Roman Castle Novae

The origins of Novae date back to approximately 45 AD, when the VIII Legion Augusta established a military camp here. Initially, the complex covered an area of ten hectares, which later expanded to seventeen hectares. The fort, rectangular in shape and featuring gates in each wall, housed within its confines the legionary staff, a military hospital, officers' quarters, the legionary bath, and barracks for soldiers and auxiliary troops. Outside the fortress walls, a civilian settlement developed. In the 5th and 6th centuries, Novae transformed from a legionary fortress into an early Byzantine city and became an episcopal see. The last mention of the complex occurred in the early 7th century. Since 1968, Novae has been recognized as an architectural monument.

The remains of the Roman Fort Novae are located in Bulgaria, near the city of Svishtov in the Svishtov district, which belongs to the Veliko Tarnovo region. The site is situated at an elevation of approximately 39 meters above sea level.

Visitors today can explore the visible remains of the Roman fort. Information panels with computer-generated reconstructions of the former buildings and fortifications offer insights into its past splendor. A visitor center near the excavations displays recovered statues and coins. Particularly noteworthy are the remains of the hospital (valetudinarium) and the architecturally exceptional baptistery.

• Nikopol Fortress (Fortress), approx. 41.7 km away
• Ancient City of Nicopolis ad Istrum (Ancient Buildings), approx. 47.5 km away
• Rock Monastery of St. Archangel Michael (Sacred Building), approx. 48.8 km away
• Basarbovo Monastery (Басарбовски манастир) (Sacred Building), approx. 49.0 km away