Publications
Archaeoseismological study of tilted foundations at Felix Romuliana, Gamzigrad, Serbia
A study of the Gamzigrad-Romuliana palace complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Serbia, reveals that severe foundation damage and structural destruction observed at the site were likely caused by natural forces rather than human activity. The research found strong correlations between foundation inclinations and natural terrain slopes, suggesting slope instability triggered by heavy rainfall or seismic activity. Historical earthquake records indicate that such events could have occurred in the 3rd century CE, with predicted seismic ground motions capable of inducing soil slumps on the alluvial fan where the palace stands. The study combines archaeoseismological analysis with geological data to propose natural causes for the observed damage, offering new insights into the resilience and vulnerabilities of ancient structures in seismically active regions.
Romuliana-Gamzigrad. Palace and/or villa?
Recent discussions challenge the long-standing classification of Romuliana-Gamzigrad as a palace associated with Emperor Galerius, instead suggesting it may better fit the criteria for a villa. The study critically examines the site's characteristics against established palatial indicators from the Tetrarchic period (late 3rd to early 4th century AD), identifying features that support both interpretations. By analyzing architectural elements, spatial organization, and functional aspects, the research highlights inconsistencies in the traditional 'palace' attribution while proposing a nuanced framework for distinguishing between villae and palatial structures in the Balkans during this era.
Eine neu entdeckte villa im Umfeld des Palastes Romuliana-Gamzigrad
A newly discovered villa in the vicinity of the Palace of Galerius at Gamzigrad-Romuliana challenges conventional distinctions between palatial and residential structures. This study compares the archaeological evidence of Romuliana's 'Palace' with that of the 'Villa extra muros' at Gamzigrad, providing a nuanced framework for differentiating these architectural forms. By analyzing spatial organization, structural features, and contextual clues, the research offers insights into the functional and symbolic roles of these sites in late Roman society. The findings contribute to ongoing debates about the nature of Romuliana's complex, shedding light on its possible dual function as both a ceremonial center and a private residence.
Eine neue Statue des Thrakischen Reiterheros aus Gamzigrad
A significant archaeological discovery at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gamzigrad-Romuliana, the Palace of Galerius, has uncovered a previously unknown marble statue depicting a collapsing boar. This rare find, likely representing the Thracian hero associated with bravery and strength, provides new insights into the iconography and religious significance of the site during the Roman era. The research, published in Ancient Cult in Balkans, analyzed the statue's craftsmanship, symbolism, and contextual placement within the broader archaeological landscape of Gamzigrad-Romuliana. Such discoveries enhance our understanding of the cultural and mythological layers embedded in this historic complex.
Review - Gerda von Bülow, Sofija Petković (Hrsg.), Gamzigrad- Studien I: Ergebnisse der deutsch-serbischen Forschungen im Umfeld des Palastes Romuliana. Römisch-Germanische Forschungen 75 (Reichert Verlag, Wiesbaden 2020)
Gamzigrad-Romuliana, the Palace of Galerius, emerges as a significant archaeological site with new insights into its construction and function. The study presents findings from German-Serbian research that shed light on the architectural techniques and historical context of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Key discoveries include advanced masonry methods and the integration of local materials, reflecting the engineering prowess of the Roman era. The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining architectural analysis with material science to reconstruct the palace's original design and purpose. This work not only enhances our understanding of late Roman architecture but also provides a deeper context for the site's preservation as a cultural heritage landmark.
The Efficiency of Chemical Cleaning of Different Metal Artefacts from Felix Romuliana and Gradina Archaeological Sites (Serbia)
Chemical cleaning of metal artefacts from the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gamzigrad-Romuliana and Gradina (Serbia) reveals distinct efficiencies depending on the corrosion products. EDTA-Na 2 rapidly removes lead carbonates, while citric acid excels at eliminating copper-based corrosion like malachite and cuprite. EDTA-Na 3 shows selectivity in removing silver oxides and copper compounds but is less effective on iron deposits such as goethite and magnetite. The study highlights the varying effectiveness of these solutions, their risks, and the transformation of corrosion products, offering critical insights for conservation practices.
Gerda von Bülow, Sofija Petković (eds), Gamzigrad-Studien I. Ergebnisse der deutschserbischen Forschungen im Umfeld des Palastes Romuliana. Römisch-Germanischen Forschungen, Band 75, Wiesbaden 2020, Reihert Verlag
Gamzigrad-Romuliana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in eastern Serbia, has been identified as the location of Felix Romuliana, a significant late Roman complex built by Emperor Galerius. This discovery was solidified in the 1980s with the finding of an inscription that confirmed the site's identity. The first volume of 'Gamzigrad-Studien I' presents the results of German-Serbian excavations conducted around the Palace of Romuliana, shedding light on its architectural and historical significance during the late Roman period (293–311 AD). The complex, covering approximately 40,000 m², includes a palace and temples, reflecting its importance in the ancient province of Dacia Ripensis. This volume marks a significant contribution to the understanding of this archaeological site, which has been studied since 1953 but lacked conclusive identification until recent findings.
