Medijana-Niš Archeological Site Protection Structure

Abstract

The "Medijana" project was designed to protect one of the most important archaeological excavation sites from the ancient Roman period in Serbia, and presented a significant challenge due to its location as a candidate for UNESCO heritage protection. In 2023, the project has been completed, with total covered surface of 12,000 m2, a main clear span of 80m and a length of 148m, one of the largest membrane structures in this region of Europe. The site-specific limitations and conditions required careful planning and logistics. As such, this project serves as a unique case study that illustrates the interplay between design, limitations, and consequently the need for innovative detailing and installation techniques. Through monitoring and observation over a period of 9 years, a wealth of information including wooden structuremembrane interaction, microclimatic conditions, and maintenance has been collected, which will be valuable for future developments, the field of membrane structures in cultural heritage applications and beyond. INTRODUCTIONThe archaeological site "Medijana" is located in the city of Niš in Serbia and is one of the most important sites from the ancient Roman period [1] . It is the birthplace of Constantine the Great, one of the most important Roman emperors who liberated Christianity and founded Constantinople, today's Istanbul, as the new capital and one of the most impressive cities of the present day. It is still a mystery whether the ruins and mosaics of the "Villa with Peristil" in Medijana, actually is the birthplace of the great emperor. The excavation operations at this site commenced nearly a century ago. Over the course of all these years, efforts were made to fully comprehend the significance of this location and establish the necessary measures to enhance its level of protection. Today the site is a candidate for UNESCO heritage protection [2] .The "Medijana" project introduces approaches to safeguarding this significant archaeological site through the implementation of a membrane cover. While the utilization of