Viminacium, Roman archaeological site near Kostolac, Serbia

Viminacium is a Roman archaeological site near Kostolac, Serbia, where excavations have uncovered the foundations of temples, streets, squares, an amphitheatre, palaces, a hippodrome and Roman baths across 450 hectares. The excavated area is sheltered under a large roof with wooden beams and translucent panels, showing low stone walls and a central raised platform.

The settlement was elevated to capital of the province of Moesia Superior in the year 87 and housed the camp of Legio VII Claudia Pia Fidelis until the 4th century. Over the centuries the site developed into an important military and economic hub along the Danube frontier.

The bathing complex preserves rooms heated to different temperatures, where soldiers and residents once washed and met following Roman custom. Fragments of wall paintings on some surfaces hint at the decoration these baths offered to wealthier users.

The archaeological park opens daily from 9 AM to 7 PM throughout the year except January 1st, with night visits possible by arrangement. The sprawling site requires comfortable shoes and a few hours to explore the main areas.

Archaeologists have uncovered 16,000 graves so far, making this the Roman archaeological site with the highest number of documented burials. The necropolises spread across several areas and reveal burial customs from different social layers.