Publications
Roman Temporary Camps in the Area of Sarmizegetusa Regia
Recent archaeological discoveries in the Orăștie Mountains have uncovered three previously unknown Roman temporary camps near Sarmizegetusa Regia, the ancient Dacian capital. These findings significantly expand our understanding of the region's complex landscape, which includes Dacian fortresses and Roman fortifications. Using advanced technologies and topographical surveys, researchers identified these camps, contributing to a broader map of military encampments linked to pivotal confrontations in European antiquity. The study highlights the dynamic interplay between Dacian and Roman forces during this critical period.
Commentaria archaeologica et historica (V). 1. About the Legionary Fort at Sarmizegetusa in AD 102–205 (Cassius Dio 68.9.7). 2. The Destiny of the “Dacian Gold”. About a Koson Type Coin Reused in the 16th Century in a Christian (Renaissance) Context
A recent study challenges the traditional interpretation of Cassius Dio's account (68.9.7) regarding the location of a Roman legionary fort in Dacia after Trajan's first Dacian war (102 AD). Using LiDAR imagery, researchers F. Matei-Popescu and O. Țentea proposed that the fort was situated near King Decebalus' residence at Grădiștea de Munte, predating a later stone enclosure. However, this study argues that the earthen fort at Grădiștea de Munte more likely dates to Trajan's second Dacian war (105/106 AD), suggesting the stratopedon mentioned by Cassius Dio was instead located near Colonia Ulpia Traiana Dacica Sarmizegetusa. Additionally, the study explores the 'Dacian gold' phenomenon through a 16th-century liturgical chalice from Nitra, Slovakia, decorated with a Koson-type coin, likely originating from a 1491 hoard discovered by gold panners near Sebeș. This finding sheds light on the Renaissance fascination with Dacian antiquities and the circulation of 'Dacian gold' among European humanist scholars.
Historical Use of the Ashlar Limestone at Piatra Roșie Dacian Fortress; Interdisciplinary Approach in a World Heritage Site
A novel interdisciplinary approach reveals the historical use of ashlar limestone at Piatra Roșie, a UNESCO-listed Dacian fortress in Romania. The study combines historiographical and archaeological data with mineralogical analysis, construction engineering interpretations, and 3D modeling to assess the volume and durability of this key building material. This method offers new insights into the architectural techniques of the Dacian Kingdom (1st century BCE), blending local traditions with Greek and Roman influences. The findings provide a model applicable to other Dacian Fortresses in the Orăștie Mountains, enhancing our understanding of Late Iron Age monumental construction.
Dacian Fortresses in Orastie Mountains: Management of Heritage Structures
A comprehensive management strategy for the Dacian Fortresses of the Orastie Mountains, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is proposed to address long-term neglect and environmental risks. The approach emphasizes a multidisciplinary conservation plan that integrates structural preservation with community engagement, while mitigating threats from climate change and unauthorized interventions. Challenges in developing an urban plan for the commune of Orastioara, Romania, are highlighted, alongside a framework for sustainable heritage management that balances aesthetic restoration with contextual authenticity.
Aurora Petan, The World Heritage Convention and Romania. Case Study: the Dacian Fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains
Romania's implementation of the World Heritage Convention has significantly failed to protect and manage its inscribed sites, as demonstrated by the case study of the Dacian Fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains. The site exhibits twofold non-compliance: substantive, due to dereliction with no management system for 20 years and abandonment of five of six component parts, and procedural, stemming from fake reporting and omitted reports to the World Heritage Centre. Civil society intervention recently exposed the true state of the site, prompting reactive monitoring. The study identifies urgent solutions, including legal framework improvement and appropriate heritage policy adoption, to rectify this imbalance.
Dacic Ancient Astronomical Research in Sarmizegetuza
Research reveals that the Dacian Fortresses of the Orastie Mountains, particularly Sarmizegetusa Regia, served as astronomical observation shrines and solar calendars. The Great Circular Sanctuary, a key site in these mountains, was used for celestial observations and ritualistic purposes, suggesting an advanced understanding of astronomy among the Dacians. This study reinterprets the Dacian civilization's cosmogony by analyzing historical evidence and architectural features, challenging previous assumptions about their societal structures and beliefs.
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