LATINITAS OR EUROPA-LATINITAS OR EUROPA-FROM PAST TO PRESENT FROM PAST TO PRESENT FROM PRESENT TO PASTFROM PRESENT TO PAST

School Project 2004/2005School Project 2004/2005

SOCRATES /COMENIUS 1SOCRATES /COMENIUS 1

SOU “ BRATIA KANAZIREVI “-RAZLOG, SOU “ BRATIA KANAZIREVI “-RAZLOG, BULGARIABULGARIA

The participation of Bulgaria is The participation of Bulgaria is based on the fact based on the fact that in our country there are Roman traces and we that in our country there are Roman traces and we intend to examine them and to present in the project intend to examine them and to present in the project activities. The theme of the project is interesting and activities. The theme of the project is interesting and challenging for Bulgarian institution. Despite the fact challenging for Bulgarian institution. Despite the fact that Bulgarian language is a Slavonic Language there that Bulgarian language is a Slavonic Language there is some Latin influence in our language. The studies is some Latin influence in our language. The studies will be led in the following ways:will be led in the following ways:

1.Tracing the Latin heritage mainly in our Bulgarian 1.Tracing the Latin heritage mainly in our Bulgarian language.language.

2.Finding out the spheres in the Bulgarian culture 2.Finding out the spheres in the Bulgarian culture where the Latin culture can be seen(Language, where the Latin culture can be seen(Language, History, Architecture, Archeaology , History, Fine History, Architecture, Archeaology , History, Fine Arts,Education,Science).Arts,Education,Science).

3. Analysis of the most characteristic examples of 3. Analysis of the most characteristic examples of Latin in our culture.Latin in our culture.

4. Making a comparison of this research with the 4. Making a comparison of this research with the results achieved by the colleagues from other schools.results achieved by the colleagues from other schools.

LATIN HERITAGE IN BULGARIALATIN HERITAGE IN BULGARIA INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION When we talk about Latin heritage in Bulgaria we When we talk about Latin heritage in Bulgaria we

should keep in mind that there are a lot of traces should keep in mind that there are a lot of traces in Bulgaria about it. We should go back in in Bulgaria about it. We should go back in antiquity in the period of thriving of the Roman antiquity in the period of thriving of the Roman Empire ( i.e. the period of emperor August (30 BC Empire ( i.e. the period of emperor August (30 BC -14 AD). At the beginning the Roman empire built -14 AD). At the beginning the Roman empire built its cultural foundations on Greek culture and after its cultural foundations on Greek culture and after that it built its own unique culture. Part of these that it built its own unique culture. Part of these rich and unique cultural heritage are a lot of rich and unique cultural heritage are a lot of sculptures and art works , roads, amphitheatres.sculptures and art works , roads, amphitheatres.

There is a unique Roman amphitheatre in There is a unique Roman amphitheatre in Bulgarian city- Plovdiv. The Roman amphitheatre Bulgarian city- Plovdiv. The Roman amphitheatre was uncovered in the end of the 20th Century.was uncovered in the end of the 20th Century.

The special kind of Roman water- mains , called The special kind of Roman water- mains , called aqueducts still could be seen in some Bulgarian aqueducts still could be seen in some Bulgarian cities. There are such kind of water-mains in cities. There are such kind of water-mains in Italy , France and other countries as well.Italy , France and other countries as well.

In Thrace, that is now in Bulgaria , there In Thrace, that is now in Bulgaria , there are a lot of Roman baths. They were built are a lot of Roman baths. They were built in places with mineral water springs. And in places with mineral water springs. And even today well-preserved fortified walls even today well-preserved fortified walls could be seen in some Bulgarian cities- could be seen in some Bulgarian cities- Varna, Plovdiv , Nesebar,Hisarya.Varna, Plovdiv , Nesebar,Hisarya.

Later Byzantium as a successor of Roman Later Byzantium as a successor of Roman Empire continued to carry out its culture in Empire continued to carry out its culture in Europe and mainly on the Balkan Europe and mainly on the Balkan Peninsula. After the foundation of the Latin Peninsula. After the foundation of the Latin Empire (11 AD) deep contacts with Empire (11 AD) deep contacts with Bulgaria were established. Later after the Bulgaria were established. Later after the crash of the Latin Empire , Byzantium was crash of the Latin Empire , Byzantium was established. Later Byzantium was established. Later Byzantium was subjugated by Ottoman Turkish Empire subjugated by Ottoman Turkish Empire and there was a decline in culture. A lot of and there was a decline in culture. A lot of monasteries were built during that period.monasteries were built during that period.

LATIN HERITAGE IN BULGARIA, TRACED IN LATIN HERITAGE IN BULGARIA, TRACED IN ARCHITECTURE AND ARCHEAOLOGYARCHITECTURE AND ARCHEAOLOGY

( city of PLOVDIV ) ( city of PLOVDIV ) Ruins from antiquity, Middle Ages, Renaissance Ruins from antiquity, Middle Ages, Renaissance

and Modern culture live together, mingled with and Modern culture live together, mingled with the beauty of this eternal city. Unique cultural the beauty of this eternal city. Unique cultural monuments of the Roman culture are still monuments of the Roman culture are still preserved in the city of Plovdiv: the Roman preserved in the city of Plovdiv: the Roman stadium, the Roman amphitheatre, beautiful stadium, the Roman amphitheatre, beautiful coloured mosaics, the antique forum and coloured mosaics, the antique forum and fortified walls, the Roman aqueducts, ruins from fortified walls, the Roman aqueducts, ruins from Thracian settlements. There is a part of the city Thracian settlements. There is a part of the city called Trihill where the most colorful called Trihill where the most colorful monuments of Bulgarian Renaissance monuments of Bulgarian Renaissance architecture could be seen.architecture could be seen.

The city has a gold medal from UNESCO for The city has a gold medal from UNESCO for restoration and conservation of the cultural restoration and conservation of the cultural monuments.monuments.

In the archaeological place called In the archaeological place called “Nebet Hill” there are ruins from the “Nebet Hill” there are ruins from the Roman fortresses which protected Roman fortresses which protected the town from the Turkish.the town from the Turkish.

       

 

The fortified WallsThe fortified Walls The ruins from two fortified walls and their The ruins from two fortified walls and their

doors could be seen among the monuments doors could be seen among the monuments from the Roman period. If one takes a walk from the Roman period. If one takes a walk around The Trihill ,he will see the antique around The Trihill ,he will see the antique fortifications which are from Roman and fortifications which are from Roman and Byzantine time. It is undoubted that among the Byzantine time. It is undoubted that among the fortified doors the most colorful and the most fortified doors the most colorful and the most preserved is the door called “Hysar Gate” which preserved is the door called “Hysar Gate” which was built during the rule of the emperors Trajan was built during the rule of the emperors Trajan and Marcus Aurelius. The ruins from the second and Marcus Aurelius. The ruins from the second fortified wall revealed that it had solid turrets fortified wall revealed that it had solid turrets and loop- holes. It was 8 meters high and 2,3 and loop- holes. It was 8 meters high and 2,3 meters wide. It was built from huge stone meters wide. It was built from huge stone blocks, connected horizontally with metal solid blocks, connected horizontally with metal solid fits. A secret entrance to the fortress was fits. A secret entrance to the fortress was uncovered, which connected acropolis with the uncovered, which connected acropolis with the river Maritza through tunnel and stairs. The river Maritza through tunnel and stairs. The staircase was dug into the rocks of “Nebet Hill”. staircase was dug into the rocks of “Nebet Hill”.

