Historical values

Archaeological sites

Nine basilicas have thus far been discovered in archaeological excavations in the old part of Ohrid. These basilicas were built during the 4th, 5th and beginning of the 6th centuries. They contain architectural and decorative characteristics that indisputably point to a strong ascent and glory of Lychnidos, the former name of the town. The structure of the city nucleus is also enriched by a large number of archaeological sites, with an emphasis on early Christian basilicas, which are also known for their mosaic floors.

A basilica has a nave and two aisles. The nave is divided from the aisles with a colonnade. The nave is always wider, even double, from the aisles. The nave’s roof is higher than the rest to provide space to the interior of the church.

Take a virtual tour inside the Archeological site Manchevci

• Have you ever wondered what a basilica is?
• Can you identify other archaeological sites of your city?
• Where are they placed? Can you imagine why they might be placed there?

Activity

Prepare a (real!) tour with your teammates at these archaeological sites of your city. Try to collaboratively discover connections among the pieces of information found at the sites, as it is a mission!

Actions:

• Observe the labels on the ruins.
• Ask historians and archaeologists at the sites and their museums, if any, about what you have observed.
• Note down historical facts, important dates and people.
• Gather together and cooperatively try to unify the pieces of information.

Results:

1. Can you place the pieces of information you found in the right chronological order?
2. Do they make up a story?
3. Do you need more clues to complete your story?
4. If yes, where would you search?
   1. Online,
   2. at books,
   3. by asking a professional (historian, archaeologist, architect, etc.),
   4. Or all of them?