Timacum Minus as the Crossroad between the Danube and Morava Velley

Abstract

The fortification and settlement of Timacum Minus was one of the first inland Roman centers of the Moesia Superior province, founded in the 1st century AD, at the place of a pre-Roman settlement. Its position in the Timok region, at the halfway from Danube to Morava Basin made it a crossroad from prehistory. During its long life, from the 1st to the mid-5rh century, Timacum Minus has transformed from a military logistic center for Dacian wars, to archeometallurgical center of mining territory and, finally, to castellum controlling the road along the Timok valley. It played a role in romanization of Moesia Superior and later in defense of Dacia Ripensis and other inland provinces (Dacia Mediterranea, Dardania) from “barbarian” invasions. Also, Timacum Minus played an important role in economy of Upper Moesia, especially during the second half of 2nd-the 3rd century, functioning as an administrative and metallurgical center of mining territory (Territoria metallorum), that is supported with epigraphic and archaeological evidence. Finally, from the 2nd to 4th century, Timacum Minus was an urban settlement with prominent population of the Roman army veterans who belonged to the local elite. Baths, villas and temples (dedicated to Jupiter, Diana and Mars) show its wealth and importance.