Nicopolis ad Istrum

Nicopolis ad Istrum was a Roman and Early Byzantine town. It was founded by the Roman Emperor Trajan after his victories over the Dacians in 101 and 106. It was built over an area of 30 hectares and is surrounded by fortress walls. The villas the craftsmen's workshops and necropolises are to be found outside the walls. The town was planned according to the orthogonal system. The network of streets, the forum surrounded by an Ionic colonnade and many buildings, a two-nave room later turned into a basilica and other public buildings have been uncovered in this town.

The rich architectures and sculptures show a similarity with those of the ancient towns in Asia. Nicopolis ad Istrum minted its own coins - 900 different emissions for one century, bearing images of its own public buildings. It was an episcopal centre during the early Byzantine period and was destroyed b the Avar invasions at the end of the 6th century. A Bulgarian medieval settlement arose upon its ruins later (10-14th century).

Nicopolis ad Istrum is an important site and is visited by thousands of Bulgarian and foreign tourists and many specialists. It has been declared a monument of culture and scrupulous care is taken of further excavations, investigation and popularization.

The site was placed on the Tentative List for consideration as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984. 

References:

• UNESCO

Address

Nikyup, Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Details

Founded: 101-106 AD
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Bulgaria