A unique, for the northern Greece region, ancient tomb and artifacts were recently uncovered at the Mavropigi site in Kozani prefecture, a find that came to light during excavation works at a PPC lignite mine, local media report.

According to the local archaeological service bureau (ephorate), the burrow-like tomb is dated to the late Hellenistic period (roughly the end of the first century BC), and containing numerous funeral offerings.

It's noteworthy that the tomb, which contains the skeleton of a female, is undisturbed, even by contemporary construction.

The body of the deceased woman was located on a bronze funeral bed on a north-south axis.

Photo Source: Kozani Ephorate of Antiquities

The tomb was found 1.5 meters beneath the site where a home was recently demolished as part of mining work in the village of Mavropigi. The richly adorned body was on an elaborate bronze funeral bed, which is “in excellent condition,” while a gold leaf was found in her mouth.

“We’re dealing with a rich woman or someone who held an important position in the society of the time,” noted Areti Chondrogianni-Metoki, director of the Kozani Ephorate of Antiquities.

The woman’s remains were taken to the Archaeological Museum of Aiani, where they will be examined to ascertain her age and even the cause of death.