The Roman Castrum of Pietroasele
✨ Short Description
The Roman Castrum of Pietroasele is a fortification built by Emperor Constantine the Great in 332 AD, as part of a campaign to defend Constantinople. Located in Pietroasele, this site was discovered by accident in the 1990s, leading to archaeological research that uncovered Roman baths with a hypocaust system and four Roman necropolises.
📜 History of the Site
The Roman Castrum at Pietroasele was constructed in 332 AD during Constantine the Great’s military campaign, with the purpose of defending the Roman Empire’s borders and monitoring the Geto-Dacian population. It housed the 11th Claudia Legion, originating from Durostorum (modern-day Silistra, Bulgaria). The fortress was abandoned around 360 AD and remained buried for centuries, only to be rediscovered in the 1990s through archaeological research.
⭐ Importance and Uniqueness of the Location
The Castrum of Pietroasele is an important historical site, featuring defensive walls, Roman baths with a hypocaust system, and key archaeological remains. The Roman baths stand out due to their advanced construction techniques, including marble decorations and colored frescoes. These thermal baths offer valuable insight into daily life in the Roman Empire, particularly the habits of Roman soldiers and local inhabitants.
🐉 Local Myths and Stories
A Strategic Stronghold – The Castrum played a vital role in defending the Roman Empire’s frontier, witnessing many historical battles and events.
Link to the Pietroasele Treasure – The site is closely associated with the discovery of the “Cloșca cu Puii de Aur” (Golden Hen with Chicks) treasure in 1837, which brought international attention to the area.
🗺️ What to Visit
The Roman Castrum – The fort’s walls and defensive structures are partially visible at the archaeological site.
The Hypocaust Building – A Roman bath complex, featuring steam bath halls and hot water pools.
Roman Necropolis – Four necropolises have been uncovered, shedding light on Roman burial rituals and daily life.
📍 How to Get There
Access: The Castrum can be reached by car via DN1B, or by train, as Pietroasele is connected to the railroad linking Ploiești and Buzău.
GPS: N45.1, E26.566667
🔎 Things to Consider
Accessibility: Some parts of the site are not fully developed, and some ruins remain inaccessible without a guide. The tourist area is limited, making it most appealing to Roman history enthusiasts.
Ongoing Archaeological Research: The site is still under investigation, with periodic excavations taking place.
⏳ Visiting Program and Fees
Visiting: Guided tours are available, but tourist infrastructure is still developing, meaning it may not support large numbers of visitors.