Archaeological Research on Marafor in Poreč Completed

Archaeological research on the oldest square in Poreč, Marafor, has been completed within the deadline, and documentation, protection, temporary covering, and restoration to the original state are underway ahead of the tourist season. The research on Marafor Square was a prerequisite for obtaining a building permit, and it was conducted by the Regional Museum of Poreč in cooperation with Kapitel d.o.o.

During the research, the original Roman pavement of the forum was discovered, as well as the connection between Decumanus and the ancient square. A cistern from the Middle Ages was also discovered, located in the middle of the forum, which was mentioned as early as 1419 and was partially investigated. In addition, a prehistoric layer was found beneath the Roman forum, consisting mainly of ceramic objects that will be thoroughly analyzed, providing evidence of life in Poreč before the arrival of the Romans, i.e., more than 4,000 years ago. Various elements were also discovered in the side streets, such as cobblestones, stairs, and water drainage channels.

The research has provided a conservation and restoration basis, as well as a statics report, in accordance with the requirements of the conservation department, and inputs for the design of the main project and obtaining a building permit.

At today’s coordination meeting between representatives of the City and the Museum on the Square, it was noted that the bases should be ready by May, followed by the design of the main project and the cost estimate during the summer, in order to obtain a building permit by the end of summer or early autumn and proceed with the procurement of the restoration works on Marafor Square.