Archaeological Guide of Kosovo

Banja e Pejës
126
Ancient archaeological site of Banja e Pejës, situated in the crossroad
that links Peja with Istog, is only 12 km northwest from Peja. During
the construction period of Onyx hotel in 1974, a typical Illyrian military
helmet was discovered accidentally. Apropos, the archaeological rescue excavations
commenced at this site that resulted with abundant discovered
archeological movable material, while among the most important ones
uncovered features and findings are a grave of an important pair that was
named by the archeologists as a royal tomb.
The couple’s grave was constructed in the rectangular shape base
and built with tuff stone plates, most probably extracted from the neighboring
quarry. The recorded female grave contained rich grave goods material
for example; fibula, omega shape needles, a ring and necklace decorated
with geometrical motifs, forged in silver and bronze. On the other hand,
the male burial grave contained the grave goods, personal belongings composed
of; weapons, silver and bronze jewelry.
The archaeological documentation of these important and valuable
findings, among others, offers a picture of the time, characteristic for the social
and economical differentiation of individuals or groups. Rich archaeological
material discovered at this site belongs to the Late Iron Age, 6th-5th
century BC. Surrounding micro region is rich on site and off site findings of
different periods, confirming the continuity and occupancy of these most
probably due to the great life conditions when having in mind the thermal
water sources near this site. On the other
hand, the landscape and geostrategic favorable
position were ideal for selection
of this locality to be inhabited during the
long time period.
127
Fig. 126. A typical Illyrian military helm of the 6th-5th
century BC. (Frontal and side view). (Kosovo Museum).
Fig. 127. The map of the Banja e Pejës site position, Istog
(Burim) Municipality.
Archaeological Guide of Kosovo 53