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The Roman fort in Iža is a frontier fortress of the Roman Empire on the Danube, opposite the legionary camp of Brigetio (today Ó-Szőny). Archaeological research at the site has been carried out since the beginning of the 20th century... more
The Roman fort in Iža is a frontier fortress of the Roman Empire on the Danube, opposite the legionary camp of Brigetio (today Ó-Szőny). Archaeological research at the site has been carried out since the beginning of the 20th century until today. This publication presents rings and gems from the area of the military fort and its immediate surroundings. The finds are examined individually - as personal jewellery, but also in the context of the military environment and taking into account the findspot, where known.
In the publication they are divided according to the development phases of the site into two main groups from the period of the wood-and timber fort (174/175-179) and the stone fort (end of the 2nd - end of the 4th centuries). From the older period there are 10 rings and 1 gem, from the younger period 12 rings and 3 solitary gems. In addition, 2 rings with gems from the vicinity of the military camp and 1 gem found separately are also included in the collection.
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Rímsky vojenský tábor v Iži je pohraničná pevnosť Rímskej ríše na Dunaji oproti legionárskemu táboru Brigetio (dnes Ó-Szőny). Archeologický výskum na tomto mieste prebieha od začiatku 20. storočia až dodnes. Táto publikácia predstavuje prstene a gemy z areálu vojenskej pevnosti a jej bezprostredného okolia. Nálezy sú skúmané jednotlivo - ako osobné šperky, ale aj v kontexte vojenského prostredia a s prihliadnutím na nálezové okolnosti, ak sú známe.
V publikácii sú rozdelené podľa vývojových fáz lokality do dvoch hlavných skupín z obdobia drevozemného tábora (174/175-179) a kamenného hradiska (koniec 2. - koniec 4. storočia). Zo staršieho obdobia je 10 prsteňov (niektoré s gemami) a 1 samostatne nájdená gema, z mladšieho obdobia 12 prsteňov (niektoré s gemami a 3 samostatne nájdené gemy. Okrem toho sú do zbierky zaradené aj 2 prstene s gemami z okolia vojenského tábora a 1 gema nájdená samostatne.
Vysokoškolská učebnica zameraná na rímsky šperk. V jednotlivých kapitolách približuje študentom základné techniky jeho výroby, použité materiály ale aj spôsob nosenia alebo významné historické udalosti, ktoré mohli ovplyvniť zmenu dizajnu... more
Vysokoškolská učebnica zameraná na rímsky šperk. V jednotlivých kapitolách približuje študentom základné techniky jeho výroby, použité materiály ale aj spôsob nosenia alebo významné historické udalosti, ktoré mohli ovplyvniť zmenu dizajnu a spôsobu nosenia počas doby rímskej. Text je doplnený terminologickým slovníkom, obrazovou prílohou a ilustráciami. Publikovala Katedra klasickej archeológie, Filozofická fakulta Trnavskej univerzity v Trnave.

