Biblical Archaeology Review
Home Subscribe
Conbustica

A Roman Military Camp in Bulgaria

By the first century A.D., the Romans had expanded their imperial reach into the eastern Balkans. Among the many forts and towns they established in the region was the impressive fort of Conbustica, located in the northwest region of modern-day Bulgaria. The fort, situated on a plateau overlooking two major river valleys, was strategically positioned on the main road through the Roman province of Moesia. Conbustica is even recorded on the Peutingerian Table, a schematic first-century A.D. map of the Roman world.

Biblical Archaeology: From the Ground Down

How does a dig team work? What do archaeologists look for at a dig? In this documentary DVD, learn how excavators work and what we can learn from archaeology. More information.

Over the years, excavations at the hilltop fort have revealed a classic model of Roman defensive architecture. The walls of the rhomboid-shaped fort were massive, with their stone foundations alone measuring over six-feet high and five-feet wide. The walls’ earthen superstructure has even been preserved to a height of four feet in some places. Inside the fort, archaeologists have found a range of artifacts that reveal the daily life of the soldiers who dwelt inside, including bronze artifacts, imported pottery and two unique bronze fibulae (ancient brooches used to fasten clothing). This season, dig director Sara Tatarova will continue to excavate the camp’s fortifications but will also explore the site’s pottery kilns and workshops.
In addition to digging, volunteers will be trained in the laboratory processing and documentation of excavated material. Participants will also take courses on archaeological drafting, including plan and section drawing. Team members will stay two-to-a-room in a hotel in the nearby town of Belogradchik. Hotel amenities include private bathrooms with hot water, TV and internet.

Sara Tatarova

Dr. Sara Tatarova is co-director of the Roman project and directs the excavations at Conbustica. She is affiliated with the Historical Museum in Belogradchik.

Dig Directors

Sara Tatarova

Geographic Location

Dimovo, northwest Bulgaria

Dates of Occupation

Roman, Byzantine

Dates of the Dig

July 1-August 31, 2009

Minimum Stay

Two weeks

Application Due

May 31, 2009

Cost

$500-$1250 (cost varies by module and length of stay)

Academic Credit/Cost per Credit/Institution

No

Accommodations

Hotel in nearby town of Belogradchik

Contact

Sara Tatarova
011-359-878-940223
info@archbg.net
www.cambustica.archbg.net

Open for tours

Yes (by appointment)

Subscribe now and receive either a free gift or a free issue