Nicopolis ad Istrum

from Katerina in Get to know Bulgaria! Visits 1795 25 June, 2019

The remains of the early byzantine town of Nicopolis ad Istrum (translated "City of Victory of the Danube") are located about 20 km north of the town of Veliko Tarnovo on the road to Ruse, Bulgaria.

Nicopolis AD Istrum was founded by Emperor Traian in the beginning of the 2nd century in honor of his victory over the dacians at the Battle of Istrum (Danube). The town existed for about 5 centuries, and during this time he experienced the invasions of goths and huns, the baptism and the division of the roman empire. In the early 7th century it was assumed that it was destroyed by the avars and the slavs. In the 9th century a medieval settlement was arisen on its ruins, which existed until the end of the 12th century.

Nicopolis ad Istrum and the surrounding area were mostly crafts, stockfarming and agricultural. As an architecture, like any roman city is had a quadrangular shape with four gates pointing the directions of the world, and the streets crossed at a right angle. Coins were produced in the city, there were found over 1000 of them on which are depicted buildings, fortress walls, deities. A silver antique coin was discovered, dating back to the 2nd century with the image of Emperor Traian. After the excavations there, today you can see how the ancient streets with pavements and huge stone blocks appeared, as well as the street sewerage. Remains of a small theater, buildings and shops are also found. It is striking that even then in some rooms have had underfloor heating, believing that there was open path that is heated in winter.

Another interesting thing worth seeing outside the archaeological reserve is the water tower, which has helped the water supply in the city. There is a guide sign to the parking lot, which will guide you to reach it.

For several years every summer in Nicopolis ad Istrum is held Ancient Festival "Nike-the game and the victory". There are organized historical reconstructions, gladiator fights, craft market, workshops for demonstrations of Roman board games, Roman fashion, hairstyles and cuisine, playing with the audience.

To get to Nicopolis ad Istrum, I advise you to follow the signs, as by following only the navigation we passed by the shortest route proposed by the navigation, but in very poor condition. Free parking is available.