| Duration: | 5 Hour(s) - 0 Minute(s) |
| Tour Category: | Half Day Tour |
Duration: 4-5 hours (contingent on road traffic)
The Ancient Citadel of Histria: A Gateway to Black Sea Antiquity
Nestled on the western shore of the Black Sea, the ancient citadel of Histria stands as a powerful testament to the rich tapestry of civilizations that once thrived in the region. Considered the oldest urban settlement on Romanian territory, this remarkable archaeological site offers an unparalleled glimpse into over a millennium of continuous human occupation, from its founding as a Greek colony to its eventual decline in the Byzantine era.
Foundation and Greek Prosperity
Founded around 657 BC by Ionian Greek settlers from Miletus, the city, also known as Istros, was strategically positioned near an ancient mouth of the Danube River (known as the Ister in antiquity). This location made it a primary hub for trade between the Greek world and the native Getae and Thracian populations, facilitating a flourishing economy based on grain, fish, and locally produced goods like pottery and metalwork
Today, the Histria archaeological site and its museum (founded in 1982) remain a vital historical resource, revealing new artifacts and insights into the past with each excavation season. Visitors can explore the impressive Roman-Byzantine walls, ancient streets, temple foundations, and the remains of Roman baths and residential houses, offering a tangible connection to the ancient world
Meet & Greet at the Passenger Pier, Speaking Guide.
Sightseeing of the port surroundings, including the Port Museum, Ex-Casino (under reconstruction), the Genovese Lighthouse, the Archaeology and History Museum, Ovid Square, Mamaia resort, Histria Citadel, and return. Histria is one of the oldest settlements in this part of Europe, dating back to the 6th century BC, and became a leading commercial center of the region for several centuries during the BC period.
In Histria, you will visit both the museum and the ruins of the citadel. On the way back, you will have a souvenir shopping stop in the center of Mamaia resort, before reaching the vessel.
Included Services:
Transport (Car/Van 8 seats/Minibus 19 seats)
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees (for all museums in the program)
Local taxes