The unique monument of ancient Thracian culture

Eagle Rocks sanctuary is located in the Eastern Rhodopes, about 3 km. south of Ardino and 30 km. southwest of Kardjali. This monument of the ancient Thracian culture is unique for Bulgaria and is one of the emblematic places, revealing part of the life of the rock people.

Due to the large slope of the area, the height of the cliff is not the same in different places. Is highest on the west side, where it reaches 30 meters. From north and south have a height about 25 meters and the east – 10-12 meters. In the rock massif, man-made, are carved about 100 trapezoidal niches – cemeteries. Most of the holes are located in the west – 55 in number. On the south side they are 35 from the north – 5 and the east is also 5-6, which are almost destroyed. How they should arrange a schedule and there is no pattern. Their Creator has used any convenient location close to a single or group of holes in the soft volcanic rock. The shape of all the same – trapezoidal, but the size of each niche is quite different. Their depth is between 8 and 12 cm According to some authors, these carved Odrisses cemeteries belong to and are created in the first millennium BC. They had religious function. Found around Eagle rock clay pieces are charred inside, which supports the thesis that religious place and demonstrates that in these vessels Thracians poured fuel, lighted it, and placed them in niches carved into the rock. This ritual did on particularly solemn occasions, such as before and after completion of the war. A further assumption is that these recesses were rock tombs- urns, where the Thracians put the ashes of the dead.

There are several theories and legends for the creation of this mysterious rock complex. The niches were funeral urns where our ancestors put the remains of the dead. But they were quite high for the theory to be true. The idea is that certain sacred objects are placed in them, but only on certain days. According to another theory, the rock massif is a portal between the dead and the living – the shape of the niches resembles a bat. This animal is related to the transfer of souls to the beyond.

According to locals, there is a serpent in the bowels of the rock necropolis, which holds untold treasure. That is why the Thracian sanctuary remains inaccessible to treasure hunters and anyone who wants to get rich quick.

Despite the numerous suggestions regarding their use and date of origin, their secret message remains unrevealed.

Why visit Eagle Rocks?

Especially for nature lovers this is one very pleasant place. Outstanding views, wonderful pictures, relaxing atmosphere and breathtaking nature.

More to see nearby

Combine your Eagle Rocks visit with a few more sights
Turn it into a memorable trip!

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