Porolissum - Fortress

The most dominant and iconic feature at Porolissum is the fortress on Pomet hill. Measuring approximately 290 x 220 meters, the fortress housed auxiliary soldiers, small detachments of legionary soldiers, officers, and equipment. Like all Roman fortresses, there were four gates, the main gate being the Porta Praetoria. Near the center of the fortress was the command building. principia, which served both domestic and administrative functions for the commander of Porolissum's troops. Barracks and storage buildings filled most of the area within the walls of the fortress; however, none are exposed for viewing by the public. In addition to the four gates, the perimeter walls, paved streets, and the principia, visitors will see a cistern at the highest point of the terrain. It is worth trekking uphill to the east corner of the fortress, which commands an amazing view of the countryside around Porolissum. Evening visitors should sit on the west wall to enjoy the sunset.

Chronologically, there are three primary phases. When the Romans settled Porolissum in A.D. 106, at least three timber fortresses were constructed at or near Porolissum, including one on the location of the stone fortress. The stone fortress was built by the mid-2nd century, during the reign of Antoninus Pius. At this time, the three wooden fortresses were dismantled and all soldiers were consolidated into the fortress on Pomet Hill. A major renovation of the fortress was undertaken in the early 3rd century.
(composed 2015 for website of Transylvania Alive Association for Cultural Heritage) 

 

Fortress at Porolissum. (photo Eric De Sena, 2015)