Ancient Town Augusta Traiana

Emperor Trajan (98-117 AD) laid the foundation for the city and named it after himself, but its construction began under Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180 AD). During this period, a network of roads, water supply, and sewage systems was built, along with public and private buildings. The city was encircled by two fortress walls with approximately 40 towers, eleven of which have been discovered, along with the southern and western city gates. Augusta Traiana was granted the right to mint its own bronze coins, a practice that continued for over a hundred years. In addition to churches, basilicas, and baths, there was a theater building, markets, and a forum complex. A theatron with ten amphitheater-style stone rows served for assemblies, performances, and gladiatorial contests. North of it were baths, which also functioned as an educational center and housed the Gymnasium of the Severans in the early 3rd century. In the mid-5th century, the city was destroyed by Hunnish raids under Attila. From the 4th to the 6th century, when the city was known as Beroe, it experienced a history marked by the relocation of the capital to Constantinople, Christianization, and invasions by Goths, Huns, Slavs, Avars, and Proto-Bulgarians.

The ancient city of Augusta Traiana is situated at an elevation of approximately 218 m above sea level in the central part of the modern city of Stara Zagora, in the Stara Zagora district, Bulgaria.

The remains of the ancient city are now accessible to visitors. The forum complex, with its tribune, is used as a stage for cultural events such as opera, theater, and ballet performances, as well as festivals. Visits can be arranged by appointment at the Regional Historical Museum in Stara Zagora.