Metal Matters: archaeological excavations of an Early Bronze Age barrow near Hrabrovo, Northeast Bulgaria

Abstract This study presents the results of rescue archaeological excavations at the barrow near Hrabrovo and situates the findings within the broader framework of the Early Bronze Age in Northeastern Bulgaria. The recovered artifacts, evidence for burial customs, AMS radiocarbon dates, and metallurgical analyses together offer important new perspectives on the 3 rd millennium BC. Barrow burials in Northeastern Bulgaria have long been a focal point for research into the emergence and development of the EBA in what is now Bulgaria, an interest that has intensified with the growth of rescue excavations in recent decades. The Hrabrovo barrow contributes substantial new data for this discussion. By combining excavation results with a range of interdisciplinary approaches, the study achieves a detailed and comprehensive interpretation of the available evidence.