Archaeologists unearth ancient "mall" with 26 shops in Nicopolis ad Istrum

In 2025, the archaeological works at Nicopolis ad Istrum near the village of Nikyup focused on an ancient "mall" and a public building with a fountain. The complex is located in the center of the ancient Roman city, which is an important archaeological site in the northern part of Bulgaria.

The works, led by Dr. Ivan Tsarov, director of Regional Museum of History - Veliko Tarnovo, revealed a "thermoperipatos", which has no analogues in the eastern Roman provinces.

Translated, the name means "heated building for walks". A total of 26 shops were located along the northern and southern streets, which were probably active in the 2nd century.

According to Dr. Tsarov, the heated building for walking with shops resembles an ancient "mall". In some of the shops, fragments of ceramic vessels and unfinished bone ornaments typical of those times were found. The thermoperipatos dates back to the end of the 2nd century under Emperor Commodus, who was assassinated and his name was scratched out of the inscription because he was condemned to oblivion.

Innovative laser technology was used in the restoration of the architectural details, allowing for gentle cleaning of the stone.

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Compiled by: Veneta Nikolova

Photos: BTA