Discovery by Haxhi Mehmetaj.
Municipality D. D. together with the Uplan community located in the wide mountainous area of the Drenica region (former municipality of Drenica, today part of the municipality of Skenderaj/Srbica), are making an important contribution to the great history of the Dardanian people, especially in the field of archaeology.
It is already known that the entire territory of Dardania is rich in numerous archaeological sites from the prehistoric, ancient, Roman and medieval periods. The discoveries made by archaeologists and researchers in recent years have shown that Dardania has been an important center of civilization since the earliest times.
One of the most important archaeological sites in the territory of Drenica (and beyond) is the site of Soçanicë (Socanica), located near the village of Soçanicë in the municipality of Skenderaj.
In this archaeological site, very important discoveries have been made in recent years. Among them stand out:
- Remains of an ancient Roman city (municipium)
- A large number of inscriptions and sculptures
- Traces of ancient metallurgical activity (especially related to the famous Trepça mines)
- Roman baths, temples, and administrative buildings
The site of Soçanicë is considered one of the most significant Roman centers in the territory of ancient Dardania (Upper Moesia). It is believed to have been an important administrative, economic and military center during the Roman period, largely due to its strategic position and proximity to rich mineral resources.
Special mention should be made of the discovery of inscriptions and other archaeological material that shed light on the daily life, administration, religion and economy of the Roman period in this part of the Balkans.
These discoveries are of extraordinary importance not only for the local history of Drenica and Kosovo, but also for the wider understanding of the history of the Roman Empire in the province of Moesia Superior / Dardania.
Note
Soçanicë is a well-known Roman archaeological site near Leposavić / Soçanicë in northern Kosovo, famous for Roman-era remains, including a dedication to Antinous and evidence of mining activity linked to the broader Trepça complex.
The article highlights recent or ongoing archaeological work in the Drenica region, emphasizing the importance of these finds for Albanian/Dardanian heritage.