A college textbook focusing on Roman jewellery. In individual chapters, it introduces students to the basic techniques of its manufacture, the materials used, but also the way it was worn or the significant historical events that may have influenced the change in design and the way it was worn during the Roman period. The text is supplemented by a glossary of terms, an appendix and illustrations.Published by Department of Classical Archaeology, Faculty of Philospohy and Arts, Trnava University.
Roman rings from Gerulata (Finds from the excavations by Ľ. Kraskovská and M. Pichlerová in a new light). The paper presents the finds of Roman rings from the excavations of Ľ. Kraskovská and M. Pichlerová in the light of new information.... more
Roman rings from Gerulata (Finds from the excavations by Ľ. Kraskovská and M. Pichlerová in a new light). The paper presents the finds of Roman rings from the excavations of Ľ. Kraskovská and M. Pichlerová in the light of new information. The discovered rings were also evaluated in a chronological context and taking into consideration the way they were worn and the gender of their wearer. In both reports, a total of 18 items were published, 15 of which were available during the research and preparation of this paper. We were able to identify the characteristic decoration of engraved lines on the shoulders of the rings at the end of the 3rd century and during the 4th century A.D., which appears on several items. The question of the significance of the square plaque with the letter/number X was also addressed. According to the author, this ring might be related to a retired Roman veteran from Vindobona (LEG X GEMINA).
Im SNM – Archäologischem Museum und im SNM – Historischem Museum in Bratislava wird eine Kollektion von Gegenständen aufewahrt, die im Juni 1987 in dem Garten oberhalb der Kirche des Hl. Nikolaus auf dem Osthang des Bratislavaer... more
Im SNM – Archäologischem Museum und im SNM – Historischem Museum in Bratislava wird eine Kollektion von Gegenständen aufewahrt, die im Juni 1987 in dem Garten oberhalb der Kirche des Hl. Nikolaus auf dem Osthang des Bratislavaer Burghügels entdeckt wurde. Der Verband umfasst insgesamt 31 Artikel – Artefakte aus älteren Perioden sowie neuzeitliche Gegenstände. Aus diesem Grund handelt es sich um ein neuzeitliches Depot, das von seinem Besitzer aus unbekannten Gründen nicht abgehoben wurde. Die genaue Deponierungszeit von diesem Verband kann man nicht mal annähernd abschätzen, die Autoren lassen diese Frage deswegen vorerst ungelöst.
Die älteste Komponente des Befundes bilden zwei goldene Ringe aus Drahtspirale, so wie sie in der Jungbronzezeit im Karpatenbecken im Horizont Kurd B, Vb und in der Frühstufe der Gáva-Kultur vorkommen. Die meisten von derartig verzierten Goldgegenständen stammen aus dem Bereich der Pilinyer und der Gáva-Kultur der Jung- und Spätbronzezeit.
In die römische Kaiserzeit kann man den goldenen Ring mit Karneol-Gemme und das Karneol-Intaglio einordnen.
Die in den Ring eingesetzte Gemme trägt die Abbildung einer Männergestalt mit einer ungewöhnlichen Kombination von Symbolen – einem Helm und einem Globus (?) oder Keule. Mit dem Gesamtcharakter steht sie am nächsten zu den Abbildungen von Heroen und römischen Kaiser. Mit dem Motiv und der Ausführungstechnik entspricht sie den Gemmen aus dem 3. Jahrhundert v. Chr.
Das Motiv auf dem Karneol-Intaglio, datiert ins 2. Jahrhundert v. Chr., repräsentiert die stehende Fortuna mit typischen Attributen – einem Steuerruder und einem Füllhorn. In die römische Kaiserzeit kann man auch das Fragment von einem goldenen Ring aus dünnem Blechstück mit glattem unverziertem Reifen einordnen, der im 1.-3. Jahrhundert n. Chr. im Gebrauch war.
"Das Tema des Beitrags bilden vier römisch-kaiserzeitliche Ringe, gefunden im Kataster von Bratislava – Rusovce. Zwei von ihnen stammen aus Rettungsgrabungen des SNM – Archäologischen Museums. (Kat. Nr. 1 und 2). Die anderen zwei Ringe... more
"Das Tema des Beitrags bilden vier römisch-kaiserzeitliche Ringe, gefunden im Kataster von Bratislava – Rusovce.
Zwei von ihnen stammen aus Rettungsgrabungen des SNM – Archäologischen Museums. (Kat. Nr. 1 und 2).  Die anderen zwei Ringe stammen aus dem äußeren Dorfereich und sie wurden dem Museum von Privatbesitzern zum Dokumentieren zur Verfügung gestellt (Kat. Nr. 3 und 4). Der Verband von Siegelringen aus Bratislava – Rusovce ist heterogen. Für die Herstellung der 4 Ringe verwendete man unterschiedliche Materiale: Eisen, Bronze, Gold, Glaspaste, Halbedelsteine (Granat und weißer Onyx). Die Datierung aller dieser Funde zwischen das 2. Jahrhundert und den Anfang des 4. Jahrhunderts entspricht der historischen Entwicklung und archäologischen Funden aus dieser Fundstelle."
The studied group of Roman rings includes 110 pieces from private and museum's collections and from the excavations in the territory of Slovakia. They can be divided into l0 basic Typological groups. Between them are more unique... more
The studied group of Roman rings includes 110 pieces from private and museum's collections and from the excavations in the territory of Slovakia. They can be divided into l0 basic
Typological groups. Between them are more unique fingerings like Mithras ring from Brigetio surroundings or iron ring with Hercules intaglio from lža-Leányvár.
Diploma Thesis from 2003.
This work supposed to be published in 2017/2018 (including text update and latest available discoveries).
A finger ring inscribed with UTERE FELIX from Liptov. The paper is dealing with analysis of a finger ring from old private collections, which was reportedly found at “Liptovská Mara”. Provided that this information is true, it is the... more
A finger ring inscribed with UTERE FELIX from Liptov. The paper is dealing with analysis of a finger ring from old private collections, which was reportedly found at “Liptovská Mara”. Provided that this information is true, it is the second ring discovered at the said locality, dozens of kilometres away from the frontiers of a Roman
province. The finger ring is being analysed in terms of typology and compared to analogies known from various provinces of the Roman Empire, whereby the authors of the paper suppose that the ring has originated in the 3rd cent. AD. One part of the text is dealing with the inscription VTF (an abbreviation for “utere felix”) engraved in the bezel in the upper part of the ring. Separate evaluation of the state of preservation of the finger ring indicates that it has probably originated from one of Roman provinces and was used over a long time, during which it was maybe modified. The unknown archaeological context unfortunately did not enable to enhance the testimonial value of this piece of jewellery by further information.
During excavations int the Roman fort at Iža in 1983, a unique Roman gold ring was unearthed. This massive ring is decorated with engraved petals and floral motifs on the shoulders and opus interrasile on the top. In the centre of the top... more
During excavations int the Roman fort at Iža in 1983, a unique Roman gold ring was unearthed. This massive ring is decorated with engraved petals and floral motifs on the shoulders and opus interrasile on the top. In the centre of the top part is an oval opening with mounted gold poil portraying two figures facing each other. This scene is interpreted by T. Kolník as Victoria (right) crowning a Roman Caesar (left), in line with standard patterns on Roman coins. The gold foil was a later addition to the ring, and it is believed that the original mounting was probably a stone or gem, a presumption based on comparable jewellery from neighbouring countries. The location and typology of this ring date it back to the 3rd century A.D.
The importance of the small group of Roman gold jewellery from Gerulata (Rusovce) consists in its form and context, with notable interpretive value. Five items are known from the area of Rusovce and its close surroundings. Almost all of... more
The importance of the small group of Roman gold jewellery from Gerulata (Rusovce) consists in its form and context, with notable interpretive value. Five items are known from the area of Rusovce and its close surroundings. Almost all of them come from archaeological excavations, except for one ring (no. 5). Head decoration is represented by one earring and a pair of earrings. The analysis of the single earring (no. 1) and its technology of production pointed to a trade, personal or manufacturing relation between Gerulata and Scarbantia. The wire surface of the older single earring (no. 1) from the 1st–2nd century AD is compact and glossy and has tiny ends. The surface of other earrings (no. 2), dated to 3rd–4th century AD, shows visible lateral lines and is made of thin twisted gold plate. The bracelet (no. 3) is made of round golden pearls, beads of various shapes and a circular fastening. At least the last segment is here ascribed to the local, provincial workshop. The archaeological context of the bracelet with the circular bead points to the 3rd–4th centuries AD, despite the most frequent use of this decoration being documented for the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. A pendant (no. 4) from thin gold plate displays a scene of a trophaeum and the goddesses Victoria and Minerva or Libertas. It can be interpreted as personal talisman or amulet. The ring (no. 5) is a unique find. An analysis of the gemstone points to similar specimens from Carnuntum. The evaluation of this quite small group of jewels from the area of Rusovce also allowed to show relations between Gerulata and Scarbantia, possibly also with Carnuntum. For definitive future confirmation of the visual analysis, it could be helpful to undertake more detailed laboratory analysis of the materials‘ surface and structure.
The subject of the dissertation Thesis is Roman golden jewellery in the area of Pannonia Superior. The main purpose of the scientific research was building of catalogue of known jewels, interpretation of its wider context and contribution... more
The subject of the dissertation Thesis is Roman golden jewellery in the area of Pannonia Superior. The main purpose of the scientific research was building of catalogue of known jewels, interpretation of its wider context and contribution to the better understanding of jewellery in the mentioned area.
This text is concerning the history of archaeological research, character of gold and other materials used for jewellery and used techniques. The main methodical progress was based on mutual comparison of the jewels and confrontation with chosen jewel typologies. More than 500 specimens are divided according to the way of wearing to head-, neck- and hand decoration, with extra consideration on pendants and needles/pins. Thesis does not handle with objects indentified purely as dress decorations . Final text includes general evaluation, specialists vocabulary, abbreviations. In part II of the Thesis is text of the catalogue and part III includes images of the jewels, maps, charts and other images.

