Justiniana Prima, Archaeological site near Leskovac, Serbia
Justiniana Prima is an archaeological site near Leskovac with remains of an early Byzantine city spread across three areas: the Acropolis, Upper City, and Lower City. The excavations reveal foundations of churches, fortification walls, and water systems across roughly 10 hectares.
A Byzantine emperor established this city around 535 as a regional religious capital in Southeast Europe. It was later attacked by different peoples and abandoned by around 615.
The basilicas and public squares here show how Roman city planning mixed with Christian architecture in this early Byzantine settlement. Visitors can see how religious buildings and gathering spaces shaped daily life for the people who lived here.
The site is walkable with marked paths leading to church foundations, walls, and water systems. Wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore the different sections across the terrain.
The city relied on an elaborate water network that brought water from distant sources to fountains and bathhouses throughout the settlement. This feat of engineering demonstrates the skill of builders in that era.
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