During the Migration Period

In the 5th century AD, the Romans abandoned Transdanubia due to attacks by the Huns, who occupied the region for a short time. After the collapse of the Hunnic Empire, around the mid-6th century, the Avars incorporated the territory of present-day Hungary into their powerful and well-organized empire. Under Avar rule, the Roman-Germanic settlements around Keszthely continued to exist. Their material culture is clearly distinguishable from other Avar-period archaeological finds, and in archaeological literature, this group is referred to as the “Keszthely culture.” In Szigliget, two graves associated with this group have been discovered. Among the finds were characteristic silver basket-shaped earrings, as well as an ornate pin, three beads, a bronze ring, and a bronze belt fitting. In addition, a Migration Period vessel has also been identified in the area of Szigliget. Based on these findings, it can be assumed that the local population of Roman origin survived the invasions of the Huns and other peoples, and, adapting to the new circumstances, became integrated into the Avar Empire. In the mid-9th century, following the defeat of Avar rule by the Franks, a Slavic principality emerged in western Transdanubia as a Frankish vassal state. The inhabitants of Szigliget likely belonged to this polity as well—at least for a short period—until the arrival of the Hungarians.