Viminacium Archaeological Park
Podunavski okrug
Viminacium Archaeological Park is a vast archaeological site near Stari Kostolac, Serbia, encompassing the remains of a Roman legionary camp and city founded in the 1st century AD. It served as the capital of the Roman province of Upper Moesia and was a strategic military and trading hub along the Danube frontier. At its peak, Viminacium housed up to 40,000 inhabitants, making it one of the largest Roman cities in the Balkans. The site covers approximately 450 hectares and includes remnants of temples, streets, forums, an amphitheater, palaces, a hippodrome, and Roman baths. It is renowned for having the largest number of discovered Roman graves, with around 16,000 tombs unearthed to date. Viminacium was destroyed by the Huns in the 5th century, rebuilt during Emperor Justinian I's reign, and eventually abandoned after Slavic invasions in the 6th century. The park offers unique insights into Roman urbanism, military architecture, and provincial life without modern settlement overlay, allowing comprehensive archaeological research and presentation.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan their visit during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for guided tours and special exhibitions, to ensure availability. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The park offers educational programs and guided tours to enhance the experience. Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to the site's large area and outdoor nature.
Faits intéressants
- •Viminacium had an amphitheater with a capacity of approximately 12,000 spectators, one of the largest in the Roman provinces.
- •It is the site with the largest number of Roman graves discovered, totaling about 16,000 tombs as of 2023.
- •Emperor Septimius Severus proclaimed his son Caracalla as his successor in Viminacium in 196 AD.
- •The city was a major strategic and commercial hub, located at the confluence of the Mlava and Danube rivers near the Iron Gates gorge.
- •The mausoleum crypt is believed to be the burial site of Emperor Hostilian, who died during a plague in the mid-3rd century.
- •Viminacium's ruins are not covered by any modern settlement, allowing for exceptional archaeological research and preservation.
Histoire
Viminacium was established as a Roman military camp in the 1st century AD, possibly under Emperor Augustus.
It became the capital of Upper Moesia after the province was divided in 87 AD following Domitian's Dacian War.
The city flourished throughout the 2nd and 3rd centuries, gaining municipal and later colonial status, and was an important military base for Legio VII Claudia and Legio IV Flavia Felix.
It was visited by emperors such as Hadrian, Septimius Severus, and Constantine the Great.
The city was devastated by Hunnic invasions in the 5th century but was partially rebuilt under Justinian I.
It was finally destroyed and abandoned during the Slavic migrations in the 6th and early 7th centuries.
Archaeological excavations began in the late 19th century and continue today, revealing extensive urban and funerary remains.
Guide du lieu
Legionary Camp (Castrum)1st century AD
The fortified military camp of Viminacium was one of the largest in the province, serving as a key defensive point on the Danube frontier. Visitors can explore the layout of the camp, including defensive walls and gates.
Roman City Ruins1st–4th century AD
The civilian settlement adjacent to the camp grew into a large city with streets, forums, temples, and public buildings. Excavations reveal urban planning and architectural features of a Roman provincial capital.
Amphitheater3rd century AD
A large amphitheater capable of seating approximately 12,000 spectators, used for gladiatorial games and public events. It reflects the city's social and cultural life.
Necropolises1st–4th century AD
Viminacium is famous for its extensive necropolises with thousands of graves, providing invaluable insights into Roman funerary customs and local population.
Domus Scientiarum Viminacium21st century
The modern archaeological park's visitor center and research facility, offering exhibitions and educational programs about the site's history and findings.
Contact
Téléphone: 062 232209