Archaeological excavations have resumed at Primorsky Boulevard in Odesa, near the Duke monument. Students from the South Ukrainian National Pedagogical University and researchers from the Institute of Archaeology are participating in the work.

According to a Ukrinform correspondent, the rector of the university, Andriy Krasnozhon, stated that radar studies conducted in 2021 revealed an anomaly beneath the surface that was unrelated to modern infrastructure. Follow-up studies in the spring of 2025 confirmed these findings.

“We now know exactly what lies beneath the Duke. There are cultural layers dating back 2500 years. This is the remains of the ancient Greek colony of Histria, founded in the 6th century B.C. and lasting for around 300-400 years,” Krasnozhon explained.

During the excavation, the team uncovered several utility pits and numerous distinctive fragments of plaster, indicating the presence of residential structures during the time of the ancient Greeks.

“We determined that the ancient Greeks lived near the Vorontsov Palace. In the northern part of Primorsky Boulevard, we didn’t find any Greek layers, but suddenly they appear strongly near the Duke monument. Most likely, there was a ravine that served as a natural barrier for the Greek settlement occupying the southern part of the boulevard,” he added.

The archaeologists also discovered a unique fragment of red-glazed pottery from Roman times. Krasnozhon emphasized that such a find had not been recorded during decades of research at the site.

“It was previously believed that there was only a Greek settlement in antiquity. Now we are documenting the first signs of possible human presence during the Roman Empire,” the historian noted.

The researchers were also surprised to find a large amount of material from the 14th century, including a distinct fragment of a bowl with geometric patterns.

“This indicates that there was a trading post here, as imported goods could only come by sea. It’s likely this was the Italian trading post of Ginistra. This discovery also suggests we should reconsider how long Odesa has existed,” Krasnozhon stated.

The excavation also revealed remnants of a civilian structure built from heavy stone blocks.

“We know that the stone fortress of Khadjibey stood somewhere here. I can say with high probability that these blocks were moved during the dismantling of the fortress. The stones weigh between 40-60 kg and have hewn edges. One resembles an upside-down column capital. This material is typical for fortifications. We found red-glazed pottery in this context too. There are ongoing debates about where the fortress was located and who built it. The context of these moved stones and the 14th-century pottery fragment provides a certain hint,” Krasnozhon said.

The team plans to start new excavation work on Primorsky Boulevard within the week.