Nicopolis ad Nestum

Nicopolis ad Nestum is an ancient city spanning about 13 hectares near the Mesta River, with 280 meters of fortress walls, foundations of public buildings, and burial sites visible today. The remains show how a Roman settlement was organized with distinct areas for different purposes.

Emperor Trajan founded the settlement in 106 AD at the location of the earlier Thracian settlement Alexandroupolis, establishing it as a commemorative city for his military victory. This founding marked the beginning of the site as a major Roman outpost in the region.

The coins minted here show emperors and goddesses like Tyche and Hygieia, revealing what the residents believed in and worshipped. These images reflect how people viewed their relationship with their rulers and the divine forces they honored.

The site lies about 50 kilometers from Bansko and is reachable from the nearby towns of Sofia and Plovdiv. Visitors should prepare for uneven ground and bring suitable clothing and water.

Inscriptions reveal that residents donated around 700,000 denarii to Emperor Septimius Severus and Caracalla to gain imperial favor. This generous gift was a way for the city to show its loyalty to the throne.

Location: Blagoevgrad Province

Elevation above the sea: 589 m

GPS coordinates: 41.59556,23.79583

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:47