Ancient Roman city unearths hidden history in Kosovo

Pristina, August 24, 2024 - Archaeologists in Kosovo have uncovered stunning new details about the ancient Roman city of Ulpiana, shedding light on its significance as a hub of Roman culture in the Balkans. Recent excavations have revealed a remarkably preserved mosaic floor dating back to the reign of Emperor Justinian, offering a rare glimpse into life in the early Christian era.

Located near the town of Gračanica, just 12 kilometers from Pristina, Ulpiana once served as a major administrative and trade center in the Roman province of Dardania. Though the city was largely lost to history after being devastated by an earthquake in 518 AD, it was rebuilt under Justinian’s orders. Now, with international support and cutting-edge technology, the secrets of this forgotten city are finally coming to light.

The latest discovery centers on a basilica believed to have been constructed between 535 and 545 AD. Led by French and Kosovar experts, the dig has exposed intricate geometric patterns and vibrant depictions of birds and fountains in the mosaic, which experts describe as “spectacular.” According to Professor Christophe Goddard of the École Normale Supérieure in Paris, these motifs are strikingly similar to those found in other churches from the same period, yet the level of preservation is exceptional.

“This mosaic is not only an artistic masterpiece but a historical document,” Goddard said. “It contains details that pinpoint the city’s rebuilding precisely within Justinian’s reign. This gives us a rare window into the timeline of the region’s development.”

The site’s exploration has benefited from modern techniques like ground-penetrating radar, allowing archaeologists to map out structures before excavation begins. “We’re effectively able to ‘see’ beneath the ground, identifying where walls and foundations lie. This has saved us time and minimized damage to the site,” explained Goddard.

The European Union has funded much of the project, which also involves local students gaining hands-on experience with advanced archaeological methods. For many, like 24-year-old Drilona Berisha from Gjilan, this project is more than academic training; it’s a connection to a shared heritage. “I always loved collecting old objects as a child,” she said, “but being part of uncovering our ancient history has deepened my passion.”

Kosovo’s government, which recently secured land in Gračanica for further excavation, sees Ulpiana as a potential tourist magnet. Prime Minister Albin Kurti, who visited the site last week, highlighted the basilica’s discovery as a symbol of Kosovo’s rich cultural past and its potential future as a destination for visitors eager to explore the roots of European civilization.

Work at the site will continue into the autumn, weather permitting, with the aim of fully revealing the basilica and nearby Roman structures by the end of the year.