The University of Sydney and the Institute of Archaeology in Belgrade, in partnership with the Museum of Srem and the Institute for Protection of Cultural Monuments in Sremska Mitrovica, are cooperating in a multi-year research project on a late antique building in Glac, near Sremska Mitrovica. The aim is to establish a centre that will explore and present discoveries of this archaeological site and enable students and young scholars to study ancient heritage using the latest scientific methods and technology.
At the end of the 19th century remains of extraordinary ancient buildings were found at the estate of Petar Glac (Peter Glatz), after whom the site is named. Further excavations uncovered mosaics and wall decorations made of luxurious materials. A geo-physical survey in 2014 showed that the remains of the ancient building spread over the surface of four hectares.
Glac is located about four kilometres from the ancient city of Sirmium that became one of four capitals of the Roman Empire in 3rd and 4th centuries. Ten Roman emperors were born in the Sirmium region. In the Epitome of the De Caesaribus, often attributed to Aurelius Victor, it is mentioned that Emperor Maximian built a palace nearby Sirmium, where his parents lived and worked wage-earning jobs. Based on this fact and the luxurious materials already found, archaeologists speculate that Glac may be the site of the palace of Roman Emperor Maximian Herculius.
Project „Glac” involves archaeological excavations, scientific interpretation, conservation and the establishment of a field school for Serbian, Australian and other international students and pupils. Ultimately the project has the objective to present the richness of the ancient heritage in the region, raise awareness of the importance of the protection of cultural heritage and support tourism and economic development of the local community.
Eighteen Roman emperors were born on Serbian soil. At least three of them built palaces: Galerius in Felix Romuliana, Maximinus Daia in Šarkamen and Constantine in Mediana. This Australian-Serbian research project will show whether Glac conceals another imperial palace in Serbia.
Project „Glac” is supported by the Serbian Ministry of Culture and Information, the Australian Embassy in Belgrade and the City of Sremska Mitrovica.