Polish archaeologists found a very large hoard of 6.5 thousand silver coins, silver and gold bullion, and two wedding rings, which could belong to Princess Maria, daughter of Chernigov Prince Oleg Svyatoslavich of the Rurik dynasty.

A nearly 900-year-old hoard has been found in a field near the village of Słuszkowie in Kalisza District, PAP reports. In 1935, the largest hoard of coins in Poland was found in the area, but no systematic research has been conducted in Słuszkowie.

Modern archaeologists decided to explore the surrounding area in case of new finds. As a result, they managed to make a discovery right in the cornfield near the village road. Coins in linen sacks were hidden in an earthen vessel. One of the precious rings bore the inscription: “Lord, help your servant Maria”.

Scientists suppose that it was Princess Maria Olegovna. It is known, that the Polish prince Boleslav III Krivousty (1086-1138) was married to the Kiev princess Sbyslava (Zbysława), daughter of Svyatopolk Izyaslavich. When Zbysława died, Boleslav III sent his closest advisor Piotr Włostowic to Rus to woo the princess Maria. Instead, Piotr Włostowic, who owned part of Silesia, himself married Princess Maria, thus further strengthening his position.

Perhaps the treasure was part of Maria’s dowry. It could have been hidden during Vlast’s escape from Poland, when years later he fell into disgrace. Scientists are planning further studies that will confirm or refute this hypothesis. Source, Source 2