MILITARY AND CIVILIAN SITES IN THE HINTERLAND OF TROESMIS (TURCOAIA, TULCEA COUNTY, RO)

Abstract

Within the framework of a multidisciplinary research project (2010-2015), the basic features of the topography of the Roman-Byzantine settlement at Troesmis (Turcoaia, Romania) could be clarified. Key was the localization of the approximately 16 ha legionary fortress and the approximately 30-35 ha civilian settlement located nearby. On the basis of old maps, remote sensing data, geophysical prospection as well as extensive field surveys, it was not only possible to determine the boundaries of the ancient settlement, but also to register for the first time numerous new sites in the surroundings of Troesmis. The results of the large-scale surveys formed the basis for targeted geomagnetic measurements in the hinterland. The central settlement of Troesmis is embedded in a dense network of roads and rural settlement sites of different types. The water supply was mostly provided by an aqueduct, the course of which could be verified over a length of about 7 km. Furthermore, two temporary Roman military camps could be detected for the first time in the region.

Keywords

• geophysical prospection
• archaeological survey
• temporary camp
• rural settlement
• water supply