The Antique ForumThe Antique Forum

The place is 0,6 hectares and it was The place is 0,6 hectares and it was uncovered when the foundations of the uncovered when the foundations of the hotel “Trimoncium “ were put. The streets hotel “Trimoncium “ were put. The streets in this region of Plovdiv are covered with in this region of Plovdiv are covered with syenite plates. It’s interesting fact that syenite plates. It’s interesting fact that the buildings were built on the curb the buildings were built on the curb stones. The forum parts which are stones. The forum parts which are opened for tourists, clearly reveal the opened for tourists, clearly reveal the different levels in the building of the different levels in the building of the Thracian agora with well-preserved ruins Thracian agora with well-preserved ruins of Roman marble. of Roman marble.

The Roman StadiumThe Roman Stadium The stadium is in a form of horseshoe, The stadium is in a form of horseshoe,

which is 180 meters in length and there which is 180 meters in length and there are 30000 seats for spectators. It’s are 30000 seats for spectators. It’s proved that this stadium dated back from proved that this stadium dated back from the Roman Emperor Septimus Severus the Roman Emperor Septimus Severus (193-211year). The most splendid sports (193-211year). The most splendid sports competitions were so called Pytiani and competitions were so called Pytiani and Alexandrian games which were organized Alexandrian games which were organized as a model of Greek Olympic Games. The as a model of Greek Olympic Games. The main sports were athletics, wrestling, main sports were athletics, wrestling, jumping, rifle practice, discus-throwing, jumping, rifle practice, discus-throwing, javelin throw. javelin throw.

It’s the most impressive part from Roman time. It’s the most impressive part from Roman time. It took ten years for excavations and cleaning It took ten years for excavations and cleaning the place and 15 meters soil were removed. the place and 15 meters soil were removed. The spectators seats have amphitheatrical form The spectators seats have amphitheatrical form and they are divided into 2 rings of 14 rows and they are divided into 2 rings of 14 rows each. The theatre had a capacity of 7000 each. The theatre had a capacity of 7000 spectators. The names of the different spectators. The names of the different residential districts were engraved into the residential districts were engraved into the benches of each sector. The stage on two levels benches of each sector. The stage on two levels reveals the architectural and decorative reveals the architectural and decorative richness of the theatre. The high quality of the richness of the theatre. The high quality of the used materials and art works reveal used materials and art works reveal undoubtedly the great social meaning which undoubtedly the great social meaning which the theatre had during that time.the theatre had during that time.

In Plovdiv there have been uncovered a In Plovdiv there have been uncovered a lot of lot of Roman MosaicsRoman Mosaics. They are very . They are very beautiful and valuable. Such kind of beautiful and valuable. Such kind of Roman mosaics one could see in the Roman mosaics one could see in the popular basilica of another Bulgarian city- popular basilica of another Bulgarian city- Sandanski. From the springs, in the skirts Sandanski. From the springs, in the skirts of the Rhodopes Montain the water was of the Rhodopes Montain the water was transported through clay pipes in a huge transported through clay pipes in a huge water basin in Markovo village. There are water basin in Markovo village. There are ruins from Roman aqueduct. The ruins from Roman aqueduct. The Romans kneew the principles of Romans kneew the principles of interconnected vessels. In 1983, when interconnected vessels. In 1983, when the parts of the aqueduct were uncovered the parts of the aqueduct were uncovered in the center of the town, the water inside in the center of the town, the water inside was good for drinking.was good for drinking.

PERPERIKONPERPERIKON General Info and Road MapGeneral Info and Road Map

Perperikon (or Hyperperakion or Perperakion) is in the Perperikon (or Hyperperakion or Perperakion) is in the Eastern Rhodope range, some 10 miles from the town Eastern Rhodope range, some 10 miles from the town of Kurdzhali. The roads from Sofia, via Asenovgrad or of Kurdzhali. The roads from Sofia, via Asenovgrad or Haskovo, are fairly good and well maintained. Haskovo, are fairly good and well maintained. Perperikon is perched on a rocky peak at 1,400 ft above Perperikon is perched on a rocky peak at 1,400 ft above sea level guarded at its foot by the village of Gorna sea level guarded at its foot by the village of Gorna Krepost [high castle]. The gold-bearing river Krepost [high castle]. The gold-bearing river Perpereshka flows nearby forming a valley some 7 Perpereshka flows nearby forming a valley some 7 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. This fertile sheltered miles long and 2.5 miles wide. This fertile sheltered place had attracted settlers in very ancient times, and place had attracted settlers in very ancient times, and today, dozens of sites clustered around the natural hub today, dozens of sites clustered around the natural hub of Perperikon reveal layer upon layer of archaeological of Perperikon reveal layer upon layer of archaeological remains. Just a little further downstream, the remains. Just a little further downstream, the Perpereshka flows into the artificial lake of Stouden Perpereshka flows into the artificial lake of Stouden Kladenets on the river Arda. Where the two bodies of Kladenets on the river Arda. Where the two bodies of water meet, is the village of Kaloyantsi, a scenic place water meet, is the village of Kaloyantsi, a scenic place with some tourist facilities.with some tourist facilities.

Bulgaria and Byzantium at War for Bulgaria and Byzantium at War for PerperikonPerperikon

The riches hidden in the Eastern Rhodope had The riches hidden in the Eastern Rhodope had attracted the Bulgars since the late 7th century, attracted the Bulgars since the late 7th century, when they first settled on the plain between the when they first settled on the plain between the Danube and the Balkan Mountains to form the Danube and the Balkan Mountains to form the kernel of what was to become the first kernel of what was to become the first Bulgarian empire. Their expansionist ambitions Bulgarian empire. Their expansionist ambitions were spurred on by the local population which, were spurred on by the local population which, since the late 6th century, had been strongly since the late 6th century, had been strongly permeated by Slavic elements. Indeed, permeated by Slavic elements. Indeed, contemporary Byzantine chroniclers claimed contemporary Byzantine chroniclers claimed that the Bulgars' raids on the Rhodope were that the Bulgars' raids on the Rhodope were successful because the local tribes them gave successful because the local tribes them gave them their support.them their support.

The Eastern Rhodope were finally conquered by the The Eastern Rhodope were finally conquered by the second Bulgarian empire soon after the brothers Asen second Bulgarian empire soon after the brothers Asen and Peter, the first Bulgarian rulers of the House of and Peter, the first Bulgarian rulers of the House of Asen (1185-1280), launched a revolt to throw off Asen (1185-1280), launched a revolt to throw off Byzantine sovereignty. During the war between Byzantine sovereignty. During the war between Kaloyan, their brother and successor, and the knights of Kaloyan, their brother and successor, and the knights of the Fourth Crusade (1205-1207), the Eastern Rhodope the Fourth Crusade (1205-1207), the Eastern Rhodope became the southernmost Bulgarian stronghold from became the southernmost Bulgarian stronghold from which the Bulgars raided the Aegean lowlands. The which the Bulgars raided the Aegean lowlands. The second Bulgarian empire reached its height during the second Bulgarian empire reached its height during the reign of Tsar Ivan Asen II (1218-41). His successors, reign of Tsar Ivan Asen II (1218-41). His successors, however, could not match his ability. In 1246, his son however, could not match his ability. In 1246, his son Koloman, still a child, died. His other son, Michael Asen, Koloman, still a child, died. His other son, Michael Asen, succeeded his brother under the de facto regency of his succeeded his brother under the de facto regency of his mother Irina. She was the daughter of the Byzantine mother Irina. She was the daughter of the Byzantine emperor and willingly gave back the Bulgarian southern emperor and willingly gave back the Bulgarian southern conquests, including the Eastern Rhodope.conquests, including the Eastern Rhodope.

