Abrit: Holiday Apartments and Holiday Homes

Culture and History

Abrit is home to Zaldapa, a fortified ancient center: the site is located in the village of Kaleto between Abrit and Dobrin and is considered the largest fortified ancient center in present-day Dobruja. The fortress had 32 towers and five gates. The excavated remains include a civil basilica, an early Christian church, and a large water reservoir.

Zaldapa occupied a central position in the Roman defense system established in Dobruja after 272. The settlement near Abrit was initially identified with ancient Abritus and was later associated with the elusive city of Zaldapa.

Location and Structure

The Zaldapa site occupies a peninsula 1,200 meters long and up to 500 meters wide. It is bordered by a deep valley to the east, north, and northwest, and by a side ravine to the southwest and west. Only the southern part of the peninsula was fortified. The northern part, as well as the valleys immediately east and west of the fortified area, probably contained Zaldapa’s quarters.

Archaeology

In the immediate vicinity, at the necropolis closer to Abrit, the construction of the Abrit Reservoir uncovered ancient burials. The finds included ceramic vessels, coins, and various metal objects. Archaeological work at the necropolis also identified a shaft tomb with rich grave goods dating from the second half of the 4th century. The necropolis also contains burials according to Christian rites.

Basilica No. 2 is a three-naved basilica with a three-sided apse, narthex, and three-part atrium. Its central nave had a marble floor, while the walls were decorated with mosaics on a gold background; more than 3,000 tesserae were discovered. The archaeological work also revealed richly ornamented marble slabs from a chancel screen.

The apse of Basilica No. 2 had a synthronon with an ambulatory. Such a feature has not been recorded in the approximately 60 other early Christian churches in Scythia.

Visiting and Surroundings

The Abrit Reservoir is a local attraction. A hotel with 30 beds, a restaurant, parking, and a summer garden was built on its shore.

If you choose Abrit as your travel destination, renting a holiday apartment can be part of your travel planning.

Zaldapa can be reached on foot. Visitors unfamiliar with the area around Zaldapa are advised to arrange a local guide. Access to Zaldapa is free; stay on the designated paths. The site is associated with walks, picnics, orienteering, and hiking excursions. The visiting period is from April to October, and a visit is estimated to last 50 to 60 minutes.

To the main travel overview: Krushari.