SOFIA.- History enthusiasts and archaeologists alike are buzzing with excitement following an extraordinary discovery at the Kokalyanski Urvich fortress near Sofia. A team of young archaeologists has unearthed a unique triangular stone tower, dating back to the late 2nd century, offering a rare glimpse into the region's ancient past.

The groundbreaking find was announced by Dr. Filip Petrunov and Violina Kiryakova, the lead archaeologists on the project. Their team made the discovery in the final days of their research, which was generously funded by the Sofia Municipality's "Culture" program.

"We were digging at a depth of 1.7 meters when we hit these massive stone structures with an unusual triangular plan," explained Dr. Petrunov. "It was immediately clear we had something special on our hands."

Experts believe the tower's construction is contemporary with the rise of Serdica, the Roman city that laid the foundation for modern-day Sofia. This makes the newly discovered tower the earliest structure found at Urvich to date, solidifying its strategic importance even in antiquity. Further supporting this theory, the oldest coins found at the site are from the reign of the Roman Emperor Caracalla (211–217 AD).

What's even more fascinating is that this triangular tower wasn't a one-off build. Archaeologists have found clear evidence of repeated modifications and reinforcements over the centuries, indicating its continuous strategic value. A particularly exciting find was a Byzantine coin from Emperor Isaac II Angelos (1185–1195 AD), suggesting significant renovations were made as late as the 12th century. This means the tower remained crucial for over a millennium!

Beyond the thrilling archaeological work, the National Museum of History is also focused on making this incredible site accessible to everyone. As part of their "The House of the Two-Headed Eagle" project, new informational signs have been installed at the fortress, guiding visitors and highlighting the most significant discoveries. The initiative aims to connect people with Bulgaria's rich cultural and historical heritage.

For those eager to learn more and follow new developments, you can visit the project's website at https://kokalyanskiurvich.com.

The Urvich fortress continues to unveil its secrets, taking us back to a time when Sofia was the bustling Roman city of Serdica. Each new find at this sacred site not only symbolizes resilience but also serves as an invaluable window into our shared past.