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Sexaginta Prista: Ruse's Roman Fortress on the Danube

Explore the ancient Roman fortress of Sexaginta Prista in Ruse, Bulgaria, and discover its rich history as a vital Danube River port and military stronghold.

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Explore the ancient Roman fortress of Sexaginta Prista in Ruse, Bulgaria, offering a glimpse into the past where Roman legions guarded the Danube River. Discover the remains of this once-vital port, complete with barracks and defensive structures, and learn about its Thracian origins and subsequent role in the Roman Empire.

A brief summary to “Sexaginta Prista” Port of the sixty ships fortress

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
  • Check the opening hours of the on-site museum for additional exhibits related to the fortress.
  • Take a stroll around the outdoor areas to enjoy the views of the Danube River.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the city center of Ruse, Sexaginta Prista is easily accessible on foot. Head towards ul. Tsar Kaloyan 2. The fortress is a prominent historical landmark and should be easy to find.

  • Public Transport

    Ruse has a public transportation system consisting of buses and trolleybuses. Check local bus routes for the nearest stop to Sexaginta Prista. A single fare costs approximately 1 BGN. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the fortress.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Ruse. Inform the driver to take you to ul. Tsar Kaloyan 2. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 5 and 10 BGN.

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Discover more about “Sexaginta Prista” Port of the sixty ships fortress

Sexaginta Prista, meaning 'The Port of Sixty Ships,' is an ancient Roman fortress located in Ruse, Bulgaria. This historical site offers a captivating journey into the past, revealing the strategic importance of the Danube River throughout history. The story of Sexaginta Prista began long before the Romans arrived. The location was originally a Thracian settlement, as evidenced by a Thracian jug dating back to the 2nd to 1st century BC. Recognizing the site's strategic value, the Romans established a fortress to protect and control the Danube frontier. Built in 69 AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, the base housed about 600 Roman soldiers. The fortress is mentioned in the writings of Claudius Ptolemy and in the itinerary of Emperor Antoninus Pius, highlighting its significance in the Roman world. It served as a military outpost and a hub for economic activity, facilitating trade along the Danube. Visitors can explore the remnants of the fortress, including stone walls and foundations that reveal the layout of a Roman military camp. The site showcases a blend of Roman and Thracian influences, with discoveries like Rhodian ceramic vessels from the 3rd century BC indicating active trade and cultural exchange. In 2006, archaeologists found the remains of a Roman military ship, further emphasizing the port's naval importance. During World War II, the Nazis controlled the region and used the site as a bunker. Visitors can walk through the bunker to a recreation of a Roman funeral vault. Sexaginta Prista faced numerous challenges from invading forces and was eventually destroyed at the end of the 6th century. In the 9th and 10th centuries, a medieval settlement emerged on its ruins, evolving into the modern city of Ruse. Today, Sexaginta Prista is an open-air exposition of the Regional History Museum Ruse. A reconstructed wooden watchtower and a scaled model of a Roman river ship are among the main attractions.

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