Protective Structure Above Transept Basil

The project "PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE ABOVE TRANSEPT BASIL" presents a visionary approach to architectural heritage conservation, designing a protective structure above the archaeological remains of the Transept Basil—one of the most significant sacral buildings from the era of Emperor Justinian I. Alongside it, the proposal also develops a complementary protective envelope for an ancient thermal spa, reinterpreting historical spatial typologies through modern construction systems. Developed by Marta Adamovic, the project harmonizes advanced engineering with a deep respect for cultural memory, demonstrating how contemporary architecture can safeguard and revitalize ancient sites.

Best Institution for Graduation Projects entry of UnIATA '20

Historical Context and Significance

The basilica, once a vibrant spiritual and civic landmark, sits at the heart of Justinian I’s imperial city near Lebane in southern Serbia. The settlement, historically fortified and elevated, reveals a network of streets converging at the basilica—signifying its urban and ceremonial importance. The nearby thermal spa, rooted in Roman bathing culture, further expresses the region’s layered architectural heritage.

Preserving these ruins requires more than traditional restoration. It demands a structural intervention that protects fragile materials, clarifies spatial hierarchies, and presents the ancient complex to contemporary visitors without compromising its authenticity. This project achieves exactly that, by using modern design logic to elevate the visibility and legibility of archaeological heritage.

Design Philosophy: Contrast as a Principle

At the core of the project lies the principle of contrast—a dialogue between ancient stone foundations and lightweight modern construction. Instead of mimicking historical forms, the design adopts a contemporary tectonic language composed of double-curved roof planes, spatial arches, and steel frameworks that float lightly above the ruins.

This approach ensures:

• Full protection of the archaeological layers below
• Clear spatial legibility of the basilica’s functional hierarchy
• Modern aesthetics that enhance, rather than overwrite, historical identity
• A new architectural layer that remains respectfully distinguishable from the original structure

Through contrast, the project not only protects the site—but also interprets it, offering visitors a renewed understanding of its original scale and purpose.

Architectural Concept of the Transept Basil Structure

The protective structure above the basilica draws inspiration from its historic plan:

• Narthex
• Nave
• Bema/Chancel
• Transept
• Apse

A series of interwoven double-curved roof systems, derived from elliptical arches, create a rhythmic architectural shell that echoes the cadence of the former pillars. These vault-like planes are layered vertically to frame the spatial hierarchy of the basilica without physically touching the archaeological remains.

Key Features of the Construction

• Lightweight steel arches with precise geometric repetition
• Perforated protective surfaces that filter natural light
• Transparent structural elements revealing the ruins below
• A tectonic composition that suggests movement, flow, and sacred axis orientation

Exploded axonometries further reveal the sophistication of the interlocking planes, demonstrating how the form hovers above the basilica while maintaining structural independence.

Architectural Concept of the Ancient Thermal Spa Structure

The thermal spa’s protective structure references the spatial sequence of Roman bathing culture:

• Apodyterium (changing hall)
• Frigidarium (cold pool)
• Thermidarium (warm pool)
• Hypocaustic spa (heated chamber)
• Laconicum (sauna-like space)

The new roof system for the spa abstracts the domed geometries typical of ancient baths into a series of sweeping curved modules that gradually rise with the terrain. These layered curves create a dynamic canopy that enhances environmental performance while expressing the ceremonial nature of the bathing experience.

Contextual Integration and Construction Logic

Despite its modern appearance, the project remains deeply contextual. Its contrasts are intentional yet sensitive:

• The lightweight structural envelope responds to the fragility of the remains.
• Innovative construction technologies support long-span coverage without intrusive foundations.
• Material choices—steel, perforated panels, and transparent glazing—create an atmosphere of openness and visual continuity.

The architecture becomes both shelter and storyteller, framing the archaeological content while communicating the site’s evolution across centuries.

Visitor Experience and Movement

Movement through the structure is organized according to the functional hierarchy of the original sacral spaces. Visitors traverse pathways that follow the basilica’s ancient axes, encountering curated viewpoints, interpretive displays, and transitions between light and shadow created by the layered roofing system.

This choreography is designed to:

• Enhance historical understanding
• Encourage contemplative engagement
• Reveal spatial relationships that once defined the basilica and thermal spa

The resulting experience is immersive yet educational, blending architectural discovery with cultural reflection.

Impact and Cultural Contribution

The project has profound short-term and long-term impacts:

• Short-term: Draws greater attention to the archaeological site, increasing public engagement and tourism.
• Long-term: Provides a model for contemporary protective architecture that respects historical authenticity while introducing innovative solutions.

Most importantly, the intervention legitimizes the introduction of new architecture within archaeological environments—so long as it contributes to the quality, interpretation, and preservation of the historic site.

Marta Adamovic’s design for a protective structure above the Transept Basil and ancient thermal spa represents a milestone in architectural heritage conservation. Through its graceful fusion of modern engineering and historical reverence, the project illustrates how contemporary architecture can protect endangered sites while illuminating their cultural significance.

Rather than freezing the past, the proposal encourages dialogue between eras—creating an architectural presence that safeguards memory, enriches identity, and enhances the way future generations encounter ancient spaces.