During excavations of a Roman Canabae Legionis (civil settlement) in Turda, Romania, a bronze box depicting a classical temple facade was discovered.
The Canabae Legionis developed around the military camp of the Legio V Macedonica, while the legion was stationed in Potaissa (now Turda) in the 3rd century AD.
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The Legio V Macedonica was formed sometime around 43 BC. Erected in the late Republic period, possibly under Gaius Octavius (the later Emperor Augustus).
During the early imperial period, the Legio V Macedonica served in several key provinces of the Roman Empire. It took part in the Dacian Wars under Emperor Trajan (101–106 AD) and contributed to Rome's conquest of the Dacian Kingdom and the founding of the province of Dacia.
The box was unearthed by archaeologists from the Turda History Museum while investigating a wealthy civilian residence. The box is a miniature in the design of classical temple architecture, complete with columns and a triangular pediment.
Experts say it likely served a religious function, possibly as a container for sacred offerings or devotional items.
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Several high-value items were also recovered, including personal ornaments such as glass jewelry, bone hairpins and bronze rings, as well as coins and several cult items. The excavation also unearthed pieces of furniture and decorative objects, in particular a bronze tripod leg with zoomorphic decorations.
Image source for header: Turda History Museum
Sources: Turda History Museum
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