In 1254, Michael Asen, who had come of age, decided to reclaim In 1254, Michael Asen, who had come of age, decided to reclaim his father's possessions and marched south at the head of a large his father's possessions and marched south at the head of a large army. In his history of the Byzantine Empire, the contemporary army. In his history of the Byzantine Empire, the contemporary scholar and statesman George Acropolites relates that in a very scholar and statesman George Acropolites relates that in a very short time the Bulgars subjected to their rule a vast territory with short time the Bulgars subjected to their rule a vast territory with many cities along the Maritsa River. They then marched on the many cities along the Maritsa River. They then marched on the Eastern Rhodope and captured all the fortresses there, except for Eastern Rhodope and captured all the fortresses there, except for Mneakos, the administrative centre of the region, which withstood Mneakos, the administrative centre of the region, which withstood the siege even though its fortifications were almost destroyed.the siege even though its fortifications were almost destroyed.

The Bulgars made their last attempt to conquer the Eastern The Bulgars made their last attempt to conquer the Eastern Rhodope in 1343, taking advantage of the unrest over the Rhodope in 1343, taking advantage of the unrest over the succession to the Byzantine throne. By negotiations alone, Tsar succession to the Byzantine throne. By negotiations alone, Tsar Ivan Alexander acquired the strategically important region of Ivan Alexander acquired the strategically important region of Plovdiv. As one of the pretenders, who eventually did become Plovdiv. As one of the pretenders, who eventually did become Emperor John VI Cantacuzenus, wrote in his memoirs, Ivan Emperor John VI Cantacuzenus, wrote in his memoirs, Ivan Alexander then desired to take hold of the Eastern Rhodope, Alexander then desired to take hold of the Eastern Rhodope, captured Perperikon and installed his archon there. Some decades captured Perperikon and installed his archon there. Some decades ago, a fragment of a letter was found at Perperikon sealed with ago, a fragment of a letter was found at Perperikon sealed with Ivan Alexander's only surviving gold signet. Soon after, however, Ivan Alexander's only surviving gold signet. Soon after, however, Byzantium sent a military expedition to recapture Perperikon. The Byzantium sent a military expedition to recapture Perperikon. The Bulgarian garrison was outnumbered and had to surrender the Bulgarian garrison was outnumbered and had to surrender the fortress. Just a few years later the Eastern Rhodope, and the fortress. Just a few years later the Eastern Rhodope, and the second Bulgarian empire, fell to the Ottoman Turks, who were second Bulgarian empire, fell to the Ottoman Turks, who were overrunning the Balkans from the south. Perperikon and the other overrunning the Balkans from the south. Perperikon and the other fortresses were raised to the ground and sank into final oblivion.fortresses were raised to the ground and sank into final oblivion.

Latest research, however, suggests that Latest research, however, suggests that the Christian settlements at the foot of the Christian settlements at the foot of Perperikon survived. Indeed, throughout Perperikon survived. Indeed, throughout the period of Turkish rule (15th-19th the period of Turkish rule (15th-19th century), the Rhodope Mountains were a century), the Rhodope Mountains were a bastion of Slavic culture. The region's bastion of Slavic culture. The region's ethnic makeup remained largely ethnic makeup remained largely unchanged until the massive Turkish unchanged until the massive Turkish colonisation and displacement of the colonisation and displacement of the indigenous population in the late 18th indigenous population in the late 18th and early 19th century.and early 19th century.

The Bessians Read the Bible in the Thracian LanguageThe Bessians Read the Bible in the Thracian Language On 24 May 303, Roman Emperor Diocletian published one of his On 24 May 303, Roman Emperor Diocletian published one of his

four edicts which secured him a place in history as a most ruthless four edicts which secured him a place in history as a most ruthless persecutor of Christianity. Only 10 years later, Constantine, one of persecutor of Christianity. Only 10 years later, Constantine, one of the pretenders for the throne in Rome, came to power with the the pretenders for the throne in Rome, came to power with the help of the Christians in the army. Christianity was to become the help of the Christians in the army. Christianity was to become the religion of the Empire.religion of the Empire.

Nothing changed, however, in the Rhodope. The Bessians, who had Nothing changed, however, in the Rhodope. The Bessians, who had "never yet bec[o]me obedient to any man," preserved the cult of "never yet bec[o]me obedient to any man," preserved the cult of Dionysus and his temple in the Holy Mount. It took almost another Dionysus and his temple in the Holy Mount. It took almost another century before the Thracians were converted to Christianity, and century before the Thracians were converted to Christianity, and the causes were as much perhaps of an external as they were of the causes were as much perhaps of an external as they were of an internal nature. During the 4th century the Roman Empire fell an internal nature. During the 4th century the Roman Empire fell prey to a massive barbaric onslaught from the North. A Germanic prey to a massive barbaric onslaught from the North. A Germanic tribe, the Visigoths, had settled in Dacia (now in Romania) when tribe, the Visigoths, had settled in Dacia (now in Romania) when they were attacked by the Huns in 376 and driven southward they were attacked by the Huns in 376 and driven southward across the river Danube into the Roman Empire. The exactions of across the river Danube into the Roman Empire. The exactions of Roman officials soon drove them to revolt and plunder the Balkan Roman officials soon drove them to revolt and plunder the Balkan provinces. On 9 August 378, they utterly defeated the army of the provinces. On 9 August 378, they utterly defeated the army of the Roman emperor Valens on the plains outside Adrianople (now Roman emperor Valens on the plains outside Adrianople (now Edirne in Turkey), killing the emperor himself.Edirne in Turkey), killing the emperor himself.

Ironically, the devastation, which did not spare the eastern Ironically, the devastation, which did not spare the eastern Rhodope, paved the Christian missionaries' way to the souls of the Rhodope, paved the Christian missionaries' way to the souls of the pagan tribes. According to Paulinus of Nola, one of the most pagan tribes. According to Paulinus of Nola, one of the most important Christian authors of his time, Nicetas, Bishop of important Christian authors of his time, Nicetas, Bishop of Remesiana (now Bela Palanka in eastern Serbia) initiated the Remesiana (now Bela Palanka in eastern Serbia) initiated the Christianisation of the Rhodope, which continued during the entire Christianisation of the Rhodope, which continued during the entire 5th century. Thus enthused Paulinus: [...] have not indeed the 5th century. Thus enthused Paulinus: [...] have not indeed the Bessians - for all that their land and soul be callous, and their skin Bessians - for all that their land and soul be callous, and their skin be thicker than the snow upon their land - have they not indeed, be thicker than the snow upon their land - have they not indeed, under your guidance, become meek as lambs and flocked into the under your guidance, become meek as lambs and flocked into the fold of peace! They now rejoice, the Bessians, with a bounty richer fold of peace! They now rejoice, the Bessians, with a bounty richer than toil can ever afford - for has not the gold for which, with their than toil can ever afford - for has not the gold for which, with their hands, they dig the earth now descended upon their souls from hands, they dig the earth now descended upon their souls from Heaven! [...] Those mountains, once impenetrable and blood-Heaven! [...] Those mountains, once impenetrable and blood-ridden, now shelter monks who have forsaken the weapons of war ridden, now shelter monks who have forsaken the weapons of war to become the nurslings of peace. To facilitate the Thracians' to become the nurslings of peace. To facilitate the Thracians' conversion to Christianity, a compromise was even allowed, which conversion to Christianity, a compromise was even allowed, which earlier had only been made for the Goths. Somewhere in the earlier had only been made for the Goths. Somewhere in the depths of the holy mountain, the Scriptures were translated into depths of the holy mountain, the Scriptures were translated into the Bessian language, contrary to the doctrine which recognised the Bessian language, contrary to the doctrine which recognised only Greek, Latin and Hebrew as sacred languages. Legend has it only Greek, Latin and Hebrew as sacred languages. Legend has it that the Biblia Bessica was translated from the original in a Bessian that the Biblia Bessica was translated from the original in a Bessian monastery in the Rhodope.monastery in the Rhodope.

