This post shows contrast to that of my previous post, as it discusses how construction was actually halted due to the discovery of an archaeological site.
“We expected to find ruins from Ulpia Serdica, but not in such a good state of preservation and with the walls of buildings so intact” – Mario Ivanov, excavation director
In the Bulgarian capital of Sophia, before the construction of a new metro line, a large section of the center of the ancient Roman city of Ulpia Serdica has been uncovered. Some of the discoveries at Sophia include streets, a public bath with pools for cold and heated water, sewage canals, and spacious residences, many of which are decorated with colourful mosaics.
Unlike the case of Friedenshuetten in Pennsylvania, the construction around Ulpia Serdica was stopped in order for archaeological exploration to be conducted. Not only was construction halted, but the ancient city’s remains will be preserved, structures supported and restored. The site is planned to be open to visitors by the end of 2013.
I think that this is a good example of proper archaeological ethics at work as construction was halted and the proper excavation of the site was able to be conducted without any further pressures. The halting of this construction has allowed for an amazing discovery and can now further serve as a tourist attraction for Bulgaria.
Information from: "Mosaics from Where East Met West", Matthew Brunwasser
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