Transsylvania Nostra Journal

The article analyses the ruins from the point of view of the archaeologist involved in the process of research, rehabilitation and enhancement of these built structures. Always having a part of their history underground, ruins can only be restituted in their integrity through archaeological excavations. Taking into account the extreme fragility of these vestiges, we need to emphasize that ruins must not be dealt with only in the interest of science, instead they must be included as soon as possible in a preservation and conservation process. Different versions of archaeological research of ruins are presented, from research on limited surfaces, meant to establish the diagnosis (Citadel of Rupea), to extensive projects carried out in different stages (Citadel of Saschiz). Often archaeologists encounter ruins by chance, during rescue excavations, in which case only a mere scientific documentation is drafted (Alba Iulia). Archaeological research of ruins is not a mere removal of soil to make them visible, but requires thorough digging, through which the entire context of the ruin is observed and
recorded carefully. Besides the normal requirements of an archaeological excavation, the archaeologist must pay attention to the characteristics of built structures and their relationships, as well as be receptive to the demands of the other participants in the ruins rehabilitation process.
Keywords: ruins, archaeological sites, archaeological research, historic monuments, research project, restoration project