Archaeological excavations complementing the history of Novo mesto
Abstract
The article presents the evidence for the development of Novo mesto that has been obtained through archaeological research conducted in the last decade of the last millennium. The modest, but so far sole traces of an Early Medieval settlement (9th–10th Century) within the bounds of modern Novo mesto were discovered on the Kapitelj hill. This is the highest part of the meander, which has been occupied since the Late Bronze Age. Excavation uncovered finds from the 15th Century on Cvelbarjeva ulica at the eastern foot of the Kapitelj hill. These finds currently appear to be those closest in date to that of the foundation of the city. They also stand out in terms of their rarity within the bounds of modern Slovenia. The data from archaeological research complement historical theses, which are based on the study of archival sources. Charters link the river meander with the locations of the Stična or Bajnof tower, Gradec and Markstatt in the period prior the town was founded in 1364.
