The Roman Fort at Hinova

The Roman fort at Hinova is among the most representative military constructions on the Danube frontier, part of the fortification system that guarded the northeast border of the Roman Empire. 

You will discover its ruins on the left bank of the Danube, north of the town of Hinova, near a former border guard post. Built at the end of the 3rd century AD, the Roman fort had the role of ensuring control over the ancient Danubius, as well as access to Dacia Ripensis. 

Destroyed in 378-379 and subsequently rebuilt, the fort existed until the beginning of the 5th century, being evidence of the continuity of habitation in the region of Danubian Dacia. 

Open a window to the grandeur of the past through a journey of story in the beautiful lands of Mehedinți!

Architectural Features

The Roman fort at Hinova has a rectangular plan, with dimensions of 45.85 × 39.80 m, occupying an area of approximately 1,825 sq m. In the construction of the defense wall, seven quadrangular towers were incorporated. The entrance gate was located on the southern side of the fortification, flanked by two rectangular towers. 

Archaeological data indicate the presence of 16 rooms, which served as living quarters for soldiers and fort personnel, some of which were used as armories. 

The only individualized dwelling in the fort is that of the commander, which had dimensions of 5 x 3.45 m. Inside the fortification, there were probably shelters for animals, as well as a food storage depot.

Invaluable treasures

In 1980, following archaeological excavations carried out within the perimeter of the fort at Hinova, an impressive prehistoric treasure was unearthed, containing no less than 9,639 pieces of gold, consisting of jewelry objects, with a total weight of nearly 5 kilograms. These reveal an extraordinary artistic sense of the master craftsmen, as well as the advanced level of gold processing methods at that time. 

A replica of the valuable treasure shines today in the permanent exhibition of the History-Archaeology Section of the Iron Gates Region Museum in Drobeta-Turnu Severin.

Unique Experiences

If you love history, we recommend visiting Drobeta-Turnu Severin during the two major events organized here: the Daco-Roman Drubeta Festival and the Medieval Festival of Severin's Citadel. You will witness parades, military training, and demonstrations, learn interesting moments from the ancestors' history, and participate in workshops and competitions proposed by the organizers. All of this in an atmosphere of music, dance, games, and good cheer. 

With music and dance, you will also encounter during the Severinul Estival event.