EXPLORATIONS OF THE FORTIFICATIONS OF DEULTUM (Lyudmil Vagalinski – lvagalin@techno-link.com) The main task was a reliable chronology to be prepared on the basis of exact stratigraphic data. The earliest cultural layers were not reached yet. Seventy-four stratified coins and a hoard of 43 coins (all of bronze) facilitated the preparation of an exact chronology. Seven building periods were established for the period from the 2nd to the 6th centuries AD. The seventh one dates to the 6th century AD. In that period, the demolished Early Byzantine fortification wall was used as a quarry for building material. During the sixth period (second half of the 5th century AD), the eastern fortification wall was built. The fifth period also dates to the second half of the 5th century AD and new blocking walls were constructed. The fourth period has the characteristics of the fifth one and dates after 425 AD. The third period dates between 222 AD and 375 AD and the old fortification wall was plastered. During the second period, which dates from 155 AD to 235 AD, the height of the old fortification wall was enlarged and it was reinforced. The first building period of the fortification wall dates before 156 AD and is the earliest one known so far. During the entire period of some 400 years, the direction of the fortification walls remained the same: oriented according to the four cardinal points. It seems that this direction was established with the Roman colony. Although Deultum was situated far from the Danubian Limes, enemies often attacked it: eight conflagrations were traced out for the period 2nd – 5th centuries. During the 6th century (after 498 AD), the ninth conflagration demolished the Early Byzantine eastern fortification wall. The coin hoard was buried during an enemy attack soon after 395 AD. The building activities during the second half of the 5th century AD are very impressive.