Natural phenomenon
Historic sight
Mystical and magical
Thracian sanctuary
Begliktash observatory – Primorsko
The Thracian sanctuary Beglik Tash is located in the highest part of Cape Beglik Tash (128 m above sea level) near Primorsko. It covers an area of 6 decares. The territory on which it is located is forest, it was part of the hunting residence of the former communist head of state Todor Zhivkov (ruled 1954-1989). It is for this reason that one of the greatest discoveries about the Thracian history of our Southern Black Sea coast and Strandzha remained unknown to science until 2003.
The entrance to the sanctuary is from the southwest. A rocky path leads to a stone “marriage bed”. Two sacrificial stones surround the bed. There are carved deep baths connected with gutters for pouring ritual liquids: wine, milk, olive oil, rainwater. Next is a stone throne, from which cut deep grooves and intersecting lines, gathering in a large quadrangular “sharapana”.
The eastern part of the circle is occupied by three “menhirs” (large rounded stones). At the top of the highest of them is carved a “divine step” with a length of 0.6 m and a width of 0.34 m. The same “divine step” can be found at the opposite southern point, at the foot of the rock terrace. Divine footsteps mark the innermost sacred space, designated only for the initiates to participate in the mysteries.
So far, the central site of the sanctuary is the best studied. It is slightly raised above the surrounding terrain and in it are located in a circle with a diameter of 56 m rock elements that were used to perform rituals. They have retained their natural character, but have been moved and reshaped by human hands with characteristic sacred symbols and signs.
Behind them is an astronomical clock made of 16 flat round stones and a huge dolmen, representing the “sacred cave” where the mother goddess gives birth to her son, the Sun God, and the “labyrinth” – the path of trial.
Archaeological excavations have found pottery, stone tools and weapons, flints, coins, etc., which show that it was created in the middle of the second millennium BC and was destroyed in the early fourth century AD. The lack of later construction on it has preserved the unique sacred elements in their original form.
Why visit Begliktash?
First of all it’s amazing natural phenomenon. Very close to the seaside so you can make your vacation and visit this historical object simultaneously. The beauty of Bulgaria is boundless and all-encompassing!
More to see nearby
St. Paraskeva Church „The temple under the waves“
The remains of the medieval church
"St. Paraskeva" are located on the shores of the bay of the same name, north of Primorsko.
When visiting Begliktash, St. Paraskeva Church is a mandatory stop as well.
Consult your guide because you can’t visit the church on foot.
Ropotamo Nature Reserve
This nature reserve is located 10km south of Sozopol, along the main road to Primorsko. Visitors can hike or picnic, but most come for a 30- to 40-minute slow boat ride along the Ropotamo River.
Combine your Begliktash visit with a few more sights
Turn it into a memorable trip!
SOZOPOL
RAVADINOVO CASTLE
PRIMORSKO
Location
Contact us
Why us?
Private Groups & Tailor-made Tours
Attention to detail
Perfect planning and organization
We put in an extra effort to help you feel the spirit of Bulgaria!
Enjoy more of Bulgaria's sights
CONFITO offers you a tailor-made trip to all the sights you are interested in!
We guarantee you a memorable stay in Bulgaria!
+359886-701-858
info@confi.to