A rare multicolored Roman-era brooch has been uncovered near the northern Polish city of Grudziądz, marking only the second find of its kind ever recorded in the country, according to archaeologists.
The brooch, also known as a fibula, was found during a routine metal-detection survey by members of the Grudziądz Fortress Association. The team was scanning the area when they came across the decorative artifact, which stood out due to its vivid enamel work and unusual design.
Patryk Budziński, president of the association, said the team quickly recognized the historical value of the object and notified the Voivodeship Conservation Authority without delay.
Brooch linked to ancient Gothic culture
The brooch is currently under examination, but researchers have noted its strong resemblance to another fibula discovered in a child’s grave at the Babi Dół-Borcz cemetery in the Somonino commune.
That site was excavated between 1978 and 2015 by teams from the Jagiellonian University and the University of Łódź, and is linked to the Wielbark culture, which is associated with early Gothic migrations from Scandinavia during the first centuries AD.
A rare multicolored Roman-era brooch has been uncovered near Grudziądz, Poland — only the second of its kind ever found in the country. The discovery links the region to ancient trade, Gothic migrations, and rich cultural history. 🏺🇵🇱 #Archaeology #History #Poland #AncientRome pic.twitter.com/XXWcuyrknd
— Tom Marvolo Riddle (@tom_riddle2025) December 31, 2025
The fibula from Babi Dół-Borcz is a 3.3-centimeter (1.3-inch) disc featuring a central knob and enamel in alternating white and blue, bordered by a red ring. The brooch found near Grudziądz appears nearly identical but slightly larger, with 12 decorative protrusions instead of eight.
Production of multicolored Roman-era brooches
These types of enamelled brooches were commonly produced across Roman provinces, especially in regions such as Gaul and Rhaetia, between the late first and mid-second centuries AD. Experts believe they were worn by girls and may have functioned as jewelry, toys or protective charms.
Previous archaeological work in the same area has revealed Roman ceramics, additional fibulae, a cosmetic spoon, belt pendant fragments, a spur, a hair ornament, a Teutonic coin and a Scythian spearhead.
Researchers say the wide range of items suggests the presence of a multicultural settlement along the Amber Road, an ancient trade route linking the Baltic to the Roman Empire.
The brooch and other finds have been secured and reported to the Provincial Conservation Office. They are expected to go on public display at the Museum in Bydgoszcz.
