Archaeologists excavating the Roman vicus of Pilisszentiván have uncovered a lead statuette of Venus alongside coins, tools and other objects offering new insights into everyday life at the ancient settlement.
The 2026 archaeological excavation at the Pilisszentiván–Hárs Forest site marks the fourth season of research into the Roman vicus, or village.
Led by Bence Simon of the Department of Ancient Archaeology, the project brought together archaeology students, staff from Archeovertex Kft. and volunteers from the Pilisszentiván Local History Association, Pilis Len Visitor Centre and Community Archaeology Association. The excavation was supported by the National Cultural Fund and Pilisszentiván Municipality.
This year, archaeologists focused on defining the extent of buildings previously identified around the Hársas spring and establishing how the structures were used.
The season’s standout discovery was a lead Venus Pudica statuette, found during a metal-detector survey. The object is particularly significant because it represents the first known religious monument discovered within the vicus.
Other finds provided further evidence of Roman activity at the site, including a fragment of a leaded-bronze mirror, iron tools, fibulae — Roman brooches used to fasten clothing — and coins.
Excavation of the residential area and the northern room or forecourt of a structure designated Building E also produced important evidence. Archaeologists uncovered an area paved with stone slabs, similar to surfaces found around previously identified houses. Researchers believe it may have been associated with economic or working activities.
At the northern end of the excavated area, the team encountered an undisturbed rubble layer containing a substantial quantity of pottery, including some complete vessels, as well as an intact pair of iron tongs. Researchers hope the assemblage will reveal more about the building’s function and the daily lives of the people who inhabited the settlement.
Although fieldwork for 2026 has now ended, analysis of the archaeological features and finds is continuing. Researchers hope to return to Pilisszentiván next year, with numerous questions about the development, function and inhabitants of the Roman settlement still awaiting answers.
Sources : ELTE BTK Institute of Archaeology