Thesis was successfully completed in 2013
Research Interests:
The paper presents two magical gems secured during a police raid in Slovakia. In 2017, during the police raid, two gems from the Middle East were secured in the Slovak territory. This type of gem is extremely rare and information about... more
The paper presents two magical gems secured during a police raid in Slovakia. In 2017, during the police raid, two gems from the Middle East were secured in the Slovak territory. This type of gem is extremely rare and information about the location and the circumstances of the finding could significantly affect their further interpretation. So far, only one magical gem has come from the Slovak territory, and it was from the village Abrahám.
Roman gemstone with depiction of young lady similar to Faustina Minor has been discovered in burial dated back to 10th Century A.D. Portraits of Anotninian emperors and their families were very popular in various kinds of art, including... more
Roman gemstone with depiction of young lady similar to Faustina Minor has been discovered in burial dated back to 10th Century A.D.
Portraits of Anotninian emperors and their families were very popular in various kinds of art, including glyptics. In this period we meet phenomena of private portraits depicted according to fashion od emperors family. Gemstone from Sereď is most probably one of them. In compare to portraits of Faustina Minor on gemstones, this depictions includes also jewellery (necklace, earrings) and pomegranate - symbol of godness  Venus.
Roman gemstones unearthed in the area of Bratislava-Devín confirm the present research findings. The author made a study of both gems with images of animals found in Devín Castle. The gemstone of the dog (No. 1) – originally dated... more
Roman gemstones unearthed in the area of Bratislava-Devín confirm the present research findings. The author made a study of both gems with images of animals found in Devín Castle.
The gemstone of the dog (No. 1) – originally dated between the 1st century B.C. and the 1st century A.D. – was re-assessed as belonging to the second half of the 2nd or 3rd century A.D., and was classifed as a carnelian gemstone. The gemstone of the bird (No. 2) was confrmed as belonging to the 1st century B.C., and the interpretation of the image is believed to be either a rooster or a buzzard.
"Unique find of an antique gem from Spišská Nová Ves – Smižianska roveň. The paper briefly presents the multicultural archaeological locality of Smižianska roveň on the cadastral border between the village of Smižany and the town of... more
"Unique find of an antique gem from Spišská Nová Ves – Smižianska roveň. The paper briefly presents the multicultural archaeological locality of Smižianska roveň on the cadastral border between the village of Smižany and the town of Spišská Nová Ves, and the analysis of one of the finds – a Roman gem from a follow-up excavation in 2013. The carnelian intaglio bears a left-side image of Cupid leaning on a club. In front of him in the left part of the gem is a column/pedestal with a round object in its upper part. The absence of any iconographic parallel and
a contrast in the design of the gem showing evident disproportions of the figure and an awkward depiction of the gesture of folded hands indicate that this type of depiction is not usual. The artefact analysed can be considered a unique find in Slovakia."
Searching the Roman port. About the beginnings of the systematic exploration of the bottom of the Danube river near Iža.  e Roman fort at Iža was a strategic advanced site of the Limes Romanus/Ripa Pannonica defence system opposite... more
Searching the Roman port. About the beginnings of the systematic exploration of the bottom of the Danube river near Iža.  e Roman fort at Iža was a strategic advanced site of the Limes Romanus/Ripa Pannonica defence system opposite Brigetio, on the northern bank of the Danube. So far there have been no targeted researches about the direct documents concerning supply and communication modes used in this site (in the context of the adjacent defence system). Historical records and early archaeological researches described walled structures with various interpretations (cloaca, pier). According to their position with regard to river course, it is possible to assume that such structures were used for bank defence purposes or as constructions of an independent port. In order to  nd an answer to this question, the authors of this paper have exploited both traditional and innovative methods (LIDAR, various types of sonars).
In antiquity, references to a very specific type of food began to appear for the first time in literary works. This food had already been noticed by the Greeks, who remained very skeptical about its consumption. The Romans, on the... more
In antiquity, references to a very specific type of food began to appear for the first time in literary works. This food had already been noticed by the Greeks, who remained very skeptical about its consumption. The Romans, on the contrary, highly valued it. It became very popular, especially with the wealthy class of Roman society. This food changed history at least once-when it became the tool for the murder of Emperor Claudius. And while Emperor Tiberius paid 200,000 sesterces to establish whether or not this was the best type of food, the Roman intelligent class warned ordinary people about it. We are talking about mushrooms, the food of the gods.
Available at: http://www.shnnitra.ff.ukf.sk/2018-roc-22-c-2/ Greek city- states included a comprehensive social system with regard to the political and socio-economic aspects of their inhabitants. Polis, regarded as political and... more
Available at:
http://www.shnnitra.ff.ukf.sk/2018-roc-22-c-2/

