Temporary Roman fortifications in Muntenia: 01. Vâlcele

The temporary fort discovered at Vâlcele on satellite photos (Alexandru Odobescu commune, Călărași county) is located 29 km N-NW, in a straight line from the Durostorum (Silistra) fort, that is, at a distance of a one day march. The dimensions of the camp are 520/530 x 350 m (18.6 ha) and the orientation is approximately NE-SW. The contour is a continuous whitish stripe, originating from the enclosure wave. The darker outline that would correspond externally to the fortification ditch is not observed. Also, no interruptions can be observed that would mark the location of the gates. No disruption is observed that could have corresponded to the location of the gates, nor any other constructive structures. Inside the fortification, no other internal partitioning elements are observed. In the western proximity, 60 meters from the western side, a roughly square enclosure with a side of 50 meters is outlined (more pronounced than the large fortification), whose orientation is similar to that of the large fortification. On two opposite sides (north and south) two interruptions can be observed (one on each side) which may correspond to some entrances/gates. We cannot specify whether the two fortifications were contemporary, at least in part. If the two fortifications were contemporary, it would not be excluded that the small one was a training fort.