Abritus Archaeological Reserve

About

The Roman town of Abritus began as a military camp at the end of the 1st century AD, built on the remains of an earlier Thracian settlement. Within a century, it had developed into one of the largest urban centres in the province. In 251, the Roman legions face off against the invading Goths nearby, resulting in the death of Emperor Trajan Decius. The town was a important Christian hub, complete with massive fortress until the 6th century when it was destroyed by the Avars and the Slavs. For a short time at the end of the 9th century, a Bulgarian fortress took its place, until this too was destroyed. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the settlement, or visit the archaeological museum. The largest finds are, such as a sacrificial altar dedicated to Hercules are exhibited outdoors, while smaller relics, such as a small horde of gold coins are on display inside.