Greek city- states included a comprehensive social system with regard to the political and socio-economic aspects of their inhabitants. Polis, regarded as political and religious group of people, living in a particular area, was made up by three basic components: citizens, political constitution and territory. Citizens had been involved in the construction of public buildings as well as in various other activities. This is probably why the role of communites, which directly defined polis, was accentuated. Egalitarian character of the Greek society, dominated by Athenians, limited possibilities of portraying a particular individual. Tumultuous events of the Classical period brought to the forefront primarily military commanders and politicians. This trend was further deepend in the next centuries. While promoting equality, poleis appreciated beneficial acts and remarkable deeds of their citizens. Public places were filled by typified statues of andres agathoi. This statuary landscape of the Greek cities, partially preserved in epigraphic finds, almost dissapeared. Importance of euergetism increased in the Late Classical period, becoming one of the main funds for the maintenance of public life. Individual citizens were rewarded by honorific inscriptions, where other honors were often given (erecting a statue, giving a wreath, proclamation of praise, seats in the first place in cultural and sporting agones etc.). Hellenistic poleis – maintaining autonomy in the outermost sense - granted various honours and privileges to the members of royal dynasties and their close dignitaries. Particular emphasis was focused on military memorials, including equestrian statues, which became an integral part of the public monuments in antiquity.
Formulka VTERE FELIX bola v období mladšieho cisárstva súčasťou duchovnej aj materiálnej kultúry rímskej spoločnosti. Nálezy z územia dnešného Slovenska sú dokladom toho, že predmety s nápisom (spony, prstene, kovania opaskov) boli... more
Formulka VTERE FELIX bola v období mladšieho cisárstva súčasťou duchovnej aj materiálnej kultúry rímskej spoločnosti. Nálezy z územia dnešného Slovenska sú dokladom toho, že predmety s nápisom (spony, prstene, kovania opaskov) boli používané nielen na území rímskej provincie Pannonia, ale aj za hranicami impéria. Nález prsteňa a spony s týmto nápisom z lokalít vzdialených aj desiatky kilometrov od hraníc Rímskej ríše. V článku sú sumarizované dostupné informácie a zamýšľa sa nad identitou nositeľa a jeho vzťahu k Rímu.
Publikácia sumarizuje informácie o význame rímskych prsteňov v rímskej spoločnosti, ich vzhľade a predstavuje vybrané exempláre z územia dnešného Slovenska. Významnou časťou je pohľad antických autorov na možné funkcie prsteňa alebo gemy,... more
Publikácia sumarizuje informácie o význame rímskych prsteňov v rímskej spoločnosti, ich vzhľade a predstavuje vybrané exempláre z územia dnešného Slovenska. Významnou časťou je pohľad antických autorov na možné funkcie prsteňa alebo gemy, vďaka ktorému má čitateľ možnosť komplexnejšie pochopiť pohľad Rimanov na tento druh šperku. Autorka na príklade vybraných prsteňov z územia dnešného Slovenska ponúka možnú interpretáciu niektorých exemplárov v rámci historicko-geografického kontextu alebo poukazuje na jej limity v prostredí za hranicami Rímskej ríše.
The paper publishes a ring from quadi princely grave I in Krakovany-Stráže (Slovakia). The ring is reviewed in the context of princely graves I and II discovered in 1933 and 1939, respectively. The researchers’ notes reported more items... more
The paper publishes a ring from quadi princely grave I in Krakovany-Stráže (Slovakia). The ring is reviewed in the context of princely graves I and II discovered in 1933 and 1939, respectively. The researchers’ notes reported more items than were collected. within 80 years the missing items were gradually recovered. The purchased fibulae (Figs 1 and 2) demonstrate a high level of gold working. Regarding jewelry, it was
possible to document only a ring from grave 1 (bought in December 2015). It was subjected to metallographic and gemological studies which helped determine the composition of the metal, material of the centrally placed stone (almandine-pyrope) and small inserts placed around it (faceted glass). The shape of the item is similar to that of the Roman rings of the Guiraud 2d type. The authors analyzed some technological operations such as the method of decoration (engraved and embossed scenes, decorative stone setting techniques),
production defects, and surface wear. The comparison of the decoration elements with the details of the belt mounts from the grave established that the items displayed identical technologies and similar motifs. The results of the analyses suggest that the jewelry was made in the Germanic milieu and was influenced by the Roman fashion. It can be dated to the first half of the 3rd century AD. The authors believe the ring to be one of the first Germanic rings documented in the region inhabited by the quadi.
The ring was stolen from the Balneological Museum along with two butterfly brooches and a copy of the fibula on December 26, 2016.
The ring from Trenčín (Pollakova tehelňa site) is part of a larger set of items from the territory of presumed Germanic settlement. It is specific in terms of its material: a transparent glass gem with a transversal white vein on which... more
The ring from Trenčín (Pollakova tehelňa site) is part of a larger set of items from the territory of presumed Germanic settlement. It is specific in terms of its material: a transparent glass gem with a transversal
white vein on which the goddess Venus is depicted. Analogies of the ring and gem are known from various parts of the Roman empire and enable the item to be dated relatively reliably to the 1st century A.D., at the latest to the 1st half of the 2nd century.
We consider the ring to be one of the most interesting Roman imports from Trenčín and its surroundings, which might be linked Marcus Aurelius’ military campaign close to Laugaritio.
THE ARTEFACT HAS BEEN STOLEN IN NOVEMBER 2016!!!! IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY. Article deals about history of archaeological research, acquisition and basic technical details of unique golden ring... more
THE ARTEFACT HAS BEEN STOLEN IN NOVEMBER 2016!!!! IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY.

