Antique Forum, Stara Zagora Travel Guide

The Antique Forum Augusta Trayana, located in the heart of Stara Zagora, offers a captivating glimpse into the Roman era of this Bulgarian city. Discovered in 1968, the forum complex represents one of the most monumental installations in the ancient city of Augusta Trayana, founded by Emperor Trajan in the early 2nd century AD.Spanning over 7 decares, the archaeological site reveals the remains of a once-bustling city center. Visitors can explore the remnants of a stone-paved square, an amphitheater that once accommodated over 1,300 spectators, thermal baths, fortress walls, and the western gate. The forum served as a cultural and entertainment hub, hosting gladiator fights, theatrical performances, and public gatherings.Today, the Antique Forum Augusta Trayana is not only a historical landmark but also a vibrant cultural space. A modern tribune has been constructed, transforming the ancient site into a stage for opera, theater, ballet, and festival events. Walking through the ruins, one can almost hear the echoes of Roman music, the clash of gladiatorial steel, and the lively chatter of citizens from a bygone era.