Ancient Roman Settlement Unearthed in Slovakia During Excavation for Industrial Park

Image credit: Archaeology Magazine

Archaeologists in Slovakia stumbled upon remnants of an ancient Roman settlement while excavating an area near Rimavská Sobota. Initially conducting surveys to locate traces of World War II battles ahead of the construction of an industrial park, the team unearthed unexpected treasures, shedding new light on the region’s rich history.

The excavation, led by the Slovak Heritage Office, commenced with radar surveys aimed at identifying remnants of WWII battles that had occurred in the vicinity. However, the results revealed more than anticipated, indicating buried archaeological ruins beneath the surface.

Upon further exploration with metal detectors, archaeologists uncovered ammunition and fragments of ancient Roman belt buckles, offering intriguing insights into the area’s past. Their findings led them to the waterlogged soil of an ancient stream bed, where they gradually unveiled not only a medieval settlement but also remnants of an ancient Roman settlement dating back 1,900 years.

Among the remarkable discoveries were several furnaces used for processing iron ore, providing evidence of ancient metalworking practices. The well-preserved furnaces, depicted in photos released by officials, offered a glimpse into the industrial activities of the ancient Roman inhabitants.

The presence of Roman ruins in modern-day Slovakia highlights the historical significance of the region, where remnants of Roman military fortresses and defensive structures still endure. This discovery adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the Roman empire’s influence and presence in Eastern Europe.

In addition to the ancient Roman settlement, archaeologists uncovered a medieval settlement believed to be Kľačany, occupied from the 11th to 13th centuries. Wells and pottery vessels dating back at least 700 years were among the artifacts unearthed, providing valuable insights into medieval life in the region.

The identification of the medieval settlement as Kľačany aligns with historical records, further validating the archaeological significance of the site. Mentioned in a document dating back to 1557, Kľačany was described as an abandoned medieval settlement, echoing the findings of the excavation.

While excavations at the site near Rimavská Sobota are ongoing, they are expected to conclude soon, allowing for a more thorough examination of the artifacts uncovered. Researchers anticipate that further analysis of these discoveries will provide valuable insights into the region’s ancient past and its significance within the broader context of European history.

Rimavská Sobota, situated approximately 170 miles east of Bratislava in southern Slovakia near the border with Hungary, serves as the backdrop for this remarkable archaeological find. The unexpected discovery of an ancient Roman settlement amidst preparations for industrial development underscores the importance of preserving and studying cultural heritage sites to uncover hidden treasures of the past.

As reported by Miami Herald in their recent article