Article deals about history of archaeological research, acquisition and basic technical details of unique golden ring from Grave I in Krakovany - Stráže.
This ring was considered to be lost for more than 80 years.
Co-author: Vladimír Krupa.
Ring from the abundant grave I in Krakovany-Stráže. The discovery and finds of abundant princes’ graves are of European significance, including two graves from Stráže (today part of the municipality of Krakovany, SK). Part of the finds... more
Ring from the abundant grave I in Krakovany-Stráže. The discovery and finds of abundant princes’ graves are of European significance, including two graves from Stráže (today part of the municipality of Krakovany, SK). Part of the finds disappeared shortly afer their discovery (Grave I – 1933, Grave II – 1939) and despite huge efforts by experts, none of the missing jewellery was able to be found until 2015. The ring from Grave I, which is analysed in this article, is exceptional evidence of how Germanic society adopted a new type of jewellery and tried to reproduce it using Roman patterns, but with clear elements of their own. The authors date this step to the first half of the third century A.D. The study includes a gemmological analysis of the ring, which identified the individual materials used in the jewel.

(The ring and 3 silver butterffy-like clasps with golden decoration (2 originals + 1 copy) were stolen on 26th November 2016). :(

Article is in Slovak, with English resume.
In 2014 a unique burial was unearthed in Gerulata cemetery III, containing an unusual number of rings. The buried woman aged 40–49 had two rings on each hand, one of which was a signet ring with a gem depicting the Egyptian deities... more
In 2014 a unique burial was unearthed in Gerulata cemetery III, containing an unusual number of rings. The buried woman aged 40–49 had two rings on each hand, one of which was a signet ring with a gem depicting the Egyptian deities Serapis and Isis. Another unusual item was a bracelet composed of seven disks with side openings for a string. Two glazed vessels have enlarged the number of known vessels of this type from this site to 13 pieces.
Landscape aspect and natural conditions during Roman invasion into the Middle Danube and Western Carpathian Region in the 2nd century A.D. The report deals with the connection between the characteristics of the country, conditions of... more
Landscape aspect and natural conditions during Roman invasion into the Middle Danube and Western Carpathian Region in the 2nd century A.D. The report deals with the connection between the characteristics of the country, conditions of natural environment and the potential of the natural resources on the area of Western Carpathians and Northern Pannonia during Roman period (2nd century A. D.) with focus on Marcomannic Wars (166-180 A.D.). The presentation introduce results of several science divisions. The benefit of Landscape Ecology (landscaping), Physical Geography, Dendrology and Geology is in interpretation of natural conditions and proportions, of the landscape characteristics of Western Carpathians, as well as the possibilities of the shift of the invasion troops of Romans. The benefit of Geology of Ore Deposits is in interpretation of the occurence of ore, from the point of view of the Geology as a possible technological base of the significant resistance of German tribes. The benefit of Archaeology is in interpretation of the occurence of archaeological locations, where relicts of metallurgy - ruins which indicate a possible exploitation of local sources - are well known. And so, by integrating the current knowledge, the plastical picture of the particular age, is being created.
The river Váh is the longest river flowing through Slovak territory. It has got the overall length of 403 km. The goal of this submission is going to be the introduction of the potential of this waterway for the survey of underwater... more
The river Váh is the longest river flowing through Slovak territory. It has got the overall length of 403 km. The goal of this submission is going to be the introduction of the potential of this waterway for the survey of underwater archaeology. The character of this river has been gradually changing from a small stream to a river with the average flow of 196 m³/s in its mouth into Danube. There are several water projects built on the river with flooded archaeological localities. Fords crossed the waterway, and there were also bridges and different structures on wooden piers (watermills,..) built on it. The most important structures and changes of the flow were documented due to historical mapping. Remains of wooden constructions on the level of town Hlohovec (possibly of bridges) were in the past partly examined without any publication of the results. Another dozens of localities still await for its potential to be discovered.
Current extraction of gravel and an absence of a group of archaeologists with the ability to do surveys underwater, which has lasted until now, significantly endangers Slovak cultural heritage. This is one of the pilot submissions for the newly forming working group which would like to focus on underwater archaeology long-term.
Slovakia is landlocked country with rich hydrological network, which archaeological potential has not been yet fully recognized. There has been neither underwater excavation nor systematic survey done due to absence of archaeologists with... more
Slovakia is landlocked country with rich hydrological network, which archaeological potential has not been yet fully recognized.
There has been neither underwater excavation nor systematic survey done due to absence of archaeologists with the ability to do surveys underwater and suitable conditions. Therefore unformal „working group“ of archaeologist with interest in underwater archaeology and necessary skills was formed and one of our objectives is the implementation of the suitable research methods in our conditions.
Research Interests:
THE ARTEFACT HAS BEEN STOLEN IN NOVEMBER 2016!!!! IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY. The Balneological Museum in Piešťany (Slovakia) acquired goldring from grave of noble person in Krakovany – Stráže... more
THE ARTEFACT HAS BEEN STOLEN IN NOVEMBER 2016!!!! IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY.

The Balneological Museum in Piešťany (Slovakia) acquired goldring from grave of noble person in Krakovany – Stráže (Slovakia).
The ring was found by brickwork employees in 1930s´ but it have disappeared for almost 80 years. Analysis of decoration techniques confirms that the ring comes from Germanic workshop inspired by Romans. Belt decorations made of silver, golden and silver clasps from the Grave II are decorated with identical motifs.

Co-author - Vladimír Krupa
Zborník príspevkov je piatym exemplárom z plánovanej rady ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA, zameranej na antickú architektúru. Jeho hlavnou témou je predstavenie hodovania a hodovacích priestorov zvaných triclinium na príkladoch z... more
Zborník príspevkov je piatym exemplárom z plánovanej rady ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA, zameranej na antickú architektúru. Jeho hlavnou témou je predstavenie hodovania a hodovacích priestorov zvaných triclinium na príkladoch z Neapolského zálivu.

