Imported ceramics from the Roman camp at Almásfüzitő

Abstract

The resurgence of interest in the study of the limes in Hungary from the 1950s resulted in excavations in the vicinity of an unidentified fort at Almásfüzitő (Azaum/Odiavum) in the second half of the 20th century. The excavation of the auxiliary fortress of Azaum became imperative in 1959 due to external factors: the construction of a hydroelectric power station posed a threat, as the rising water level of the Danube endangered the then-presumed site of the camp. Ferenc Fülep from the Hungarian National Museum conducted an excavation in 1959 and 1960, identifying and investigating of the western gateway to the camp (porta principalis sinistra) and its semicircular extension from the 4th century AD. Additionally, distinct phases of the southwestern corner tower, characterised by rectangular and fan-shaped structures, were identified.
The unearthed artefacts were conveyed to the Kuny Domokos Museum in Tata. Consisting mainly of pottery fragments, the typological diversity, differences, and similarities of this find material may yield invaluable insights for accurately dating the various building periods of the camp. Additionally, a substantial number of terra sigillata fragments, representing diverse types and boasting numerous datable attributes, were discovered.