Today, all traces of that ancient place of Today, all traces of that ancient place of Christian worship have been lost. However, Christian worship have been lost. However, there is every reason to believe that it was in there is every reason to believe that it was in the holy city of Perperikon. Archaeological the holy city of Perperikon. Archaeological research throughout the Rhodope has research throughout the Rhodope has invariably revealed that the Christians did not invariably revealed that the Christians did not destroy the Thracian shrines but converted destroy the Thracian shrines but converted them into churches, much as they themselves them into churches, much as they themselves had been converted to Christianity from their had been converted to Christianity from their pagan beliefs. If the famous Temple of Dionysus pagan beliefs. If the famous Temple of Dionysus was at Perperikon, as is quite likely, then the was at Perperikon, as is quite likely, then the centre of early Christian learning in the centre of early Christian learning in the Rhodope must have been there as wellRhodope must have been there as well

Fragments of the True Cross Found at Perperikon Recent research has revealed that Perperikon's glory did not fade into oblivion

during the age of Christianity. In the 5th-7th century, it was probably the see of an early diocese, and in the 8th-12th century it became regional centre under the direct authority of Constantinople. The surviving historical records are supported by an abundance of interesting archaeological finds. One of them is of particular value.

On 21 August 2002, a cruciform pendant reliquary made of bronze was found in one of the chambers of the Christian place of worship at the foot of Perperikon. Such pendant reliquaries were known as Palestine crosses for they were believed to have come from the Holy Land. The Perperikon find was dated quite accurately to the 9th-10th century judging by its characteristic iconography. Both sides of the pendant are modelled in high relief, one depicting a crucifix, Christ alive on the cross and clad with a long robe, and the other showing the Holy Mother in prayer interceding before her Son in behalf of humanity.

The real surprise came a few months later, when the reliquary was opened in a laboratory environment: several tiny pieces of what might be wood were found inside. Paleobotanic analysis confirmed that the material was indeed wood but, unfortunately, the surviving quantity was insufficient to determine the wood variety or date the find. It is quite certain, however, that the reliquary had held fragments of the True Cross, i.e., reputedly, the wood of the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Legend relates that the True Cross was found by St. Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, during her pilgrimage to the Holy Land about 326. The relic was originally deposited in the Byzantine capital Constantinople. In 1204, the crusaders captured and plundered the city, their justification being the desire to obtain possession of the True Cross.

Relics of the True Cross and reliquaries Relics of the True Cross and reliquaries designed to hold them, also known as designed to hold them, also known as staurotheques (stauros, Greek for cross), staurotheques (stauros, Greek for cross), multiplied wherever Christianity expanded in multiplied wherever Christianity expanded in the mediaeval world, and some precious the mediaeval world, and some precious objects of this kind survive. Until 2002, only two objects of this kind survive. Until 2002, only two reliquaries holding wood fragments had been reliquaries holding wood fragments had been found in Bulgaria: one at Pliska and one at found in Bulgaria: one at Pliska and one at Veliki Preslav (successive capitals of the first Veliki Preslav (successive capitals of the first Bulgarian empire). The find in the Eastern Bulgarian empire). The find in the Eastern Rhodope was therefore perceived by many as a Rhodope was therefore perceived by many as a good omen. On 1 December 2002, hundreds of good omen. On 1 December 2002, hundreds of believers joined the procession which took the believers joined the procession which took the relic to the church Dormition of Mary in relic to the church Dormition of Mary in Kurdzhali where it was deposited in a specially Kurdzhali where it was deposited in a specially designed wooden casket.designed wooden casket.

The AcropolisThe Acropolis In 45 AD, Thrace was conquered by the Romans. In the Balkans, In 45 AD, Thrace was conquered by the Romans. In the Balkans,

the process of Romanisation, which went on throughout the vast the process of Romanisation, which went on throughout the vast empire, meant the fusion of the ancient Hellenic and Thracian empire, meant the fusion of the ancient Hellenic and Thracian traditions with the new trends introduced by the conquerors. This traditions with the new trends introduced by the conquerors. This development was particularly pronounced at Perperikon, where development was particularly pronounced at Perperikon, where during the 1st-4th century AD, the sacred structures carved in the during the 1st-4th century AD, the sacred structures carved in the rock took on a distinct Classical character.rock took on a distinct Classical character.

Broadly speaking, Perperikon comprises four elements: the citadel, Broadly speaking, Perperikon comprises four elements: the citadel, an acropolis at the top of the hill; a palace or temple immediately an acropolis at the top of the hill; a palace or temple immediately beneath the acropolis and facing southeast; and two outer cities, beneath the acropolis and facing southeast; and two outer cities, one on the northern and one on the southern slope of the hill. So one on the northern and one on the southern slope of the hill. So far, no archaeological research has been done of the two outer far, no archaeological research has been done of the two outer cities but terrain observations indicate that they had streets and cities but terrain observations indicate that they had streets and secular and religious buildings carved in the rock. A host of villages secular and religious buildings carved in the rock. A host of villages flocked at the foot of the hill and the fertile river valley was flocked at the foot of the hill and the fertile river valley was densely inhabited throughout the period of Roman rule. The hilltop densely inhabited throughout the period of Roman rule. The hilltop was protected by the acropolis whose walls are 8 and a half feet was protected by the acropolis whose walls are 8 and a half feet thick. The citadel had probably been built earlier but the Romans thick. The citadel had probably been built earlier but the Romans renovated it and enhanced the fortifications. No bonding mixture renovated it and enhanced the fortifications. No bonding mixture was used for the walls; they were built of solid stone blocks, was used for the walls; they were built of solid stone blocks, perfectly finished on each side, and layers of crushed rock perfectly finished on each side, and layers of crushed rock separated the rows of blocks.separated the rows of blocks.

