The Roman and early Byzantine city of Nicopolis ad Istrum is located 20 km north of Veliko Tarnovo. The city was founded by the Roman emperor Marcus Ulpius Trajan (98 – 117 AD) in honor of his victory over the Dacians (106 AD). Its strategic importance comes from its location. Two of the important roads in Lower Moesia intersect there.

It was originally within the borders of the province of Thrace. At the beginning of 193 AD, the city was transferred to the province of Lower Moesia. Its urban territory includes settlements, villas, and markets. It is organized in a manner similar to the cities in Asia Minor – Ephesus, Nicomedia, and Nicaea. The city’s necropolis is located on both sides of the road leading to Nove and around the communication leading westward. 121 mounds have been preserved from it.