Serdica

Serdica is an ancient city located in present-day Sofia, Bulgaria. It was founded in the 5th century BC by the Thracians and later became the capital of the Odrysian kingdom. The city's strategic location made it a significant center of trade and culture in the region. Serdica was known for its well-planned urban layout, with a central agora and a theater that could accommodate thousands of spectators. The city's prosperity was further enhanced by its proximity to the Iron Gates, a natural passage through the Balkan Mountains that facilitated trade routes between Europe and Asia.

During the Roman period, Serdica was renamed Serdica Augusta and became an important provincial capital. The Romans built numerous public buildings, including a forum, temples, and a basilica. The city's population grew significantly, and it became a center of Christianity. The first Christian martyrs in the region are said to have been martyred in Serdica.

In the 5th century AD, Serdica was conquered by the Goths and later by the Huns. The city's decline began in the 7th century when it was destroyed by the Slavs. The ruins of Serdica are still visible today, and the site is a popular tourist destination. The ancient city's remains include the Roman theater, the Roman forum, and the ancient walls. Serdica's history and archaeological significance make it an important site for understanding the cultural and historical development of the Balkans.