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Ratiaria
43.8169° N, 22.9078° E
About
Ratiaria (or: Ratsaria, Raetiaria, Retiaria, Reciaria, Razaria; Bulgarian: Рациария; Greek: Ραζαρία μητρόπολις;) was a city founded by the Moesians, a Daco-Thracian tribe, in the 4th century BC, along the river Danube. In Roman times it was named Colonia Ulpia Traiana Ratiaria. It is located 2 km west of the present village of Archar in Vidin Province, northwestern Bulgaria and 3 km east of the present Balta Neagră Natural Reserve in southern Romania. The closest modern cities are Vidin (27 km to the north west), Lom (28 km to the east) in Bulgaria and Calafat (41 km to the north) in Romania. An archaeological museum for the site has recently been established in Dimovo.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Founding by Moesians
4th century BCE
Battle under Marcus Licinius Crassus
29 BC
Tiberius builds road
33/34 AD
Roman intervention by Curio
75 BC
Moesia divided
86 AD
Conquest of Dacia and castrum change
101–106 AD
Colonia established
107 AD
Aurelian abandons Dacia
271 AD
Dacia provinces reorganised
285 AD
Christian centre and bishopric
4th century
Prosperous in the 5th century
5th century
Hunnic sack
440 or 441
Avar sack
586 AD
Modern excavations begin
1958
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Defensive Structures
Military Installations
Public and Civic 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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