A New Chapter in the History of Ancient Naissus
Archaeologists Discover Additional Segments of Roman-Era Water System During Railway Bypass Works in Niš

During recent excavations as part of railway infrastructure works, archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery that sheds new light on the urban development of ancient Naissus. A newly uncovered section of the Roman aqueduct—an essential water supply system of the former Roman city—has been found.
Two Construction Phases Revealed Along the New Route
The research, conducted along the planned route of the Niš Railway Bypass, uncovered approximately 40 meters of the ancient aqueduct. Particularly noteworthy is the identification of two distinct phases of construction. The earlier phase features ceramic pipework, while the later phase reveals a built stone channel equipped with an inspection shaft. It indicates a technological advancement in the city’s water infrastructure over time.
Naissus – One of the Best-Studied Roman Aqueducts in Serbia
To date, archaeological teams have mapped approximately 200 meters of this ancient aqueduct across several sites in Niš. These findings position the Naissus aqueduct among the most thoroughly researched Roman water systems in present-day Serbia, underscoring the city’s importance during the Roman era.
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Reconstructing the Ancient Water Route
Based on the results of previous excavations and analyses, researchers believe that the aqueduct originated from a spring located above the village of Kamenica—most likely the source known as Srećkovo Vrelo. From there, the water flowed toward the urban center, passing through what is now Gornjomatejevačka Street, along Somborski Boulevard and the Pantelej Barracks, eventually reaching the area of today’s Niš Fortress. It is believed that a water reservoir was located there, distributing fresh water to different parts of the city.
Although the precise location of the main reservoir remains unknown, it is established that the aqueduct supplied clean drinking water to the inhabitants. It significantly improved the quality of urban life in ancient Naissus.
Construction in Line with the City’s Development
The aqueduct is dated to a period between the 3rd and 5th centuries AD. It was most likely constructed after Naissus gained city status within the Roman Empire. The infrastructure evolved alongside the city’s needs, particularly during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great. As the population grew and urbanization progressed, the demand for a more robust water supply system led to the construction of the second, later phase. It was a larger, masonry-built channel suitable for a greater number of users.
A Cultural Treasure of Great Importance
The remains of the Roman water system are not merely archaeological artifacts. They are a testament to advanced urban planning, engineering expertise, and daily life in antiquity. The city of Niš rightfully takes pride in this cultural heritage. It is not only rare but also stands as one of the best-documented ancient aqueducts in the region.
Discoveries like this not only enhance scholarly understanding of Roman heritage. It also pave the way for the development of cultural tourism, the interpretation of local history, and further archaeological explorations that may one day reveal more about the everyday lives of ancient Naissus’ inhabitants.
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