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Oescus
43.7000° N, 24.4833° E
About
Oescus, Palatiolon or Palatiolum (Bulgarian: Улпия Ескус, pronounced [oɫˈpiɐ ˈɛskos]) was an important ancient city on the Danube river in Roman Moesia. It later became known as Ulpia Oescus. It lay northwest of the modern Bulgarian city of Pleven, near the village of Gigen. For a short time it was linked by the longest and most famous stone bridge across the Danube, Constantine's Bridge, with the ancient city of Sucidava (modern-day Corabia, Romania). The city seems to have at one point reached a area of 280,000 m2 and a population of 100,000. Archaeological excavations have brought to light parts of the ancient city and are continuing.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Constantine opens Danube bridge
5 July 328 AD
Medieval Bulgarian village present
10th–14th centuries
Legio V Macedonica stationed (first period)
10–101 AD
Legio V Macedonica returns to Oescus
71 AD
Colonia granted by Trajan
106–112 AD
Full Roman rights granted
167 AD
Temple to Fortuna dedicated
190–191 AD
Oescus II and defences expanded
after 271 AD
Destruction of Constantine's Bridge
355 AD
Huns destroy Oescus
411 AD
Attempted Hun settlement 'Hunion'
444 AD
Avar invasion ends rebuilding efforts
late 585–early 586 AD
Modern excavations begin
1904
Discovery of 'The Achaeans' mosaic
1948
Aula regia richly decorated discovered
2020
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Defensive Structures
Military Installations
Water Management Features
Public and Civic Structures
Burial and Funerary Structures
Industrial and Craft Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Transportation and Communication Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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