

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