A significant Roman-era tomb, dating to the 3rd-4th centuries AD, has been unearthed in Strikçan, near Bulqiza, within Albania's Dibra region. Measuring approximately 9x6 meters, this monumental find is the first of its kind discovered in the area and features a rare bilingual inscription.
The inscription uniquely addresses both the deceased, identified as Gellianos, and the supreme Roman deity, Jupiter. The tomb's architecture, comprising a burial chamber, an antechamber, and a monumental staircase adorned with geometric motifs, suggests it functioned as a small mausoleum. Evidence of a wall discovered above the tomb further supports this interpretation.
The discovery was announced by Blendi Gonxhja, Albania's Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, who highlighted its importance for Albanian archaeology and cultural heritage. The excavation was part of the "Archaeological Research in the Bulqiza Valley" project, led by the Albanian Institute of Archaeology, with contributions from local experts, including academician Adem Bonguri and archaeologist Erikson Nikolli.
The presence of a bilingual Roman inscription in the Dibra region is particularly noteworthy, suggesting that the area was a significant cultural and religious hub during Roman times. Despite being subject to looting in antiquity, archaeologists recovered valuable artifacts, including glass vessels, bone combs, knives, and a substantial piece of textile interwoven with gold thread, used for shrouding the deceased. The use of gold thread indicates the high social standing of the interred individual.
The tomb's construction showcases advanced architectural knowledge, with large stones sourced from distant quarries and meticulously worked. The monumental staircase, decorative stucco, and precisely fitted stone blocks point to a high level of craftsmanship, reinforcing the notion of the occupant's distinguished status. This discovery is crucial for a deeper understanding and preservation of Albania's extensive cultural heritage, with ongoing research anticipated to reveal more about Roman life and religious practices in the region.