World's Oldest Gold Treasure Uncovered in 6,600-Year-Old Varna Necropolis

• In 1972, construction workers in Varna, Bulgaria, discovered ancient graves containing gold objects, leading to the excavation of the Varna Necropolis.
• Dating back to 4600-4300 BC (Copper Age), the site is recognized as the world's oldest known gold cemetery, challenging assumptions about early gold craftsmanship.
• Over 6 kilograms of gold artifacts, including necklaces, bangles, and pendants, were recovered from 62 of 300 graves, making them the oldest known gold items globally.
• The uneven distribution of gold, particularly in Grave 43 (nearly one-third of all gold), suggests early social hierarchy and concentrated wealth/power.
• Grave 43, belonging to an elderly man, contained a gold penis sheath, considered the oldest known gold jewelry, highlighting ritualistic and symbolic significance.

Why It Matters: The Varna Necropolis reveals the world's oldest gold treasure, indicating early complex societies and social stratification.