New evidence of the devastation from the Mongol invasion found in Hungary

Archaeologists have uncovered new evidence of the destruction caused by the Mongol invasion of 1241-42 during excavations near the Golden Monastery in Bugac, as reported by the director of the Kecskemét Katona József Museum.

New evidence of devastation

Szabolcs Rosta, who is also the lead archaeologist for the excavation, stated that in recent weeks, the remains of six young individuals, aged between 14 and 18, were discovered in the area of the Árpád-period Pétermonostora. These individuals are believed to have fallen victim to the Mongol attacks during the summer of 1241.

He emphasised that the results of the current excavation have only reinforced what archaeologists had already suspected: the Mongols engaged in an open battle with the local population here. The men fell in battle, while the warriors then executed women and children in large numbers. The Mongols subsequently established a temporary military unit, a Mongol camp, in the area.

The Mongols did not feel secure here

According to the archaeologist, the findings also indicate that, contrary to previous assumptions, the Mongols did not feel entirely secure in the area. This likely led them to retreat into the fortified monastery, from where they monitored the surroundings.

He explained that a section of the complex defensive trench system, measuring approximately 60-70 meters, has been uncovered, which is believed to extend up to 500 meters. These earthen and wooden fortifications strengthened the already impressive stone structures of the monastery and basilica.

The remains of children who were executed in a row, either seated or crouching, found a few years ago also indicated, as now confirmed, that the settlement was completely taken over by the invaders.

In many cases, the bodies were hastily buried along with their captives—Christian Hungarians and Slavs—due to the risk of infection, he noted.