Alba Carolina Fortress development and archaeology

The Alba Carolina Fortress in Alba Iulia is undergoing both commercial development and archaeological research.

Alba Iulia City Hall has initiated public auctions for the use of two commercial sites within the fortress. One 37-square-meter site in the fortification ditches is intended for a new public catering facility, involving the replacement of a degraded structure with a metal and glass building while preserving the historic walls. A second 145-square-meter area in Toboșarului Square is designated for commerce and terrace establishment.

Simultaneously, the ‘Gates of the Millennia’ archaeological project, led by Anca Timofan, has uncovered historical remains spanning two millennia. Excavations have identified elements from the Roman castrum of Apulum, medieval fortifications including St. George’s Gate and a medieval tower, and traces of an 18th-19th century Franciscan monastery. These findings document the site’s evolution from the Roman era through the medieval period to the Austrian administration period.