A video with The Roman Castrum of Potaissa:
A Glimpse into the Roman EmpireSpanning across 23 hectares on the "Citadel Hill" (Dealul Cetății), this fortress was once a bustling military city. Today, it stands as one of the largest and best-preserved military monuments in Southeastern Europe.
What to See on Site:
The Principia (Headquarters): The heart of the fortress, where the legion's treasury and standards were kept.
The Thermae (Public Baths): One of the most impressive structures, featuring the advanced hypocaust (underground heating) system that the Romans were famous for.
The Praetorian Gate: The massive eastern entrance that once welcomed thousands of soldiers.
The Bastions and Walls: Walk along the perimeter to see the defensive engineering that protected the empire's borders.
Why Visit Potaissa?History Unfiltered: Unlike many reconstructed sites, Potaissa offers an authentic, raw look at Roman ruins. You can touch the same stones laid by legionnaires in 168 AD.
Panoramic Views: Situated on a plateau, the Castrum offers the best 360-degree view of the modern city of Turda and the surrounding Transylvanian hills.
The "Turda History Museum" Connection: Most of the precious artifacts discovered here (statues, coins, inscriptions) are displayed in the Turda History Museum, located in the city center. We highly recommend visiting both!
Visitor InformationLocation Turda, Cluj County (On the hill overlooking the city)
Access Via Romană street (Accessible by car or a 20-min hike from the center)
Entrance Fee Usually free (Outdoor site)
Opening Hours Open 24/7 (Recommended: Daylight hours for visibility and safety)
Visit Duration 45 - 60 minutes
Practical Tips for Your VisitWear Comfortable Shoes: The site is an open field with uneven grass and stone paths.
Photography: The light at "Golden Hour" (just before sunset) is spectacular for capturing the ruins against the backdrop of the city.
No Facilities: There are no shops or restrooms on the hill itself. Make sure to have water with you, especially in summer.
Information Panels: Look for the bilingual (Romanian/English) plaques at each major ruin to understand exactly what you are looking at.
How to Combine Your TripThe Castrum is located only 4 km away from Salina Turda. Read about Salina Turda click HERE
Morning: Explore the depths of the Salt Mine.
Afternoon: Climb the hill to the Roman Castrum for a dose of history and a sunset view.
Frequently Asked Questions: The Roman Castrum of Potaissa1. What is the Roman Castrum of Potaissa?
The Castrum of Potaissa was a massive military fortification built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD (around 168 AD). it served as the permanent headquarters for the 5th Macedonian Legion (Legio V Macedonica). Today, it is one of the most significant archaeological monuments in Romania due to its size and state of preservation.
2. Where is it located?
The ruins are located on the Citadel Hill (Dealul Cetății) in the city of Turda, Cluj County. It is situated on a plateau overlooking the city, offering a strategic view that the Romans used to monitor the surrounding valley.
3. What can I see at the archaeological site today?
Visitors can explore the impressive remains of the Roman fortress, including:
-The Principia: The headquarters building and the administrative heart of the camp.
-The Praetoria Gate: One of the main entrances to the fortress.
-The Baths (Thermae): The remains of the sophisticated Roman heating and bathing system.
-The Defense Walls: Portions of the massive stone walls that once protected over 6.000 soldiers
4. How much does it cost to visit?
As of now, the site is an open-air archaeological park and access to the ruins on the hill is generally free of charge. However, it is highly recommended to also visit the Turda History Museum (located in the city center), where the most precious artifacts found at the castrum—such as coins, weapons, and statues—are displayed.
5. How long does a visit take?
A walk through the ruins takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. The site is quite large (spanning about 23 hectares), so wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended.
6. Can I visit the Castrum and Salina Turda on the same day?
Yes! They are located in the same city. The Roman Castrum is only about a 10-minute drive from Salina Turda. Visiting both offers a perfect day trip: a dive into the industrial salt mining history and a journey back to the Roman Empire.
7. Is the site accessible for people with disabilities?
Because the site consists of ancient ruins on a grassy plateau, the terrain can be uneven and rocky. While some parts are accessible, other areas (like the interior of the ruins) may be difficult to navigate for wheelchairs or strollers.
Extra Info:
Built by: Legio V Macedonica
Time Period: 2nd Century AD
Type: Largest auxiliary castrum in Roman Dacia
Location: Turda, Romania
