Early Christian Basilica Ruins

The Early Christian Basilica remains occupy the open public square positioned directly in front of the Citadel fortress entrance. The site is dated to the late…The Early Christian Basilica remains occupy the open public square positioned directly in front of the Citadel fortress entrance. The site is dated to the late fifth century or early sixth century based on archaeological assessment. The structural layout visible at ground level follows a classical basilica plan comprising a single nave (main central corridor) and an apse (semicircular altar area at the eastern end). Low stone walls outline and define this floor plan, revealing the building's original dimensions and internal spatial division. The ruins were discovered during extensive post-earthquake reconstruction efforts following the destructive 1979 seismic event that damaged much of the Old Town. The site remained buried and undetected until this reconstruction period brought excavation work to the area.

Interpretive signage and explanatory plaques are minimal at the site, with no substantial information provided to visitors. Visitors unfamiliar with early Christian basilica architecture can easily overlook the ruins, passing through the square without recognising the archaeological and historical significance of the exposed remains. This represents the oldest visible structural evidence within the entire Old Town walls, predating all the extant churches by several centuries. The basilica structure significantly precedes the medieval stone churches located elsewhere within the Old Town. Access to the ruins is entirely unrestricted and costs nothing. The site remains visible from the surrounding square at all times.