A routine construction project in Sint-Gillis-Dendermonde, Belgium, led to an extraordinary discovery Tuesday when workers unearthed a gold hoard valued at over $10 million. The find occurred as the crew was excavating the foundation to lay a sewer pipe in a building that was undergoing renovation.
Initially mistaking the glint for a pile of 1-Euro coins, workers soon realized the magnitude of their discovery after spotting a gold nugget. "After 33 years in construction, it is the first time I have experienced something like this," said site manager Mario. "We kept digging up new coins and bars as well. Only then did it really sink in what we had found. That was a crazy feeling."
The total stash, consisting of ingots and bullion, amounts to approximately 9 million Euros, or about $10.4 million USD. While the discovery has generated excitement, the construction crew was obligated to hand over the precious metals to the police.
The hoard has been placed in the care of CAW Oost-Vlaanderen, an organization that provides social support services in Dendermonde. Officials hope the recovered wealth can be utilized to fund their charitable endeavors.
The discovery has drawn a crowd, with dozens of people reportedly visiting the site in hopes of finding more treasure. Local police have cautioned the public to stay away, citing safety concerns as the building is under demolition and warning that there is "nothing left to see."
While the rightful owner remains unknown, historians speculate it may belong to the local Van Assche brewing family. Belgian law allows a five-year period for the owner to claim the fortune. If unclaimed, the gold could be divided between the finder and the property owner, provided the hoard is not linked to any criminal activity. The student worker who was part of the crew expressed hope for a finder's fee.
