Roman City of Nicopolis ad Istrum | Veliko Tarnovo

The Roman City of Nicopolis ad Istrum was a significant Roman settlement in the province of Moesia Inferior, located near the modern-day town of Nikюpol in northern Bulgaria. Founded by the Roman Emperor Trajan in 106 AD, it was built to commemorate his victory over the Dacians and the establishment of the province of Moesia. The city was strategically placed along the main Roman road leading from the Danube to the interior of the Balkan Peninsula, and it flourished for several centuries.

Key Features:

Location:

• Nicopolis ad Istrum was situated near the Danube River, which made it a crucial administrative and commercial center for the Romans. Its proximity to the river also facilitated trade with the regions around the Black Sea and Thrace.

Urban Layout:

• The city was designed according to Roman urban planning principles, with straight streets (cardo and decumanus), a forum, public buildings, and baths. It was known for its well-preserved city walls and gates, which provided defensive capabilities.

Public Buildings and Monuments:

• The city boasted a range of Roman public buildings, including a basilica, theaters, temples, and an impressive aqueduct system that provided water to the inhabitants.
• Remnants of inscriptions and statues suggest that the city was dedicated to Roman gods and emperors, and there are records indicating the presence of imperial cult worship.

Economic Importance:

• Nicopolis ad Istrum became an important economic center in the region, thriving in trade and agriculture. The city's strategic position allowed it to control the Danube limes, a major military and trade route, and it was well-known for the production of goods like pottery, amphorae, and textiles.

Decline and Abandonment:

• The city gradually declined after the 5th century AD, likely due to repeated invasions by Goths and Huns. By the time of the 6th century, Nicopolis ad Istrum was largely abandoned.

Archaeological Significance:

• Today, Nicopolis ad Istrum is an important archaeological site. Excavations have uncovered numerous artifacts, coins, and inscriptions, shedding light on the life in the Roman Empire.
• Some of the key findings include the remains of the Roman baths, parts of the city walls, and the basilica, which was used for Christian worship later in the city's history.

Visiting the Site:

• The archaeological site is located near Nikюpol and is open to visitors. It offers an opportunity to explore the remnants of Roman urban architecture and provides insights into Roman history in the Balkans.

Nicopolis ad Istrum represents a crucial part of Roman heritage in Bulgaria and is an example of the empire's influence in the region. It is considered an essential stop for those interested in the archaeology and history of ancient Roman cities in the Balkans.