Diana

One of the largest and most preserved Roman fortifications – the castrum on the Danube is Diana Karatas (Lat. Statio Cataractum Diana). This fortified town on the Danube coast, built of ashlar, was erected during the time of Emperor Trajan as one of the bases for the War of Dacca, but also to ensure navigation on the Danube. In its time, Diana was the most significant fortress on the Upper Moesian limes built in a strategically significant location. Therefore, the permanent military crew was tasked with guarding the border and providing a downstream entrance to the canal. This rectangular castrum got its final appearance at the beginning of the 4th century, receiving two ramparts down the Danube. It was partially burned in the 4th century by the Goths, destroyed by the Huns in the middle of the 5th century, and restored by the Justinian at the beginning of the 6th century. At the end of the 6th century, during the Slovene – Avar invasion of the Balkans, this Roman fortress experienced a final breakdown. Previous research in the interior of the castrum, in addition to the remains of ramparts with towers and gates, found military barracks and other objects, while outside the ramparts – smaller settlements, docks, shrines and necropolises were found. That Diana, apart from its fortification significance, was also a significant economic center with a pier, is confirmed by numerous archeological findings – marble and bronze sculptures, finds of exceptional artistic craftsmanship and beauty, some of which are museum rarities and various objects for everyday use.

Diana is a cultural monument of great importance.