Scythian Golden Bongs: An Astonishing Archaeological Find
Indiana Jones would turn green with envy if he heard about the recent discovery made by archaeologists. Any crystal skull pales in comparison to a bong made of pure gold. Yes, that’s exactly the kind of unique artifact from Scythian culture that was recently unearthed in the Caucasus. And it wasn’t just one: a pair of authentic bongs, over 2,400 years old, were once used by Scythian tribal leaders to smoke cannabis and opium.
An Incredible Discovery
Archaeologists excavating Scythian settlements in southern Russia recently stumbled upon a real treasure. The total weight of the golden artifacts from the height of Scythian culture found during the research was about three kilograms. Among the well-preserved jewelry, cups, and vessels, the scientists were in for a surprise—they came across some truly incredible items.
At first, researchers assumed the two unusual vessels were meant for burning incense. However, their distinctive shape, along with traces of cannabis and opium found in the bowls (confirmed by analysis), proved that these were nothing other than ancient bongs. According to Anton Gass, a Berlin-based archaeologist, there is no doubt that the Scythians used both substances—opium and cannabis—at the same time.
Why Did the Scythians Need Bongs?
The ceremonial smoking devices discovered by the team of archaeologists were likely used by the warlike Scythians (a tribe inhabiting parts of modern Europe and Asia from around 800 BC to 300 AD) to boost their fighting spirit. Some legends say that Scythian warriors had a tradition of consuming a potent mixture of cannabis and opium right before a decisive battle.
According to National Geographic, this discovery confirms the truth of stories about the Scythians told by Herodotus. In one of his works, the ancient Greek historian wrote that the smoke from the plants used by the Scythian warriors at their camps was thicker than the steam in any Greek bathhouse. Herodotus also claimed that, under the influence of cannabis, the Scythians would let out a terrifying battle cry. If this is how ancient warriors prepared for battle, one can only imagine how they celebrated their victories!
Although the golden bongs were a complete surprise to archaeologists, journalists around the world are already highlighting their significance in global cannabis culture. One enterprising media outlet even came up with the slogan: “Why should we be any worse than Scythian kings?”