Construction Workers Discover Hidden Treasure Worth Millions in Belgium

In a remarkable turn of events, construction workers in Sint-Gillis-Dendermonde, Belgium, uncovered a hidden treasure estimated at 9 million euros while laying sewer lines. Initially mistaking shiny objects for ordinary coins, they soon realized they had stumbled upon gold bars and coins. The treasure, linked to an old brewery, has sparked curiosity about its rightful ownership. As authorities investigate, the story has captivated the nation, transforming a routine project into a fascinating treasure hunt.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 16, 2026, 11:48 IST

Unexpected Discovery in Sint-Gillis-Dendermonde

In Belgium, a routine construction task turned into an extraordinary find. While laying sewer lines in Sint-Gillis-Dendermonde, workers stumbled upon a hidden treasure estimated to be worth around 9 million euros, equivalent to approximately 10.4 million US dollars.

Initial Findings Spark Curiosity

The discovery occurred at the site of an old distillery. An 18-year-old student named Kobe was part of the construction crew. During excavation, he noticed shiny objects in the ground. Initially, they appeared to be ordinary coins, but as digging progressed, the team realized they had uncovered something much more significant.

From Coins to Gold Bars

According to Kobe, the coins initially resembled one-euro pieces. As the workers removed more soil, they uncovered gold bars and other precious metal fragments. It soon became clear to the entire team that they were facing a hidden treasure of gold.

Treasure Contents Revealed

Reports indicate that the treasure includes gold coins, gold pieces, and a substantial number of gold bars. Images released by the police show dozens of gold bars and coins. Approximately 49 gold bars were also recovered.

Historical Context of the Find

The treasure was not left in an open area. According to reports, the gold was concealed within the walls of the basement of an old building. This is why it remained unnoticed for such a long time.

Connection to an Old Brewery

The location of the treasure was once home to a brewery. This property was established for the brewery's owner, Theophile Van Aesche, in the late 19th century. Brewing operations began around 1899 and ceased in 1970.

Gold Handed Over to Authorities

Following the discovery of such a significant treasure, the construction team opted to report it to the police and relevant authorities rather than keeping it. The recovered gold has been sent to a secure government facility, where it is currently being cataloged and investigated.

Determining Ownership of the Treasure

With the gold's discovery, the pressing question arises: who is the rightful owner? No final decision has been made yet. Potential claimants include the property-related organization, the construction company, and descendants of the Van Aesche family.

Police Issue Warnings to the Public

As news of the treasure spread, interest around the construction site surged. The police have warned the public against entering the site without permission. Authorities state that construction and demolition work is ongoing, making unauthorized access potentially dangerous.

A Treasure Hunt Like No Other

Currently, the story of this multi-million euro treasure has captivated the attention of people across Belgium. What began as a simple sewer project has unexpectedly turned into one of the most intriguing treasure-hunting tales in history.