First stage of excavation works in Bulgaria's former capital of Veliko Turnovo, which ended on June 27, had uncovered the ruins of the St Ivan Rilski church and a 14th century grave.

An exhibition of the finds would be launched in September to mark the 100th anniversary of Bulgaria's independence, Focus news agency said.

The church was dated back to the 13th century and located at the foot of the Tsarevets hill. Finds in the church included fragments of an icon made of semi-precious gemstone, Focus Radio-Veliko Turnovo announced on June 19.

South of the church, a burial site of what was apparently a boyar (high ranking aristocrat) was uncovered. The site was dated to the 14th century. Inside, archeologists found silver jewelry, a belt buckle, a bronze crucifix, parts of alabaster icons, pottery and a large golden ring depicting a two-headed eagle.

Excavations were lead by Bulgarian archeologist Nikolay Ovcharov and funded by the Veliko Turnovo municipality. Total costs were estimated at 50 000 leva.