PODUNAVLJE - Frontiers of the Roman Empire – The Danube Limes in Serbia

The Roman Empire's frontier in Serbia, specifically in the Podunavlje region, offers a rich tapestry of historical significance, exemplified by three key field stops on the conference trip.

The first stop, the strip coal mine “Drmno”, not only showcases contemporary industrial activity but also unveils layers of history, as the region was integral even back to the Roman mining operations. The journey then leads to Viminacium (a Roman city and a legionary Fort), a prominent archaeological site that was once a bustling Roman provincial capital, complete with impressive remnants of infrastructure, such as amphitheaters, temples, and necropolises.

This stop offers a vivid glimpse into the daily life of the Roman inhabitants. Besides archeological artifacts, the Viminacium site is a place where in 2009 a mammoth skeleton was found, preserved almost entirely. Furthermore, during the 2012 routine archeological fieldwork more mammoth bones were found that indicate the unique “mammoth graveyard”. Mammoths soon became the biggest attraction of Viminacium, immediately protected and preserved for the visitors.

The Viminacium field stop offers not only archaeological wonders but also a sensory journey through time. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to savor an authentic Roman-era lunch, meticulously crafted to recreate the flavors and culinary traditions of the ancient period. The menu will feature dishes inspired by historical recipes, allowing participants to indulge in the tastes that once graced the tables of Viminacium's inhabitants.

This immersive dining experience will transport conference-goers back to the Roman era, fostering a deeper connection to the cultural and culinary aspects of this ancient civilization.

The excursion continues to the Golubac fortress, strategically positioned at the entrance of the Iron Gates gorge. This fortress played a crucial role in safeguarding the Roman Empire's Danubian frontier, and its well-preserved architecture stands as a testament to the military prowess and strategic foresight of the Roman, Bulgarian, Serbian, and Ottoman Empire in the defense of their territorial boundaries. Together, these field stops promise conference attendees an immersive experience, weaving the industrial, urban, and military facets of the Roman presence in the Podunavlje region.

Credits - EPS