All along its perimeter, the wall was built All along its perimeter, the wall was built directly onto the rock surface of the hillside. directly onto the rock surface of the hillside. The builders had to carve special beds in the The builders had to carve special beds in the rock to lay the foundation blocks. These have rock to lay the foundation blocks. These have been wrongly described as steps, while they been wrongly described as steps, while they actually allow to trace the perimeter where actually allow to trace the perimeter where sections of the wall are missing. Behind the sections of the wall are missing. Behind the walls, the acropolis was densely built up. The walls, the acropolis was densely built up. The ground floors of the buildings were entirely ground floors of the buildings were entirely carved in the rock. Even though a considerable carved in the rock. Even though a considerable part of the complex is still covered with earth, part of the complex is still covered with earth, the 21st century visitor can walk down broad the 21st century visitor can walk down broad streets and step over doorsills carved in the streets and step over doorsills carved in the rock, with holes for the doorposts preserved. As rock, with holes for the doorposts preserved. As if not so long ago, Perperikon was still a vibrant if not so long ago, Perperikon was still a vibrant community.community.

           

Carved in the rock in the eastern part of Carved in the rock in the eastern part of the acropolis is a large basilica-planned the acropolis is a large basilica-planned structure. Archaeological research structure. Archaeological research suggests that it was a pagan temple suggests that it was a pagan temple transformed into a Christian church by transformed into a Christian church by the addition of an apse to house the altar. the addition of an apse to house the altar. At the western end, two monumental At the western end, two monumental stone portals preserve the holes for what stone portals preserve the holes for what must have been double doors. A portico must have been double doors. A portico leads from the basilica into the heart of leads from the basilica into the heart of the acropolis, its columns intact, still in the acropolis, its columns intact, still in place, thus completing the Classical place, thus completing the Classical makeup of the structure.makeup of the structure.

To see such a wonder of human creation on a craggy hilltop in the To see such a wonder of human creation on a craggy hilltop in the deepest recess of a wild mountain almost defies belief. Two gates deepest recess of a wild mountain almost defies belief. Two gates of the acropolis have been unearthed so far. One leads into the of the acropolis have been unearthed so far. One leads into the citadel from the west and is guarded by a rectangular barbican; citadel from the west and is guarded by a rectangular barbican; the other, opening onto the south, was discovered in 2002 and is the other, opening onto the south, was discovered in 2002 and is particularly important because it leads to a grand palace (or particularly important because it leads to a grand palace (or temple).temple).

Perfectly preserved doorways with stone sills, elegant stairs and Perfectly preserved doorways with stone sills, elegant stairs and corridors lead to the ground floor rooms. During the Roman period, corridors lead to the ground floor rooms. During the Roman period, the floors were covered with solid ceramic tiles. Some windows, the floors were covered with solid ceramic tiles. Some windows, cut through the rock walls, also survive, opening onto a cut through the rock walls, also survive, opening onto a magnificent panorama of the river valley.magnificent panorama of the river valley.

A very important element in the ensemble is the Great Hall, carved A very important element in the ensemble is the Great Hall, carved in the rock at its western end and extending 90 ft to the east over in the rock at its western end and extending 90 ft to the east over a wooden beam structure supported by two massive walls. At the a wooden beam structure supported by two massive walls. At the entrance, a flight of five broad steps leads to the double door. Two entrance, a flight of five broad steps leads to the double door. Two vaults carved deep in the rock were found in the remote western vaults carved deep in the rock were found in the remote western and eastern sections of the palace, one holding 15, and the other, and eastern sections of the palace, one holding 15, and the other, five sarcophaguses made of solid stone slabs. Unfortunately, these five sarcophaguses made of solid stone slabs. Unfortunately, these must have been ransacked already in ancient times and it is must have been ransacked already in ancient times and it is impossible to tell who was buried in them.impossible to tell who was buried in them.

A Masterpiece of Engineering and ArchitectureA Masterpiece of Engineering and Architecture The palace and all the other structures on Perperikon are an amazing The palace and all the other structures on Perperikon are an amazing

achievement of architectural creativity and craftsmanship. One's heart fills achievement of architectural creativity and craftsmanship. One's heart fills with awe as one passes through doors first opened a thousand years ago; with awe as one passes through doors first opened a thousand years ago; steps onto thresholds that still keep the traces of generations long gone steps onto thresholds that still keep the traces of generations long gone by; walks along mysterious passageways once lit by the light of torches.by; walks along mysterious passageways once lit by the light of torches.

Today, one can only speculate what some of the elements were meant for: Today, one can only speculate what some of the elements were meant for: niches and shelves of various sizes; a massive throne with footstool and niches and shelves of various sizes; a massive throne with footstool and armrests carved out of the rock at the northern wall of the palace court. A armrests carved out of the rock at the northern wall of the palace court. A chamber in the south-western wing of the palace was named by the chamber in the south-western wing of the palace was named by the archaeologists 'the bathroom', as what appear to be washbasins and archaeologists 'the bathroom', as what appear to be washbasins and benches line the walls. In the basement under the Great Hall, a round bed benches line the walls. In the basement under the Great Hall, a round bed in the rock must have held an enormous pulley: a part of hoisting in the rock must have held an enormous pulley: a part of hoisting mechanism perhaps, like those described by the ancient authors...mechanism perhaps, like those described by the ancient authors...

Yet another structural feature demonstrates an amazing engineering Yet another structural feature demonstrates an amazing engineering talent. Already the first builders of Perperikon had to consider the need to talent. Already the first builders of Perperikon had to consider the need to drain off the rain from the vast floor surfaces. The sewer system grew drain off the rain from the vast floor surfaces. The sewer system grew more complex with subsequent developments of the site to reach its final more complex with subsequent developments of the site to reach its final stage during the Roman period. Gutters run under the floor tiles in every stage during the Roman period. Gutters run under the floor tiles in every room, across the doorsills and into larger ones along the streets, complete room, across the doorsills and into larger ones along the streets, complete with shafts to clean the system from leaves and dirt. These empty into with shafts to clean the system from leaves and dirt. These empty into several large sewers which take the water out under the perimeter walls several large sewers which take the water out under the perimeter walls and down the side of the hill.and down the side of the hill.

   

Yet another structural feature demonstrates an amazing Yet another structural feature demonstrates an amazing engineering talent. Already the first builders of Perperikon had to engineering talent. Already the first builders of Perperikon had to consider the need to drain off the rain from the vast floor surfaces. consider the need to drain off the rain from the vast floor surfaces. The sewer system grew more complex with subsequent The sewer system grew more complex with subsequent developments of the site to reach its final stage during the Roman developments of the site to reach its final stage during the Roman period. Gutters run under the floor tiles in every room, across the period. Gutters run under the floor tiles in every room, across the doorsills and into larger ones along the streets, complete with doorsills and into larger ones along the streets, complete with shafts to clean the system from leaves and dirt. These empty into shafts to clean the system from leaves and dirt. These empty into several large sewers which take the water out under the perimeter several large sewers which take the water out under the perimeter walls and down the side of the hill.walls and down the side of the hill.

But then, drinking water had to be provided as well. This must But then, drinking water had to be provided as well. This must have been a serious challenge in a citadel perched on the top of a have been a serious challenge in a citadel perched on the top of a hill. The usual solution were cisterns to collect rain or spring water. hill. The usual solution were cisterns to collect rain or spring water. So far, two such reservoirs have been discovered at Perperikon, So far, two such reservoirs have been discovered at Perperikon, and they are the largest structures of this kind found in the and they are the largest structures of this kind found in the Rhodope. The one in the acropolis has a perimeter of 36 ft by 15 ft Rhodope. The one in the acropolis has a perimeter of 36 ft by 15 ft and is 18 ft deep.and is 18 ft deep.

