Evidence indicates ancient Serbian site was a typical Roman settlement
30 Nov 2008, 1208 Hrs

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Washington, Nov 30 A team of archaeologists has discovered monumental buildings below Romuliana, an ancient site in Zajecar in Serbia, covering a total of 300 square meters, which suggests that it was a typical Roman settlement.he discovery includes a temple and 25 objects hidden under the surface.

The discovery was made by a team of German experts from the Archeological Institute of Frankfurt, in collaboration with archaeologists in Zajecar.

"It was generally believed that Romuliana, the place where Roman emperor Caius Valerius Galerius Maximianus (297-311) was born, was a village," said Bora Dimitrijevic, the director from the museum in Zajecar.

"This discovery casts a completely new light on historical data about Romuliana, proving that it was a Roman settlement with all characteristics of Roman cities of the time," he added.

According to him, a building made of solid material, most probably a temple, has been discovered under the ground.

"Next year, we will probably know more when we continue our excavations. The 25 buildings that we have found so far on 35 hectometers are very interesting," Dimitrijevic said.

These unusual discoveries will most probably change an overall picture of Romuliana built in the 4th century which has recently become protected by the UESCO.

On the western side of the archeological site, three buildings have also been found, which are reminiscent of churches, but there are still no evidence that they are Christian temples.

"Until the end of December, we will sign a five-year contract with our colleagues from Germany about further exploration of Romuliana. Next year, we expect to carry on with it on the location between the Palace and sacred Magur," Dimitrijevic said. (ANI)