ANCIENT CEMETERY DISCOVERED AT KASTEL

Participants of the 2024 Kastel Archaeology School, which gathered students from across Republika Srpska, have delved into the rich history of this fortress, uncovering artifacts from ancient times.

Under the guidance of their mentors, they conducted archaeological excavations and research at the fortress. All findings will be used for scientific and educational purposes.

Senior archaeological associate Boris Radić explained that this is a multi-year project that also serves as a revision excavation.

“We worked with students from the Faculty of Philosophy in Banja Luka and East Sarajevo, along with archaeology and history students. Professor Slaviša Perić led the excavations with my expert supervision on behalf of the Institute for the Protection of Cultural-Historical and Natural Heritage,” said Radić.

According to Radić, they discovered a cemetery previously unknown to exist at Kastel, which appears to date back to ancient times.

“We’re not yet certain until analyses are completed, which we’ll conduct once funds are approved to cover laboratory costs,” Radić stated, as reported by Glas Srpske. He also noted the discovery of a late antique coin from the fourth century.

“This year, we had 20 participants and an excellent group of students who were hardworking and eager, and I’m very pleased with their efforts,” Radić added.

The research is conducted at Kastel due to its continuous historical layers, from prehistoric to modern times.

“The fortress is centrally located and accessible, making it easy to present our findings to the public,” said Radić.

He also mentioned the organization of a small archaeology school for primary students from first to fifth grade, aimed at introducing them to field archaeology and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

“A mock site was created with artifacts buried in the ground to help them understand the process of excavation and discovery,” Radić explained.

In addition to fieldwork, the organizers arranged afternoon lectures at the Museum of Republika Srpska, where experts from various fields of archaeology and museology shared their knowledge.

The Museum of Republika Srpska implemented this project in collaboration with the Archaeological Society of RS, the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Banja Luka, and the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of East Sarajevo, with the consent of the Institute for the Protection of Cultural-Historical and Natural Heritage of RS. The project was co-financed by the Ministry of Education and Culture of RS and the City of Banja Luka.