Roman Castrum

The most impressive structure in the new archaeological park constructed in 2013 around the Iron Gates Region Museum of Drobeta is the pylon of the ancient Pons Traiani (Trajan’s Bridge), which once towered over the Danube. The arch bridge had 20 pillars spanning a length of 1,127m. It was up to 45m high (measured from the riverbed) or 19m (from the water surface). Its span length was 57m. It allowed legions to cross Danube without wetting their feet. Each end of the bridge was protected by a castrum. On today’s Romanian river bank, this was called Drobeta and lay by the settlement and military camp . This once walled camp will also be part of the park. It was 137.5m long, 123m wide, and covered 2 ha. On the Danube bank west of the fort there are the ruins of the Roman baths of ancient Drobeta. Bricks indicate the presence of the 5th Macedonica Legion of Roman forces.

Eventually dismantled by Emperor Hadrian, who was in fear of invasions, it may have been in use again under Severus and Constantine the Great, before finally being destroyed by the Danube waters. In 1856, all 20 pillars could still be admired by travellers, while, in 1906, two of the pillars were destroyed to open space for passing ships. In 1932, 16 remaining pillars were recorded but in 1982 only 12 existed. Now, there remains just the other entrance pillar on the right (Serbian) bank (near Kladovo). In future, it is expected that the new archaeological park may show up to four pillars when it is finished. There are also some Roman relics on display in the open air area, as well the foundations of an old basilica. In the yard of the Iron Gates Region Museum, there is a bronze bust of Apollodorus of Damascus (approx. 65-130 AD), the most famous ancient architect, who built the Danube bridge in 103-105 AD. Apollodorus criticised the emperor Trajan for his amateur plans for a new temple, and Trajan ordered his exile and finally execution in 130 AD. In 2013, construction works in the park were in progress.

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