From 17 May to 31 August 2025, the Gemer-Malohont Museum hosts an exhibition entitled The Kagan’s Rider in its gallery spaces. (source: Facebook - Gemersko-malohontské múzeum/Gömör-Kishonti Múzeum)
Archaeologists in Hungary uncovered a rare 7th-century Avar warrior’s grave near Derecske in 2017, revealing a fully armed elite cavalryman buried with his horse. The exceptional find is now on display at the Gemer-Malohont Museum in Rimavská Sobota, southern Slovakia, as part of the exhibition The Kagan’s Rider, open until 31 August.
“This is the first complete lamellar cuirass from the Avar period found undisturbed and in its original burial position,” said Alexander Botoš, archaeologist at the museum. The armour – made of more than 500 iron plates – was buried alongside a full set of weapons, including a gilded iron sword, bow, spear and a richly decorated warrior’s belt.
The warrior, aged 30–35, was laid in an oak-plank coffin with his fully outfitted horse, complete with saddle, bit and gilded silver fittings. The armour has since been painstakingly reconstructed using preserved fragments, leather and linen.
Previously shown in Hungary, Austria and Germany, the exhibition continues to draw international attention for its unparalleled glimpse into the Avar military elite.