Amazingly again, both cisterns were carved in the rock with walls Amazingly again, both cisterns were carved in the rock with walls perfectly finished. Furthermore, there are reasons to believe that perfectly finished. Furthermore, there are reasons to believe that the city had a pipe network for drinking water supply. In 2002, an the city had a pipe network for drinking water supply. In 2002, an ancient water fountain was discovered at about a mile from ancient water fountain was discovered at about a mile from Perperikon. The water was brought to it by clay pipes and a metal Perperikon. The water was brought to it by clay pipes and a metal spout mounted in a stone base filled three communicating stone spout mounted in a stone base filled three communicating stone troughs.troughs.

The Christian PerperikonThe Christian Perperikon In the late Roman period, Perperikon's prosperity was overshadowed by strife and In the late Roman period, Perperikon's prosperity was overshadowed by strife and

upheaval in the Empire. In the southern Balkans, the 4th century saw the Goths upheaval in the Empire. In the southern Balkans, the 4th century saw the Goths wreak havoc and devastation in the land. Archaeological research indicates that wreak havoc and devastation in the land. Archaeological research indicates that Perperikon was captured and burned by the invaders. Very soon however, in the Perperikon was captured and burned by the invaders. Very soon however, in the 5th-6th century, the city rose from its ashes as the eastern half of the Roman 5th-6th century, the city rose from its ashes as the eastern half of the Roman Empire (Byzantium) regained its lost possessions, particularly so under Justinian I Empire (Byzantium) regained its lost possessions, particularly so under Justinian I (527-565). The same emperor commissioned colossal construction works restoring (527-565). The same emperor commissioned colossal construction works restoring and redeveloping the ancient cities.and redeveloping the ancient cities.

The fortifications at Perperikon were repaired and enhanced on the vulnerable The fortifications at Perperikon were repaired and enhanced on the vulnerable west side. The basilica in the acropolis was converted into a Christian church and west side. The basilica in the acropolis was converted into a Christian church and more churches were built in the surrounding lowland. Then, the Slavs came from more churches were built in the surrounding lowland. Then, the Slavs came from the North, and the Arabs, from the South-East. At stake was the Empire's very the North, and the Arabs, from the South-East. At stake was the Empire's very existence. In the early 7th century, Perperikon's brand-new fortification system existence. In the early 7th century, Perperikon's brand-new fortification system was suddenly abandoned.was suddenly abandoned.

Some inhabitants stayed on but life in the city was a mere semblance of former Some inhabitants stayed on but life in the city was a mere semblance of former grandeur. The sacred rocks, however, attracted new worshipers. A horde of grandeur. The sacred rocks, however, attracted new worshipers. A horde of Bulgars led by Kuber were settled by the Byzantine emperor in the vicinity of Bulgars led by Kuber were settled by the Byzantine emperor in the vicinity of Thessalonica. These Bulgars left several sets of graffiti on the southern slopes of Thessalonica. These Bulgars left several sets of graffiti on the southern slopes of the Rhodope, very similar to the ones found in the north-east of Bulgaria. The the Rhodope, very similar to the ones found in the north-east of Bulgaria. The graffiti at Perperikon belong to the same tradition and apparently had a ritual graffiti at Perperikon belong to the same tradition and apparently had a ritual purpose, depicting a game of checkers, female genitalia and the Turkic fertility purpose, depicting a game of checkers, female genitalia and the Turkic fertility goddess Umai scratched with a sharp instrument on the highest rock of the hill.goddess Umai scratched with a sharp instrument on the highest rock of the hill.

As the Byzantine Empire regained some stability in the 9th century, life flourished As the Byzantine Empire regained some stability in the 9th century, life flourished at the foot of Perperikon where the regional centre of the Eastern Rhodope was at the foot of Perperikon where the regional centre of the Eastern Rhodope was established. Several centuries later, the citadel rose in importance again when the established. Several centuries later, the citadel rose in importance again when the new administrative division of Achrydos was established in the early 14th century. new administrative division of Achrydos was established in the early 14th century. In 1339, in a letter from the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Perperikon was referred to In 1339, in a letter from the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Perperikon was referred to as an eparchy, which had apparently seceded from the old eparchy of Achridos. as an eparchy, which had apparently seceded from the old eparchy of Achridos. Archaeological findings indicate that a new church of stone and white mortar was Archaeological findings indicate that a new church of stone and white mortar was built at that time on the remains of the ancient temple in the acropolis. A sizeable built at that time on the remains of the ancient temple in the acropolis. A sizeable

necropolis close to the church indicates a necropolis close to the church indicates a considerable growth in population.considerable growth in population.

New quarters of huts partially dug into New quarters of huts partially dug into the rock emerged and some of the old the rock emerged and some of the old streets were reused. A great deal of streets were reused. A great deal of pottery and various other items from that pottery and various other items from that period have been unearthed, including period have been unearthed, including silver coins struck by Ivan Alexander, silver coins struck by Ivan Alexander, quite rare in the region and indicating the quite rare in the region and indicating the brief spell of his rule over Perperikon in brief spell of his rule over Perperikon in 1343.1343.

The Regional Centre and Episcopal Residence at The Regional Centre and Episcopal Residence at the Foot of Perperikonthe Foot of Perperikon

In the 8th-9th century, the seat of authority moved In the 8th-9th century, the seat of authority moved from the hilltop to the foot of Perperikon. In the vicinity from the hilltop to the foot of Perperikon. In the vicinity of what is now the village of Chiflik, at a sight-line of what is now the village of Chiflik, at a sight-line distance of about a mile and a half from the citadel, is a distance of about a mile and a half from the citadel, is a place now known by its Turkish name Klise Ba?i. place now known by its Turkish name Klise Ba?i. Extensive excavation was done there in 2001-2002, Extensive excavation was done there in 2001-2002, resulting in very interesting finds.resulting in very interesting finds.

A beautiful church was discovered on a broad terrace A beautiful church was discovered on a broad terrace along the Perpereshka river. Three apses were placed along the Perpereshka river. Three apses were placed at the east end of the structure and semicircular niches at the east end of the structure and semicircular niches adorned the north and the south sidewalls; a massive adorned the north and the south sidewalls; a massive dome rose above the crossing. The plan is 40 ft long dome rose above the crossing. The plan is 40 ft long and 36 ft wide. At the west end, a narthex of three and 36 ft wide. At the west end, a narthex of three parts formed the entrance where two columns carried a parts formed the entrance where two columns carried a pediment with a cross fleuri decorating the tympanum. pediment with a cross fleuri decorating the tympanum. The design of the sidewalls is very elegant: coursed The design of the sidewalls is very elegant: coursed redbrick and white cut-stone masonry, polygonal redbrick and white cut-stone masonry, polygonal surfaces, blank arches, niches.surfaces, blank arches, niches.