V úvodnej časti je predstavená oblasť záujmu – Neapolský záliv a život Rimanov v tomto kraji. Nasleduje príspevok dôležitý pre pochopenie spôsobu hodovania na Apeninskom polostrove - v prostredí Etruskov. Tí výrazne ovplyvnili aj rímsku tradíciu. Priebeh hodovania, vzhľad triclinia a zdroje našich informácií sú predstavené v samostatnej časti nazvanej "Hodovanie v rímskom tricliniu".
Posledná časť "Triclinium v architektúre. Príklady z Neapolského zálivu" predstavuje pohľad do rôznych hodovacích priestorov v Herculaneu alebo Pompejach. Autori príspevkov sa tu nesústredili len na zachovanú architektúru, ale zhromaždili aj informácie o najvýznamnejších umeleckých pamiatkach, archeologických nálezoch, zmienkach u antických autorov či zobrazeniach na iných pamiatkach.
Zborník ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA vznikol ako priestor, kde môžu primárne študenti a doktorandi publikovať svoje práce zamerané na problematiku antickej architektúry. Každé číslo má svoje tematické zameranie a čitateľ sa postupne... more
Zborník ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA vznikol ako priestor, kde môžu primárne študenti a doktorandi publikovať svoje práce zamerané na problematiku antickej architektúry. Každé číslo má svoje tematické zameranie a čitateľ sa postupne dozvie viac o terminológii, dochovaných pamiatkach aj autentických antických zdrojoch, ktoré nás o monumentoch informujú. V ďalších častiach zborníka predstavujú študenti vybrané príklady antickej architektúry z rôznych častí Rímskej ríše.

Predložený štvrtý diel zborníka je zameraný na prezentovanie rímskych víťazných oblúkov. V úvodnej časti sa príspevky zaoberajú terminológiou, významom a symbolikou tohto monumentu na základe informácií z rôznych druhov antických prameňov (4 príspevky). Ďalšie dve samostatné časti sú venované téme víťazných oblúkov na území Itálie (5 príspevkov) a Galie (1 príspevok).
Zborník príspevkov o antických vodovodoch je tretím exemplárom z plánovanej rady ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA, zameranej na antickú architektúru. V úvodnej časti je predstavená základná terminológia antických akvaduktov, spôsob ich... more
Zborník príspevkov o antických vodovodoch je tretím exemplárom z plánovanej rady ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA, zameranej na antickú architektúru. V úvodnej časti je predstavená základná terminológia antických akvaduktov, spôsob ich zhotovenia a zdroje informácií, z ktorých môžeme v dnešnej dobe vychádzať. Hlavná časť textu obsahuje príklady získavania a vedenia vody na území Stredomoria, vrátane Ríma, aj za hranicami Rímskej ríše. Autori príspevkov sa nesústredili len na zachovanú architektúru, ale zhromaždili aj informácie o najvýznamnejších umeleckých pamiatkach, zmienkach u antických autorov či zobrazeniach akvaduktov na iných pamiatkach.

The collection of papers on ancient aqueducts is the third copy of the planned series ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA, focusing on ancient architecture. The introductory part presents the basic terminology of ancient aqueducts, the way they were constructed, and the sources of information on which we can draw today. The main body of the text includes examples of water extraction and management in the Mediterranean area, including Rome, and beyond the Roman Empire. The authors have not only concentrated on the surviving architecture, but have also gathered information on the most important artistic monuments, mentions in ancient authors or depictions of aqueducts on other monuments.
Zborník príspevkov o antických chrámoch, svätyniach a héroách je druhým exemplárom z plánovanej rady ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA, zameranej na antickú architektúru. V úvodnej časti je predstavená základná terminológia antických... more
Zborník príspevkov o antických chrámoch, svätyniach a héroách je druhým exemplárom z plánovanej rady ARCHITECTURA ARCHAEOLOGICA ANTICA, zameranej na antickú architektúru. V úvodnej časti je predstavená základná terminológia antických chrámov a nasledujú dva tematické okruhy zamerané na chrámy, svätyne a héroony na trase plánovanej exkurzie (Heliopolis, Petra) a na iných územiach Rímskej ríše (Pula, Aennona, Olbia). Architektúra svätýn, chrámov a héroonov pokrýva obdobie od klasického a helenistického obdobia až do neskorej antiky. Autori príspevkov sa nesústredili len na zachovanú architektúru, ale zhromaždili aj informácie o najvýznamnejších umeleckých pamiatkach, zmienkach u antických autorov či zobrazeniach chrámov v novoveku.
Rímske kúpele sú pamiatkami na ktorých môžeme pozorovať vyspelosť rímskej architektúry (zásobovanie vodou, usporiadanie priestoru, konštrukcia stavieb, dekorácie priestorov). Vďaka informáciám z prác antických autorov poznáme aj pohľad... more
Rímske kúpele sú pamiatkami na ktorých môžeme pozorovať vyspelosť rímskej architektúry (zásobovanie vodou, usporiadanie priestoru, konštrukcia stavieb, dekorácie priestorov). Vďaka informáciám z prác antických autorov poznáme aj pohľad Rimanov na kúpeľníctvo či konkrétne kúpele, vďaka čomu môžeme tento typ stavieb považovať za zrkadlo antickej civilizácie.
Publikácia Thermae et Balnea predstavuje svet rímskych kúpeľov slovenským čitateľom. Súčasťou publikácie sú názory antických autorov, prehľad vývoja rímskych kúpeľov, príspevky o známych aj menej známych kúpeľoch v Ríme, Malej Ázii a samostatný príspevok je venovaný aj stavbám podobných kúpeľom na Slovensku a v tesnom susedstve.
Zborník prác vznikol v roku 2019 ako doplňujúca publikácia k exkurzii do Ríma, ktorú zorganizovala Katedra klasickej archeológie pre svojich študentov.
Na Bratislavskom hrade je do konca roka 2022 otvorená výstava s názvom Rimania a Slovensko. Sprístupňuje originály najvýznamnejších pamiatok, ktoré sa na územie Slovenska dostali v období antiky, často prostredníctvom obchodu alebo priamo... more
Na Bratislavskom hrade je do konca roka 2022 otvorená výstava s názvom Rimania a Slovensko. Sprístupňuje originály najvýznamnejších pamiatok, ktoré sa na územie Slovenska dostali v období antiky, často prostredníctvom obchodu alebo priamo s Rimanmi, ale aj v novoveku ako exponáty zo šľachtických zbierok.

