Apulum

Apulum was one of the most important and largest ancient Roman centers in the province of Dacia, located in present-day Alba Iulia, Romania. Established in the early 2nd century AD after the Roman conquest of Dacia by Emperor Trajan, it served as the permanent base for the Legio XIII Gemina. Due to its strategic location and military presence, a thriving civilian settlement and a prestigious municipium grew around the fortress, eventually becoming the capital of the sub-province Dacia Apulensis.

Today, visitors exploring Alba Iulia can still discover the fascinating remnants of this ancient superpower. The layout of the modern Alba Carolina Citadel, a star-shaped fortress built much later, partially preserves the footprint of the original Roman castrum. Archaeological excavations have revealed impressive defensive walls, gates, and parts of the Roman headquarters (principia).

The site offers a profound journey into Roman military engineering and provincial life. The Lapidarium and the nearby National Museum of the Union house an extensive collection of Roman artifacts, including intricate stone carvings, statues, and daily objects unearthed from the Apulum site. Walking through the historical center is a unique experience where Roman, medieval, and Habsburg layers of history seamlessly blend together.