Archaeological excavations at Gamzigrad - Romuliana in 2007-2008

Archaeological excavations at Gamzigrad-Romuliana (2007–2008) revealed that the earlier fortification of Felix Romuliana, previously thought to date from the 4th–5th centuries, was actually constructed in the 3rd century. The research uncovered a large public building—likely the principia—founded beneath Galerius' bath, featuring a courtyard (atrium), porch, and pylon with towers. This structure was adapted into the palace complex rather than demolished, challenging prior dating assumptions. Excavations also identified multiple renovation phases of an adjacent frigidarium (cold-water pool) with mosaic decorations, including rare glass cubes in deep blue and gold. Stratigraphic analysis across layers (D–G) provided a detailed timeline from the late 3rd to mid-5th centuries, incorporating artifacts like pottery, coins, and metal items. The study used systematic excavation of predefined squares and trenches, combined with architectural and artifactual dating.

Petkovic, S., & Kapuran, A. (2013). Archaeological excavations at Gamzigrad - Romuliana in 2007-2008. Starinar, (63), 287–300. https://doi.org/10.2298/sta1363287p