An exhibition entitled Romans and Slovakia is open at Bratislava Castle until the end of 2022. It makes accessible the originals of the most important monuments that came to the territory of Slovakia in the Roman period, often through trade or directly with the Romans, but also in the modern period as exhibits from the collections of the aristocracy.
We cannot agree more with the foreword to the H20 theme, that it is crucial to study how ancient societies managed water to cover their complex needs. Our session, therefore, is open to scholars researching non central and non centralized... more
We cannot agree more with the foreword to the H20 theme, that it is crucial to study how ancient societies managed water to cover their complex needs. Our session, therefore, is open to scholars researching non central and non centralized water sources, which were developed on peripheries: geographical, ecological, climatological, economic, cultural, chronological, and social.
One would say that, under challenging circumstances, the accessibility and availability of water must limit the development of social structures. Some societies were able to create complex systems to maintain water sources, which complexity, eventually, had an impact on society itself. Our research of the arid Cretan landscape (late antiquity and Early Middle Ages), for example, confirms that people preferred to stay in difficult mountainous landscapes, due to their strategic advantages, despite the lack of a permanent water source. They created complex water tank systems to collect and deploy the limited rainfall, water leaking from the limestone bedrock, and seasonal river streams.
Although the water is usually thought of as simply the liquid necessary for human life (a concern which we share today), it is also essential for many technologies (e.g. irrigation, pottery production and many more), hygiene and medical interventions.
Freshwater is also a medium to move goods and people.
Contemporary research is usually focused on long distance trade but what about local inland transport? The smaller rivers are generally seen as just “silent witnesses” of landscape and human history. New underwater research shows that their sediments cover significant traces of human relationships with them (e.g. research of the Váh and Danube in Slovakia).
We are convinced that solutions, created, successfully applied, and used by societies on the periphery or during periods of crisis, can be used as inspiration for solving contemporary problems. It may even, in certain cases, suffice simply to copy them.

Do not hesitate to contribute to the session with your projects, research results, thoughts or plans . Contact us with any question, or concern.
We are building a dynamic session based on keynotes of the field leading scholars.
Organic finds from rivers and wetland environments are an extremely valuable source of information, but at the same time they require different handling, storage and preservation than objects from routine investigations. Their number and... more
Organic finds from rivers and wetland environments are an extremely valuable source of information, but at the same time they require different handling, storage and preservation than objects from routine investigations. Their number and size do not allow for large-scale conservation, therefore, following the Slovenian model, this paper comes up with a pilot solution - building an underwater repository of such finds. The first steps for the establishment have already been taken at Košariská lake, where archaeologists and divers are jointly monitoring the conditions of deposition and possible changes of the wood. We would like to coordinate further steps in close cooperation with the Monument Board of the Slovak Republic.
The history of road transportation reaches deep into the past. Even animals are creating their paths. A significant milestone in the research of road transportation is the discovery of wheeled wagons. With the wagon's arrival, old road... more
The history of road transportation reaches deep into the past. Even animals are creating their paths. A significant milestone in the research of road transportation is the discovery of wheeled wagons. With the wagon's arrival, old road relics started to emerge in the landscape, which can be studied and, on their basis, interpret past mobility and the relations of single landscape components to the human settlements. Important features highly influencing road transportation are mountains and water. On the example of the upper River Hron, it is possible to demonstrate the task of a point where the crossing of a vital obstacle as a river is in the settlement strategies, what it could say about the organization of the transportation and even cultural contacts. Case studies are the situations at wooden bridges in Nemecká - Zámostie, Slovenská Ľupča, Banská Bystrica - Iliaš, and Ostrá Lúka, where sounds from Iron Age, Middle Ages and Modern Age were documented. The contribution addresses the possibilities of digital presentation of past transportation heritage.
Searching the Roman port. About the beginnings of the systematic exploration of the bottom of the Danube River near Iža. The Roman fort at Iža was an advanced strategic site of the Limes Romanus/Ripa Pannonica defense system opposite... more
Searching the Roman port. About the beginnings of the systematic exploration of the bottom of the Danube River near Iža. The Roman fort at Iža was an advanced strategic site of the Limes Romanus/Ripa Pannonica defense system opposite Brigetio on the northern bank of the Danube. So far, there has been no targeted research about the direct documents concerning supply and communication modes used in this site (in the context of the adjacent defense system). Historical records and early archaeological research described walled structures with various interpretations (cloaca, pier). According to their position concerning the river course, it is possible to assume that such structures were used for bank defense purposes or as constructions of an independent port. To find an answer to this question, the authors of this paper have exploited both traditional and innovative methods (LIDAR, various types of sonars).

