Exeter undergraduates Sophie Pallett and Cristina Crizbasan, recent graduate Jake Godfrey, graduate student Donna Thompson, and Exeter alumnus Emma Rosen are at Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa, the capital of Roman Dacia in Romania participating in a two week archaeological excavation. 

Sarmizegetusa, founded by Roman veterans of the Dacian war early in the second century, once had a population of over 20,000 and boasted an amphitheatre, several temples, and forum. Much of the site – including the forum and coliseum – has been excavated and turned into an archaeological park.

The coliseum at sunset. Credit: Donna Thompson

This year, Exeter students and students from Vienna, Heidelberg, and Romania, will participate in efforts to excavate the hypocaust of the governor’s mansion and to locate the north city gates. Students will also attend lectures on various aspects of Roman civilisation, visit local museums and archaeological sites, and tour the Transylvania region of Romania.

Excavation progress looking for the city gates. Credit: Donna Thompson.

Written by Donna Thompson, arranged by Emily Johnson.