Thracian Cult Complex “Orlovi skali” — Attraction in Ardino

Here's why Orlovi Skali deserves a place on your Bulgarian bucket list:

Uniqueness: This isn't your average museum – it's a living, breathing monument to a vanished civilization. The sheer number and intricate details of the niches are awe-inspiring, making you wonder about the beliefs and practices that took place here. Mystery and Intrigue: Every niche tells a story, but one we'll never fully decipher. The lack of archaeological excavations adds to the mystique, allowing your imagination to run wild. Nature's Symphony: It's a place to soak in nature's serenity and connect with something ancient. Easy Access: Located just outside Arduino, Orlovi Skali is easy to reach. A short trail leads you to the rock face, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Tips for fellow time travelers: Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Bring water and snacks, especially if you're planning to stay a while. Let your imagination soar! This is a place to lose yourself in the mysteries...

The rock is dotted with niches, which at present must be about 96 in number. They are mainly south of the rock, but there are also western ones. The turnoff for the place is at the entrance of the town of Ardino from the side of the town of Kardjali. The road to the place is not long, but it is quite narrow and winding. After the entrance there are two paths. The one that is straight leads to the rock in about 5-8 minutes. The second path is about fifteen meters to the left after the entrance. Look for a sign on a tree. They call it "The path with verses". This trail is more circuitous, a little longer and a little steeper. It takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the rock. It takes so much time because there are verses written on tables in about 10-20 meters of the thickness and because of the stops to read the time is extended, but that's how one rests. GPS...

One of the best examples of this Thracian phenomenon. The "trapezoid alcoves" are found all over the Rhodopes dug high in difficult to reach rocks. Despite numerous hypotheses and theories, there is no definite answer as to why or how the Thracian people made them. The Orlovi skali (Eagles' Rocks) site carries the larges number of recesses (97 left of the previously 100). You get there from the town of Ardino (turn right after the police station and follow the signs), or turn right about 2 km after you leave town. Either way, a newly asphalted road will take you to a small parking at the start of a trail. It takes about 15 min of moderate intensity walk...