The paper is in Slovak with an extended English conclusion.
Die Grenzen des römischen Reiches wurden außer einer großen Armee auch durch Naturbarrieren beschützt – Flüsse, Seen oder Gebirge. Die Spuren römischer Aktivitäten findet man bis heute in der Donau oder in deren Altarmen.Im Umfeld unserer... more
Die Grenzen des römischen Reiches wurden außer einer großen Armee auch durch Naturbarrieren beschützt – Flüsse, Seen oder Gebirge. Die Spuren römischer Aktivitäten findet man bis heute in der Donau oder in deren Altarmen.Im Umfeld unserer Flüsse, wo es eine extreme Strömung und schlechte Sichtverhältnisse gibt, könnten die Archäologen ohne Zusammenarbeit mit Tauchinstruktoren und Spezialisten aus anderen
wissenschaftlichen Fächern (vor allem Hydrologie, Informationstechnologien, Geologie) gar nicht arbeiten.
Ein interdisziplinäres Team beschäftigt sich seit 2020 auch mit dem Gebiet des Donaubettes beim römischen Kastell in Iža. Im Sommer 2021 entdeckte man hier die Strukturen einer römischen Brücke, die einst das Legionslager Brigetio mit dem römischen Militärlager in Iža verbunden hat.
The paper presents details of a survey of the Danube river bed between Brigetium and the Roman military fort at Iža. The campaign took place in the summer of 2021.
Submerged Heritage is magazine issued by International Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Zadar (ICUA Zadar) that is presenting the underwater archeology and conservation projects conducted by ICUA Zadar members, members of associated... more
Submerged Heritage is magazine issued by International Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Zadar (ICUA Zadar) that is presenting the underwater archeology and conservation projects conducted by ICUA Zadar members, members of associated institutions and students.
The Roman camp in Iža (the Leányvár location) was built on the northern bank of the Danube, opposite the legion camp Brigetio (now Szőny, Hungary), only 4 km east of the confluence of the Danube and the Váh. The area was permanently... more
The Roman camp in Iža (the Leányvár location) was built on the northern bank of the Danube, opposite the legion camp Brigetio (now Szőny, Hungary), only 4 km east of the confluence of the Danube and the Váh. The area was permanently inhabited by the Romans from the period of the Marcomannic Wars until the last decades of the 4th century. The article summarizes the pilot survey of the Danube in the summer of 2020. During the survey we used various methods to identify structures in the Danube River.

The report was published in the yearbook Potopljena Baština/ Submerged Heritage 2020, published by ICUA Zadar. https://icua.hr/en/publications
The article presents the potential of Slovak waters for the investigation of the country’s cultural heritage in the context of the known archaeological finds. The goal of the article is to briefly introduce the character of hydrology at... more
The article presents the potential of Slovak waters for the investigation of the country’s cultural heritage in the context of the known  archaeological finds. The goal of the article is to briefly introduce the character of hydrology at the territory of Slovakia, summarize the currently known information on finds from the water environment and identify the most endangered sites. At the same time, the authors point to the complications of this specific branch of archaeology and try to suggest further steps for its development and continuation.
The Váh River is the longest Slovak river and at least from the Middle Ages it has been both an important traffic artery and a border, separating two banks that had to be connected with a bridge. For this purpose... more
The  Váh  River  is  the  longest  Slovak  river  and  at  least  from  the  Middle  Ages  it  has  been  both an important traffic artery and a border, separating two banks that had to be connected with a bridge. For  this  purpose  fords,  ferries,  and  bridges  have  been  used  and  the  remains  of  these  structures are still visible at some points when the water level is reduced. This paper will focus on the mapping of important traffic hubs at the lower reaches of the Váh River and look  at  their  current  conditions and  their  informative  value.  In  particular,  the  area  of  the  Váh  near  the  town  Hlohovec(Trnava  Region,  Slovakia),  where  numerous  round  structures  are  visible  to  the  naked  eye,  attracts attention  and  in  recent  times  has  become  a  part  of  unwanted  interest  and  the  negative  interference from the ‘public’. In order to save as much information as possible, the attention of several scientific teams has, in recent years, begun to concentrate on the remains of the medieval (?) bridge.
Publikácia je poslednou zo štvordielnej vysokoškolskej učebnice „Úvod do štúdia klasickej archeológie“, ktorej predchádzajúce časti vychádzali postupne. Prvý diel obsahuje definíciu, chronologický rámec, dejiny bádania,... more
Publikácia je poslednou zo štvordielnej vysokoškolskej učebnice „Úvod do štúdia klasickej archeológie“, ktorej predchádzajúce časti vychádzali postupne. Prvý diel obsahuje definíciu, chronologický rámec, dejiny bádania, pramene, prehľad základnej metodológie a terminológie klasickej archeológie, významné inštitúcie i zaužívané princípy písania a citovania, a osobitná pozornosť je venovaná minojskej a mykénskej kultúre. Druhý diel je zameraný výlučne nagrécku antiku, kým tretí je vyhradený etruskej a rímskej civilizácii. Rozdelenie učebnice do štyroch častí nebolo náhodné. Vychádzalo z rozvrhnutia výučby, v centre ktorejstojí grécka a rímska antická spoločnosť so všetkými jej atribútmi, a to rovnako na materskom území, ako aj v gréckych kolóniách, rímskych provinciách a v priľahlých oblastiach. Texty dopĺňa bohatá obrazová príloha a odporúčaná literatúra.

Štvrtý diel pozostáva z dvoch častí. Prvyá z nich je zameraný na rímske provincie, na dejiny ich bádania, základnú chronológiu a pramene, a zároveň na ich definíciu, stručné dejiny, právny status a administratívnu správu. Osobitná pozornosť patrí vojenstvu a civilnému životu, ich základným formáma vybraným súčastiam materiálnej kultúry. Nemenej dôležité sú témy ako umenie, pohrebný rítus a funerálna architektúra, náboženstvo a synkretizmus, a zvlášť náboženstvo a kult v Panónii, ktoré uzatvára kapitola o významných zbierkových fondoch, múzeách a galériách.Druhá časť tohto dielu je venovaná okrajovým oblastiam antického sveta, ktorej ťažisko spočíva na tých etnikách (Skýti, Židia, Feničania, Kelti, Germáni, Sarmati)a územiach (Anatólia, Egypt), ktoré boli významne prepojené s gréckou či rímskou civilizáciou.

Učebnica sa v prvom rade obracia na súčasných a budúcich poslucháčov odboru klasická archeológia, ale aj príbuzných disciplín akými sú dejiny umenia a kultúry, estetika, výtvarné umenie, história, klasická filológia či religionistika. Rímskymi reáliami sausiluje oživiť oblasť rímskeho práva: verejného i súkromného. Očakávame, že predložená učebnica bude užitočná aj pre študentov a učiteľov stredných škôl a rovnako osloví aj záujemcov z radov širokej verejnosti. A to tým skôr, že elektronická podoba všetkých štyroch dielov publikácie bude dostupná na internete bez obmedzenia.