The National Institute of Cultural Heritage of Albania has announced a significant step in the preservation of cultural monuments with the restoration of the ancient Ad Quintum station. This historical site, an essential testimony to Roman culture, has been fully restored and returned to its optimal state, ensuring the safeguarding of its values for future generations.
Ad Quintum is an architectural complex dating back to the 2nd century, composed of a nymphaeum and baths. It was used as a road station along the Via Egnatia, a vital route connecting the Roman Empire’s eastern and western provinces. Road stations were crucial resting points where travelers and merchants could stop and rest for the night.
The Ad Quintum station is located on the right side of the national road connecting Elbasan and Durrës. The complex features a rectangular layout with an area of 130 m², consisting of several spaces including a dressing room, a warm room, a hot room, and a cold-water room. The dressing room was essential for linking the different sections of the station. Water supply was managed through channels from a reservoir located above the wall of the nymphaeum, while drainage was handled by a separate system.
The thermal baths and nymphaeum of Bradashesh are among the best-preserved Roman structures in Albania, and their restoration has been a priority. The restoration efforts included consolidating the structures, sealing cracks using injection techniques, reinforcing the masonry with horasan mortar, rebuilding and expanding the roof of the monument, implementing a drainage system, cleaning the facades from surface deposits, removing vegetation across the site, and placing an informative sign to educate visitors about its historical significance.
The successful restoration of the Ad Quintum station not only preserves an important part of Albania's ancient history but also enriches the nation's cultural heritage, allowing future generations to appreciate and learn from this Roman landmark.