A Provenance Study of Ceramic Artifacts from the Area of Makariopolsko Village, NE Bulgaria

The Roman site at Makariopolsko village in Northeastern Bulgaria has been identified as a ceramic production center, featuring single- and double-chamber kilns, abundant ceramic material, and a nearby water source. Geological assessments also reveal local clay deposits. Previous archaeological studies have noted similar Roman production sites in the region, primarily focusing on the study of the kilns and the macroscopic description and classification of the ceramics. However, there has been a lack of research into the pottery’s composition and the sourcing of raw materials, which is essential for understanding the area’s cultural and economic context. This study aims to determine the raw material and firing temperature of the ceramic from the site at Makariopolsko village. Clay samples (both raw and fired at 1100 °C) and ceramic were subjected to chemical, statistical, phase X-ray structural, and thermal analyses. The findings indicate the use of calcareous illite–kaolinitic clay, sourced locally, with an added sandy component. The ceramics were fired at temperatures of 570–760 °C and 920–945 °C. These results, which support the site’s identification as a pottery production center, highlight advanced pottery skills and the dual functional capabilities of the kilns. Additionally, they pave the way for further research into regional production center relationships.