Ancient Roman city opens to public in Bulgarian capital

The archaeological complex Serdica, which displays the remains of the Roman city discovered in 2010 during construction works of the subway, opened here on Wednesday.

The complex, partially covered with glass domes, consists of eight streets, an early Christian basilica, six large buildings and a late medieval church, located underground over an area of over 9,000 square meters.

Sofia actually lies on beauty that will be appreciated by tourists, Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said at the opening ceremony.

According to culture minister Vezhdi Rashidov, Rome is the only other European capital which has such a unique museum.

He recalled that the ancient Serdica was the favorite city of the Roman emperor Constantine the Great, who declared "Serdica is my Rome."

Decumanus Maximus, the main street of the ancient city, is among the major attractions of the complex that is located adjacent to the buildings of the Bulgarian council of ministers, the presidency and parliament.

The original pavement of this street is almost entirely preserved and visitors can walk on it.

Mosaic floors, inner courtyards, baths, toilets and parts of the water supply and sewage systems of Serdica are also displayed in the excavated buildings. Endit