BALAKLAVA

Rescue excavation of an area rapidly annihilated by the residential development work. Earthworks in 1996/97, prior to the building of a new baptist church, uncovered remains of an ancient sacred precinct, built in the IInd century AD by the Roman soldiers for Jupiter Dolichenus outside of the territory of the neighbouring Greek town Chersonesos (now Sevastopol). The site offers therefore a chance to record one of the most exeptional historical monuments yet found in Europe. 100% destruction provokes a challenge to attempt at least 50% rescue.

By methodical work skill excavators (volunteers) help to ensure that the first Roman temple so far known on Balaklava. A clay mug found in the temple of Jupiter Dolichenus. Barbarian land is recorded and possibly also preserved in time. The last excavation campaign took place in 1999. The next one (final stratigraphical trenches and excavation in the adjacent area once covered by Roman military fort) is to be carried out in 2002 and 2003.

Further survey may bring into light other features linked with the religious life, as well as military installations of Roman fleet, auxiliary fort and fortlets between Sevalstopol and Balaklava. The works are urgent for the area is intensively developing and modern constructions have been carried out.