Excavations at an archaeological site in Suharekë are providing new evidence about the long history of the region. Medieval graves, coins, valuable objects and a rare inscription in Latin are shedding light on early Christianity in Dardania.
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On the hill near the village of Kastërc, archaeologists are uncovering traces from various historical periods. Kastërc Castle, also known as the Hisar of Kastërc, has become one of Kosovo’s archaeological sites of particular interest.
The findings so far include medieval graves, jewelry, coins, everyday objects and remains of religious structures. They show that the site was inhabited and used during different periods.
As Klan Kosova recently reported, around 120 graves have been discovered at the site. Among the artifacts presented are gold jewelry and old coins.
In October 2025, archaeologist Berat Ademi told KALLXO that 97 graves had been identified by that time, dating from the ninth to the 12th centuries. Subsequent discoveries show that their number has increased during ongoing research.
The basilica and traces of early Christianity
Among the most important discoveries at Kastërc Castle is the early Christian basilica, which, according to archaeological evidence, dates to the beginning of the sixth century.
Through its excavations, the Archaeological Institute of Kosovo has uncovered parts of the basilica’s structure, as well as traces of a baptistery and surrounding walls.
The medieval graves found within the complex show that the site continued to be used long after the basilica was built.
Another distinctive discovery is a broken roof tile bearing a Latin inscription. It mentions the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Archaeologist Berat Ademi has said that this is the first roof tile of its kind discovered in Kosovo. Dating to the beginning of the sixth century, it is regarded as important evidence for research into the spread of early Christianity in Dardania.
Traces dating back to the Eneolithic period and Justinian’s fortification
The history of the site is much older than the construction of the basilica. Kosovo’s official cultural heritage documentation links the earliest signs of the area’s use to the Eneolithic period.
During late antiquity, the settlement was reorganized and, under Emperor Justinian, was turned into a fortress. Its hilltop location and defensive structures attest to the role this area played in the life of that period.
The first archaeological research was carried out in 1986. Work continued in 2010 and 2011, when around 500 square meters of archaeological area were uncovered.
Among the documented objects are iron tools, pottery, earrings, rings, bracelets and coins.
Research and preservation of the site
Work at Kastërc Castle is continuing following last year’s discoveries. In August 2026, it was reported that the Archaeological Institute of Kosovo was conducting research in the area of the early Christian basilica and the surrounding spaces.
Nora Arapi-Krasniqi, acting deputy minister of Culture and Tourism, also visited the site and familiarized herself with the work firsthand.
In addition to the excavations, attention is being paid to protecting and conserving the structures that have been uncovered. The aim is to preserve them for future generations and develop Kastërc Castle as an important cultural tourism destination.
Nevertheless, preserving the site remains challenging, despite the significance of the discoveries. Berat Ademi previously warned that inadequate infrastructure and weather conditions could damage the archaeological structures.
The artifacts have been sent to the Archaeological Institute of Kosovo for analysis, conservation and scientific documentation. They are expected to be included later in scientific publications and public exhibitions.
The discoveries at Kastërc help deepen understanding of life, social organization, beliefs and burial practices in the territory of Kosovo over the centuries.
Images of the site and details about the discoveries were presented in Klan Kosova’s report.
