Abstract
The article analyzes data concerning the development of the Roman castellum of Almus and its settlement hinterland. The author relies primarily on the unpublished manuscript of Dmitrij Marinov, which contains detailed field observations from the end of the 19th century. At the beginning, the importance of Almus in the system of the lower Danubian limes is discussed. It was an important defensive and communication point, connected with the road network and other forts of the region. The author compares data from various sources — both classical archaeological research and historical accounts. The most important part of the article is a detailed catalogue of archaeological sites in the Lom region (map on page 252). Numerous locations are described, including Dobri Dol, Lom, Dolno Linevo, and Stanevo, where remains of forts, public buildings, necropolises, and inscriptions were discovered. In many cases, the author corrects earlier identifications (e.g. the location of the castellum of Remetodia), showing the development of research on the region’s topography. An important element is the analysis of the communication system. Stoitchkov points to the existence of a road linking Ratiaria with Montana and Serdica, secured by a network of forts and bridges. Traces of this infrastructure (e.g. stone bridges or roads visible in the terrain) confirm the strategic significance of the region. The author also draws attention to settlement continuity—many sites show traces of use from the Roman period to the Middle Ages. Discoveries of coins, pottery, and architectural remains testify to intensive settlement and economic activity. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of archival and field research for the reconstruction of the archaeological landscape of the lower Danube and the role of Almus as an important element of the empire’s defense system.
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