Recently discovered Basilica from Late Antiquity and a Tombstone Stela from Mramorak near Osmaci

Abstract

The territory of north-eastern Bosnia is one of the least explored parts of the Western Balkans in archaeology. In 2015, the remains of a double-naved basilica from Late Antiquity were discovered in the village of Mramorak, at the archeological site of Crkvina, in the municipality of Osmaci. A comparative overview of similar findings from north-eastern Bosnia is given in the introductory part of this paper in order to comprehend the importance of this finding as much as possible. This is followed by specific research results of the basilica from Late Antiquity from Mramorak. It is important to note that one tombstone stela from the period of the Principate has been discovered at this site. This is a high-quality monument as seen by the portraits of the decedents and their successors. It is a beautiful example of Roman stelas that has been discovered in the territory of present-day Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although the inscription field is physically damaged, the majority of the text can be reconstructed. This recently discovered basilica from Mramorak can be dated to the period from the 4th to 6th century, whereas the stela was probably produced in the 2nd century.