Sustainability of Cultural Heritage in Inland Territories
A key insight from this study is that sustainable cultural heritage management in inland territories can effectively balance preservation with tourism development, as demonstrated by the case of two Serbian archaeological sites. The research analyzed plans for Gamzigrad-Romuliana and Caričin grad (Justiniana Prima), focusing on their alignment with principles of conservation, revitalization, and public engagement. It identified conflicts between heritage protection and tourism growth while proposing recommendations to mitigate these challenges. The study underscores the potential for inland cultural sites to contribute to both scientific and tourist value without compromising long-term sustainability.
The blues of Romuliana
A unique set of cobalt-blue glass fragments, including mosaic tesserae and architectural decoration remnants, was uncovered at the late Roman imperial residence Gamzigrad-Romuliana (Serbia). Chemical analysis confirmed that the blue pigment in all samples originated from cobalt, with notable antimony levels suggesting intentional opacification. The findings, dated to the 4th century, reveal a likely Syro-Palestinian provenance for most glass, with one sample possibly linked to Egyptian production. The discovery of furnace debris and window pane fragments within the site hints at local glassworking activities. Additionally, correlations in oxide concentrations imply standardized late Roman production practices, offering new insights into the craftsmanship and trade networks of the period.
The Stones of Felix Romuliana (Gamzigrad, Serbia)
Felix Romuliana, an Imperial retreat palace located in Gamzigrad, Serbia, reveals a sophisticated use of diverse building materials. The palace and its fortifications primarily employ local hornblende andesite, volcaniclastic sandstone from Magura Hill, and regional Sarmatian sandy limestone, alongside Mediterranean marbles for decorative elements like column shafts and capitals. This study highlights the strategic selection of materials, including silty-marly limestone for the first fortification and lithic wacke for the tetrapylon on Magura Hill, reflecting both practical and aesthetic considerations in Roman architectural design.
Zaštita i Prezentacija Arhitektonskih Ansambala na Arheološkom Nalazištu Gamzigrad
The archaeological site of Gamzigrad, home to the late ancient imperial palace of Felix Romuliana built by Roman emperor Galerius, offers valuable insights into intensive building activities across its structures. A critical analysis of protection and presentation methods at this UNESCO World Heritage Site reveals both advantages and disadvantages, highlighting the need for improved integration of old and new elements. This study contributes significantly to the objective review of contemporary methodological approaches in the field of archaeological site protection and revitalization, with potential applications for other sites in Serbia and the region.
Gamzigrad, Serbien: Der spätantike Kaiserpalast Felix Romuliana und sein Umfeld
A comprehensive analysis of the late antique palace complex Felix Romuliana, associated with Emperor Galerius (283–311 AD), reveals significant insights into the diachronic development and historical framework of its micro-region. This study, part of the TOPOI Excellence Cluster in Berlin, goes beyond previous research by examining not only the palace itself but also its immediate and wider hinterland from prehistoric to medieval times. The findings provide a new understanding of settlement patterns, offering valuable context for the palace's role within its historic and topographic landscape.
Romuliana (Gamzigrad, Serbia)
Gamzigrad, a fourth-century CE fortified villa complex attributed to the Roman emperor Galerius, stands as a monumental testament to Roman architectural ingenuity. Located in eastern Serbia's Black Timok Valley, the site features two rows of ramparts (300 m × 200 m) with 20 round towers, enclosing structures such as a palace, temples, a horreum (granary), thermae (baths), and other associated buildings. A key discovery is that this monumental phase was preceded by an earlier third-century corridor-style villa, indicating a significant evolution in architectural design and urban planning over the century. The study highlights Gamzigrad's strategic importance and its role as a symbol of Roman power during Galerius' reign.
The Roman settlement on Gamzigrad prior to the imperial palace Felix Romuliana
Archaeological research at Gamzigrad-Romuliana has uncovered evidence of a significant Roman settlement predating the construction of Emperor Galerius' imperial palace, Felix Romuliana. Traces of earlier buildings, dating from the late 2nd to the end of the 3rd century AD, were found within the fortified residence, including a three-aisled structure south of the 'Large Temple,' a building beneath the early southern tower of the East Gate, a substantial edifice under the Galerius Baths, and another building in front of the later southern tower of the West Gate. This settlement likely functioned as a mining, metallurgical, and commercial hub (vici or civitas) in the Timok Valley during the 3rd century, providing new insights into the region's economic and social development before the imperial era.
Crossbow fibulae from Gamzigrad (Romuliana)
A significant collection of 31 crossbow fibulae (Zwiebelknopffibeln) was discovered at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gamzigrad-Romuliana, representing one of the largest assemblages from a single site in Serbia. These fibulae, primarily found in stratified archaeological units dating from the early 4th to mid-5th century, provide valuable insights into their function and production during this period. Through morphological-typological and stratigraphical-chronological analyses, researchers concluded that these artifacts were not merely decorative but served a functional purpose, likely related to military or ceremonial use.
Trepanning on Mediaeval Gamzigrad — Felix Romuliana
A rare case of medieval trepanning, or surgical drilling into the skull, has been identified at Gamzigrad-Romuliana. The discovery, made through archaeological excavations between 1974 and 1992, reveals a well-healed trepanation on the left parietal bone of a male skeleton aged up to 45 years, dating back to the 10th or 11th century. This finding sheds light on medieval surgical practices and the survival rates of such procedures in the region. The study analyzed 132 skeletons from three excavation sites within and around the palace complex, employing anthropological techniques to assess skeletal remains. The trepanation was performed using an old filling technique, indicating advanced but traditional surgical methods during that era.
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