Risan
is situated in the northern part of Boka Kotorska Bay, in the territory
included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The territory of Risan dates
from the Illyrian and Hellenic - Roman period. The ancient city had a
very busy port and, according to the Tabulae Peutingeriana, it was situated
at the crossroads of the Roman military road from Epidaurus (Cavtat) towards
Scodra (Skadar).
The Roman Villa with mosaics, dating from the
2nd and early 3rd century AD, is located in the southeast part of Risan.
The excavated part of the villa has dimensions of 38m x 31m, comprising
a central courtyard - atrium with a row of rooms surrounding it. The walls
are visible as well as the rooms with floor mosaics. The mosaics demonstrate
different artistic styles composed in polychrome geometrical patterns,
one with a floral pattern and a rare representation of the reclining Hypnos,
god of sleep.
It is one of the most important archaeological
sites in Montenegro, and as such is designated as a protected cultural
monument. Its archaeological and cultural significance lies not only in
the site itself, but in the fact that it presents one part of a broader
cultural complex comprised of numerous and various cultural monuments
such as two important archaeological sites, underwater archaeological
sites, religious architecture, residential palaces, etc.
Threats
to the site are both of a natural and human nature. The lack of adequate
protection and proper maintenance has led to deterioration and structural
damage to some parts of the mosaics. Therefore, the proposal aims at conservation,
protection and presentation of the original structure of the remains of
the villa, and to open the site to the public through tourist and educational
programmes which will involve other sites in Risan.
The ancient Roman Villa could be a model for
the future presentation of archaeological sites in Risan, and be an important
reference point for development of cultural tourism and sustainable development
of the area of Boka Kotorska Bay and wider region, and similar sites along
the Adriatic coast presented as the Tabulae Peuntingeriana.
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