Major Roman agricultural and residential complex discovered in Split

Salona site (Photo credit: Bernard Gagnon/CC BY-SA 4.0)

A significant archaeological discovery has been made in the Mostine area of Split, where experts have uncovered a large residential and economic complex dating back to antiquity.

The site, believed to originate as early as the 1st century, was discovered during excavation works led by archaeologist Eduard Visković and his team from the company Kantharos, Slobodna Dalmacija writes.

Initial exploratory trenches quickly revealed the threshold of what has now been identified as the entrance to a vast complex covering approximately 2,000 square metres.

The structure is notably well preserved, with stone walls standing up to 1.5 metres high and retaining high-quality plaster.

Six large rooms have so far been identified, including one measuring around 300 square metres. Despite challenges posed by persistent groundwater at the site, excavation work has continued to yield important findings.

Archaeological evidence strongly suggests the complex functioned as a major agricultural processing facility linked to the wider area of Salona, once a prominent Roman centre.

Discoveries include:

• Structural remains of olive oil production equipment, including a press base (torcular)

• Channels used to transport oil into collection basins

• A cistern or storage facility

• Fragments of amphorae and other ceramic vessels

These findings indicate intensive agricultural activity, particularly in the processing of produce such as olives.

In addition to its economic function, the complex appears to have included a residential section, likely a villa rustica belonging to a wealthy landowner.

Supporting evidence includes:

• Tesserae from multicoloured mosaics

• Glass fragments and vessels

• Kitchen pottery

• Coins dating from the 2nd to the 6th century

These artefacts point to long-term occupation and a relatively high standard of living.

A well-constructed road, approximately 40 metres long, extends northwards from the entrance of the complex. Its quality suggests organised infrastructure and connectivity within the region.

According to archaeologists, no similarly large residential-economic complex has been found in the surrounding area, highlighting the importance of this discovery in understanding agricultural life in the Roman-era hinterland of Split.

Excavations are expected to continue for several more weeks. Following this phase, the site will be protected with geotextile covering and gravel until further research or conservation measures are undertaken.