History, mystery and medieval Europe converge in Batina: Treasure of the Cross, a fascinating exhibition centred around a remarkable archaeological discovery from eastern Croatia. Presented by the Archaeological Museum Zadar in collaboration with the Archaeological Museum Osijek, the exhibition showcases a hidden hoard of 56 silver coins dating back to the time of the First Crusade.
The coins, silver denarii minted in southern France during the late 11th century were uncovered during archaeological excavations in the village of Batina, situated along the banks of the Danube. Their unexpected discovery offers a rare insight into the turbulent world of medieval Europe, long-distance trade routes and the movement of people, wealth and ideas during the era of the Crusades.
Elegant in scale yet rich in historical significance, the exhibition reveals how a small collection of coins can illuminate an entire chapter of European history. Through carefully presented artefacts and archaeological context, visitors are invited to trace the extraordinary journey of these medieval treasures from crusader Europe to the eastern edges of present-day Croatia.