Römisches Institut der Görres-Gesellschaft
Constantian Basilica in Ostia antica
The German Archaeological Institute is excavating in Ostia Antica. The very extensive ancient city area now lies beneath a meadow. Only the bishop's complex on the outskirts of the city is being excavated. Only this complex is worth excavating because the ancient city was abandoned and plundered, so that most traces have been lost.
At the bishop's complex, which was the only remaining settlement area until the Middle Ages, before everything moved to Gregoropolis, the excavators – Norbert Zimmermann, Sabine Feist, Michael Heinzelmann and Emanuela Borgia – made spectacular finds that provide considerable insights into the city's development.
For example, the baptistery was uncovered, as well as the oldest bishop's audience hall ever found. Görres members Antun Kovcalija and Michal Kuzmiknski also took part in the second excavation campaign this summer.
- Details
- Written by: Stefan Heid
- Category: Roman notes