Archaeologists continue excavations at ancient city of Ratiaria near Archar

Archaeologists are continuing excavations of the Roman baths of the ancient city of Ratiaria near the village of Archar (Northwestern Bulgaria), the head of the archaeological research, Associate Professor Dr. Zdravko Dimitrov of the National Archaeological Institute with Museum at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, told the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA).

Excavations at the baths will continue until the end of October. Field restoration and conservation of the structures uncovered so far are also planned. They are believed to be part of the central section of the baths, including a caldarium and hot-water pools. Research in this area has been made more difficult by numerous alterations carried out during Late Antiquity, meaning the study of the entire sector cannot be completed this season.

Researchers are also mapping the drainage galleries and looking for the point where the channel connects to Ratiaria’s main sewer system.

Field restoration of the uncovered structures is also scheduled to continue through the end of October. A large part of the ancient bath complex has already been excavated and requires ongoing conservation. Nearly 65 workers and an eight-member archaeological team are taking part in this season’s excavations. The research is part of efforts to preserve and present to the public one of the most significant ancient cities along the Bulgarian stretch of the Danube.

Edited by Tsvetana Toncheva

Translated by Kostadin Atanasov