Ancient Roman Settlement Unearthed in Bulgaria: 1,500-Year-Old History Destroyed by Fire

Archaeologists have discovered a Late Roman settlement, destroyed by fire, near the village of Borimechkovo in the Pazardzhik region of Bulgaria, during natural gas pipeline construction. This significant find, spanning an impressive 4,400 square meters in the Western Sredna Gora mountains, sheds light on the region’s rich history.

Traces from the Ancient Settlement:

The meticulous work of archaeologists has revealed a treasure trove of artifacts, including pottery fragments, coins, and remnants of daily life dating back more than 1,500 years. Among the discovered structures, two buildings made of adobe and supported by stones stand out. One of the buildings is approximately 9 meters long and has multiple rooms, while the other consists of two sections.

Traces of Fire and Historical Context:

Research indicates that the settlement was abruptly destroyed by a fire. It is believed that this fire, which occurred after AD 347, could be linked to the Gothic Wars and barbarian raids that affected Thrace during that period. The settlement was never rebuilt and was abandoned after the fire.

Coins and Dating:

Coins found in the area play a crucial role in illuminating the settlement’s history. The fact that the latest coins belong to the reign of Constantius II (AD 347-355) confirms the settlement’s existence during this period. Additionally, the discovery of coins from earlier periods indicates that the area was used in previous times as well.

Findings and Traces of Life:

The findings, described as “limited but diverse,” include arrowheads, jewelry, household items, and ceramics. Storage containers and cast iron pieces suggest that the settlement engaged in trade. The coexistence of Roman influence and traditional Thracian styles in ceramics highlights cultural interaction.

The Importance of Archaeological Heritage:

This discovery not only provides important information about rural life in Thrace during the Late Roman period but also reveals the region’s archaeological richness. While modern infrastructure projects and urban development threaten such historical sites, archaeologists continue to unravel the region’s secrets with new technologies.

Alexandrova, S (2025), Archaeological excavations of a Late Roman settlement near the village of Borimechkovo, Lesichovo Municipality, Pazardzhik Region. Bulgarian e-Journal of Archaeology Supplements 12.

Cover Image Credit: General view of the uncovered buildings. Credit: Sirma Alexandrova