Perperikon – Sacred Ancient Thracian City
The medieval archaeological complex Perperikon is located in the Eastern Rhodope Mountains, 20 km northeast of the town of Kardzhali. It is one of the oldest and largest megalithic monuments, carved into the rocks. It is believed to have been an ancient Thracian sanctuary of Dionysus, which gained wide renown in antiquity. The total area of the archaeological complex is about 12 square kilometers.
The grand sanctuary of Perperikon rises on a rocky peak at an altitude of 470 meters. At its foot lies the village of Gorna Krepost. Nearby flows the Perperek River, which has carved out a fertile valley 10 km long and 3–4 km wide, creating ideal living conditions since ancient times. Excavations show that there was a large rock city here, which flourished during the Roman era.
Recent archaeological studies clearly indicate that the earliest traces of life date back to the late Neolithic period (5,000 BC). The rock sanctuary experienced a peak in development during the Late Bronze Age (18th–12th century BC).
Architecturally, Perperikon consists of four main parts: the Acropolis on the highest part of the hill, a massive fortress, a palace-sanctuary, and the northern and southern suburbs with streets carved into the rocks.
Today, the ancient glory of Perperikon lives on. The ancient city is unique in its architectural, natural, historical, and multi-religious significance — truly one of the wonders of the world. Many of the archaeological findings from this sacred city can be seen in the Historical Museum in Kardzhali.