The altar section is elongated with two side altars communicating with the The altar section is elongated with two side altars communicating with the main one. As in the Kurdzhali church St. John Prodromus, there was a main one. As in the Kurdzhali church St. John Prodromus, there was a communion table in each of the three altar chambers. In the side ones the communion table in each of the three altar chambers. In the side ones the tables were made of dressed stone slabs placed against the back wall of tables were made of dressed stone slabs placed against the back wall of the apse; the main altar was propped on a column placed on a rectangular the apse; the main altar was propped on a column placed on a rectangular base. It was seen above the low cancelli (or rails), separating it from the base. It was seen above the low cancelli (or rails), separating it from the nave, of which only the marble base survives. The cancelli were nave, of which only the marble base survives. The cancelli were constructed of small polygonal columns and marble slabs decorated on constructed of small polygonal columns and marble slabs decorated on both sides with floral motifs. A rare element of the interior design is the both sides with floral motifs. A rare element of the interior design is the use of white-clay pottery decorated in polychrome: the cancelli slabs were use of white-clay pottery decorated in polychrome: the cancelli slabs were lined with small ceramic tiles featuring complex floral and geometrical lined with small ceramic tiles featuring complex floral and geometrical motifs in white, green, blue, black and ochre yellow. The quality of motifs in white, green, blue, black and ochre yellow. The quality of workmanship is outstanding; the tiles were probably made in workmanship is outstanding; the tiles were probably made in Constantinople. Similar objects have only been found in the Byzantine Constantinople. Similar objects have only been found in the Byzantine capital and in Veliki Preslav. The church had a skilfully laid brick floor. At capital and in Veliki Preslav. The church had a skilfully laid brick floor. At the crossing, fully preserved, is a rectangular opus sectile mosaic: in a the crossing, fully preserved, is a rectangular opus sectile mosaic: in a stylised but easily recognisable representation of the cross, red bricks and stylised but easily recognisable representation of the cross, red bricks and triangular white marble pieces form a beautiful carpet-like pattern. triangular white marble pieces form a beautiful carpet-like pattern. Hanging from the dome above it was a monumental bronze chandelier Hanging from the dome above it was a monumental bronze chandelier with glass lamps, fragments of which were discovered in the excavation.with glass lamps, fragments of which were discovered in the excavation.

The structure can reasonably be dated to the 9th century and exhibits a The structure can reasonably be dated to the 9th century and exhibits a direct influence by the Constantinople school of architecture. A small direct influence by the Constantinople school of architecture. A small chapel with a tomb was unearthed north of the church, such as might chapel with a tomb was unearthed north of the church, such as might have existed on the south side as well, where the remnants were found of have existed on the south side as well, where the remnants were found of a rectangular structure with a vestibule and a marble vault under the a rectangular structure with a vestibule and a marble vault under the floor. A large secular necropolis developed to the west and north of the floor. A large secular necropolis developed to the west and north of the church, of which more church, of which more

than 100 burials have been researched. Most of the graves are lined with cut stone than 100 burials have been researched. Most of the graves are lined with cut stone slabs and - a rare practice in the Middle Ages - marked with a small headstone slabs and - a rare practice in the Middle Ages - marked with a small headstone pillar, a cross carved in it. Most of the artefacts found in the graves are related to pillar, a cross carved in it. Most of the artefacts found in the graves are related to Christian worship.Christian worship.

Initially, the site was thought to be a part of a major Byzantine monastery. No traces Initially, the site was thought to be a part of a major Byzantine monastery. No traces of any enclosure were found, however, to connect the temples with the other of any enclosure were found, however, to connect the temples with the other structures which emerged under the earth south of the church. These are several structures which emerged under the earth south of the church. These are several public buildings separated by narrow passages. Each has a central flight of steps at public buildings separated by narrow passages. Each has a central flight of steps at the entrance. One of the buildings apparently served to store archives, judging by the entrance. One of the buildings apparently served to store archives, judging by the great number of lead seals (molybdobullae) found it in. These finds support the the great number of lead seals (molybdobullae) found it in. These finds support the alternative hypothesis that the complex was the seat of the regional governor of alternative hypothesis that the complex was the seat of the regional governor of Achrydos (or Eastern Rhodope), and might also have been a place of residence for Achrydos (or Eastern Rhodope), and might also have been a place of residence for the regional bishop, whose seat was the St. John Prodromus monastery.the regional bishop, whose seat was the St. John Prodromus monastery.

The Unique Archives of the Regional GovernorThe Unique Archives of the Regional Governor In the 1930s, the Bulgarian archaeologists received a photograph of a Byzantine In the 1930s, the Bulgarian archaeologists received a photograph of a Byzantine

lead seal from a Viennese repository. After a long and laborious effort, the lead seal from a Viennese repository. After a long and laborious effort, the inscription on it was deciphered: a reference to Constantine, Bishop of Achrydos. inscription on it was deciphered: a reference to Constantine, Bishop of Achrydos. Achrydos, while initially thought to be Ohrid (now in Macedonia), spelt the same in Achrydos, while initially thought to be Ohrid (now in Macedonia), spelt the same in Greek, was soon confirmed to be the region of that name on the middle and lower Greek, was soon confirmed to be the region of that name on the middle and lower Arda river. The mystery was yet to be unveiled, however, for despite the detailed Arda river. The mystery was yet to be unveiled, however, for despite the detailed search, an eparchy of that name was not found in the records of the Ecumenical search, an eparchy of that name was not found in the records of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. It was not until the excavations on the site of the St. John Prodromus Patriarchate. It was not until the excavations on the site of the St. John Prodromus monastery in Kurdzhali had made some progress, that it became clear that monastery in Kurdzhali had made some progress, that it became clear that Achrydos had been an eparchy at some time in the 9th-14th century and that the Achrydos had been an eparchy at some time in the 9th-14th century and that the monastery had been the seat of a bishop. Then, the excavation of the regional monastery had been the seat of a bishop. Then, the excavation of the regional centre at Perperikon created a real sensation.centre at Perperikon created a real sensation.

In a matter of two years, 100 lead seals were found, which, In a matter of two years, 100 lead seals were found, which, together with another 115 reputedly kept in private collections, together with another 115 reputedly kept in private collections, make up one of the largest archaeological finds of Byzantine make up one of the largest archaeological finds of Byzantine molybdobullae in the world. There could be no doubt that the molybdobullae in the world. There could be no doubt that the archaeologists had discovered the regional archives. The paper archaeologists had discovered the regional archives. The paper had burnt away or decayed but the lead seal attached to the had burnt away or decayed but the lead seal attached to the document survived. But what was a molybdobulla? It was, in a document survived. But what was a molybdobulla? It was, in a manner of speaking, a business card. On mediaeval Byzantine and manner of speaking, a business card. On mediaeval Byzantine and Bulgarian molybdobullae, one side usually depicted the patron Bulgarian molybdobullae, one side usually depicted the patron saint of the owner, while the other side contained the full details of saint of the owner, while the other side contained the full details of the owner's name, title and origin, and position in society. Such the owner's name, title and origin, and position in society. Such lead seals were always personalised, made to order, and certified lead seals were always personalised, made to order, and certified the owner's identity and the origin of the documents to which they the owner's identity and the origin of the documents to which they were attached. To the historian, they are therefore an invaluable were attached. To the historian, they are therefore an invaluable source of information.source of information.It is from the lead seals found at the foot of Perperikon that one It is from the lead seals found at the foot of Perperikon that one could reasonably conclude that a regional centre was established could reasonably conclude that a regional centre was established there some time in the 9th-12th century. Likewise, the find there some time in the 9th-12th century. Likewise, the find indicates that the land was held in personal possession by the indicates that the land was held in personal possession by the emperor and was under the direct authority of Constantinople: 80 emperor and was under the direct authority of Constantinople: 80 per cent of the molybdobullae belonged to high central per cent of the molybdobullae belonged to high central government officials, such as privy councillors and imperial government officials, such as privy councillors and imperial treasury officers, and there is even the seal of the 'ink-bearer', one treasury officers, and there is even the seal of the 'ink-bearer', one of the emperor's personal aides who followed him everywhere with of the emperor's personal aides who followed him everywhere with a pot of the red ink with which only he had the right to sign his a pot of the red ink with which only he had the right to sign his name.name.

