site.btaArchaeologists Discover Unique Triangular Tower from 3rd Century in Urvich Fortress in Sofia

A triangular stone tower, dated to the end of the 2nd century or the beginning of the 3rd century was discovered in Urvich Fortress in Sofia on Tuesday, said archaeologists Dr. Filip Petrunov and Violina Kiryakova.

The scientists emphasized that this is an exceptional archaeological discovery, which was made at a depth of 1.7 metres, where archaeologists came across massive stone structures with an unusual triangular plan. Scientists assume that the construction is from the time of the development of Serdica, the Roman predecessor of today’s Sofia. This is the earliest structure discovered so far on the territory of Urvich, and marks the beginning of its strategic role back in Antiquity.

The archeologists pointed out that the oldest coins discovered to date are from the reign of the Roman emperor Caracalla (211–217 AD). Also of interest is the fact that the structure was repeatedly rebuilt in subsequent eras. Of particular importance is the Byzantine coin of Emperor Isaac II Angel (1185–1195), which points to reconstructions at the end of the 12th century. This testifies that the triangular tower has retained its strategic value for more than a millennium, the archeologists stressed.

New signboards have been installed at the site, which facilitate visitors and introduce them to the most significant discoveries, which they can read more about online. The initiative is part of the project of the National History Museum, dedicated to the socialization of the fortress and the popularization of the Bulgarian cultural and historical heritage.

The archaeological research is funded by Sofia Municipality under the Culture programme.