One of Bulgaria’s most interesting historical monuments is the Belogradchik Fortress. It’s located on the slopes of the Balkan Mountains, and the area’s phenomenal rock formations serve not only as natural protection but also as an integral part of the fortification itself.
It’s believed that these ancient rock formations were formed over a period of more than 200 million years, and they’ve now become unique obelisks, reddish sandstone castles, and oversized stone figures that soar high into the sky.
A fortress has existed here since Roman times, and it was originally built so that the highest part, known as the Citadel, used these gigantic rock formations for natural protection. To complete the fortress, thick fortified walls were added on a couple of sides, blending in with the rocks themselves. The walls are over 6.6 feet thick and rise 39 feet in height. The rocks, of course, extend much higher.
The ancient Roman fortress was later expanded by the Byzantines, Bulgarians, and Turks, and several towers, gates, and walls were added. Its present appearance dates back to the 19th century, when it was added to by the Turks. Now it’s the area’s most popular tourist attraction.
As I gazed at this massive fortification, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the cleverness of its location. It would be very difficult for any enemy to scale the walls, cross the courtyards, pass the defensive bunkers, and then ascend, via a precarious climb up a series of steep, rock stairs, and wooden ladders, through the various levels of the fortification, all the way to the summit. But once I saw this layout, I knew that I wanted to be one of the tourists who actually did reach the top!
Ascending the Fortress on Foot
I signed up to participate in a hike, one of the optional excursions offered on my AmaWaterways luxury river cruise along the Danube, and that was certainly my intention.I entered the fortress through the large stone gate, passing the massive outer walls, and made my way across the three courtyards, the tunnels, and the inner walls and arrived at the base of the rocks.
Here, I was faced with a series of steep rock stairs leading to a plateau. At this point, part way up the wall of rocks, I had a great view of the surrounding area. Many of the hiking tourists decided that this was far enough to climb. But as some started their descent, others pushed on.
I was determined to climb to the summit. I eventually made it, ascending on a series of steep wooden ladders where I was rewarded with an even more spectacular view of the area, including the village nestled down below and the vast body of red rocks that stretched far into the distance. I also witnessed an up close and personal view of those massive rock structures that formed part of the fortification itself!
Several of these impressive rock formations have been given names: Adam and Eve, Monks, the Shepherd Boy, the Madonna, the Horseman, the Camel, the Lion, the Bear, and the Schoolgirl. Many have legends associated with them.
As I stood at the summit, I noticed that there weren’t many barriers or fences, so caution was necessary. I would be nervous if I had young children up here, but some had certainly made the climb. I also saw several adults taking selfies while standing very close to the edge!
More Attractions
Many caves have been formed in the area’s rocks. The most famous of these is the nearby Magura Cave, with its prehistoric cave paintings. Furthermore, while you’re in the area, I’d also recommend a visit to the nearby Baba Vida Fortress, a well-preserved medieval fortress located in Vidin.Indeed, this northwestern area of Bulgaria proved to be a fascinating destination. The highlight for me was my successful hike to the summit of the Belogradchik Fortress.