There are also names of regional governors and other high regional officials, such as There are also names of regional governors and other high regional officials, such as the Strategus of Mesopotamia and Asia Minor, the Protonotary of Macedonia (then a the Strategus of Mesopotamia and Asia Minor, the Protonotary of Macedonia (then a region between Hadrianopole and Thessalonica), the chief customs inspector of region between Hadrianopole and Thessalonica), the chief customs inspector of Thessalonica. Some of the names went down in history, among them: the Byzantine Thessalonica. Some of the names went down in history, among them: the Byzantine general Basil Monachus and the founder of the famous dynasty of the Palaeologi general Basil Monachus and the founder of the famous dynasty of the Palaeologi Michael VIII Palaeologus. The seals of bishops are a particularly interesting Michael VIII Palaeologus. The seals of bishops are a particularly interesting discovery. Two of them came from the eparchy of Velikia somewhere in the discovery. Two of them came from the eparchy of Velikia somewhere in the Rhodope Mountains, its precise location still unknown. Not fewer than five belonged Rhodope Mountains, its precise location still unknown. Not fewer than five belonged to 10th-12th century bishops of Achrydos: Eustaticus, Thomas, Theodore and the to 10th-12th century bishops of Achrydos: Eustaticus, Thomas, Theodore and the well-known Constantine. The episcopal letters, and the seals attached to them, well-known Constantine. The episcopal letters, and the seals attached to them, could not have come from elsewhere but the St. John Prodromus monastery. In could not have come from elsewhere but the St. John Prodromus monastery. In addition to the seals, however, some 30 matrices, used to cast them, were found on addition to the seals, however, some 30 matrices, used to cast them, were found on the Perperikon site. Apparently, these were attached to correspondence issuing the Perperikon site. Apparently, these were attached to correspondence issuing from the regional centre and, therefore, a second residence of the Achrydos bishop from the regional centre and, therefore, a second residence of the Achrydos bishop must have been established there in the 9th-12th century.must have been established there in the 9th-12th century.

The Treasure Trove at PerperikonThe Treasure Trove at Perperikon The intensive excavation work done recently at Perperikon quite naturally yielded a The intensive excavation work done recently at Perperikon quite naturally yielded a

wealth of magnificent archaeological finds. Going down to the deepest prehistorical wealth of magnificent archaeological finds. Going down to the deepest prehistorical strata, where, understandably, no gold or silver artefacts could be found, the strata, where, understandably, no gold or silver artefacts could be found, the archaeologists unearthed beautiful pieces of late Bronze Age pottery and even archaeologists unearthed beautiful pieces of late Bronze Age pottery and even earlier ceramic utensils and several stone axes from the Eneolithic Period.earlier ceramic utensils and several stone axes from the Eneolithic Period.

The period of Classical Antiquity in Perperikon's surviving architecture is fully The period of Classical Antiquity in Perperikon's surviving architecture is fully matched by the artefacts found on the site. One of the earliest Thracian silver coins, matched by the artefacts found on the site. One of the earliest Thracian silver coins, dated to the 5th century BC, was found at the foot of the hill. The period dated to the 5th century BC, was found at the foot of the hill. The period of Roman of Roman rule (1st-4th century AD)rule (1st-4th century AD) carried the local tradition up to a higher level: an carried the local tradition up to a higher level: an abundance of fine red-glaze and moulded pottery was found and a great deal of abundance of fine red-glaze and moulded pottery was found and a great deal of coins, indicating a brisk trade with other parts of the ancient world.coins, indicating a brisk trade with other parts of the ancient world.

The items of finery are quite exceptional: a fragment of a bronze The items of finery are quite exceptional: a fragment of a bronze statuette of a Thracian horseman (1st-2nd century AD); a unique statuette of a Thracian horseman (1st-2nd century AD); a unique silver ring, a masterpiece in its own time (2nd-3rd century AD), silver ring, a masterpiece in its own time (2nd-3rd century AD), with a carnelian intaglio depicting Helios, the Greek sun god, with a carnelian intaglio depicting Helios, the Greek sun god, driving his quadriga, a chariot drawn by four horses;driving his quadriga, a chariot drawn by four horses;

a round bronze plate with an impression of Heracles wearing the a round bronze plate with an impression of Heracles wearing the skin of the Nemean lion and leaning on his proverbial club; other skin of the Nemean lion and leaning on his proverbial club; other items of jewellery, such as fibulae and earrings. Curiously, items of jewellery, such as fibulae and earrings. Curiously, fragments of ancient silverware were found, among them a rare fragments of ancient silverware were found, among them a rare silver mirror, which, in a later period, were apparently cut for silver mirror, which, in a later period, were apparently cut for melting. Most of the gold artefacts date from late Antiquity (5th-melting. Most of the gold artefacts date from late Antiquity (5th-6th century AD), among them: a fragment of a patrician diadem 6th century AD), among them: a fragment of a patrician diadem and a coin struck and a coin struck by Emperor Justin (516-527).by Emperor Justin (516-527). The period The period stratum revealed also an abundance of magnificent pottery and stratum revealed also an abundance of magnificent pottery and coins, indicating economic revival after the devastation of the Goth coins, indicating economic revival after the devastation of the Goth onslaught.onslaught.

The Middle Ages, too, have a noteworthy share in Perperikon's The Middle Ages, too, have a noteworthy share in Perperikon's archaeological cornucopia. The collection of lead seals archaeological cornucopia. The collection of lead seals (molybdobullae) from the regional centre at the foot of the hill is (molybdobullae) from the regional centre at the foot of the hill is unique in world heritage. More than 20 bronze cross pendants unique in world heritage. More than 20 bronze cross pendants

of different sizes were found there too. One of them of different sizes were found there too. One of them turned out to be a reliquary holding fragments of the turned out to be a reliquary holding fragments of the True Cross! Icons of Christian saints adorn the crosses; True Cross! Icons of Christian saints adorn the crosses; a silver medallion carries the icon of St. Basil and an a silver medallion carries the icon of St. Basil and an obsidian intaglio depicts full-length Archangel Michael, obsidian intaglio depicts full-length Archangel Michael, who was probably the patron saint of the main temple.who was probably the patron saint of the main temple.

Standing out among these treasures is an exceptionally Standing out among these treasures is an exceptionally beautiful silver key which apparently belonged to a beautiful silver key which apparently belonged to a jewel box. Various techniques were used to craft its jewel box. Various techniques were used to craft its lacelike openwork body and its handle rotating on a lacelike openwork body and its handle rotating on a small hinge at right angles to the shaft to serve as a small hinge at right angles to the shaft to serve as a seal. This is another unique world heritage find from the seal. This is another unique world heritage find from the period. To date, the recent excavations at Perperikon period. To date, the recent excavations at Perperikon have literally shed light on thousands of invaluable have literally shed light on thousands of invaluable artefacts which have revealed the true glory of this holy artefacts which have revealed the true glory of this holy city. Soon, they will grace the collections of the city. Soon, they will grace the collections of the Regional Museum of History in Kurdzhali to delight the Regional Museum of History in Kurdzhali to delight the eye and challenge the mind.eye and challenge the mind.

The Saint John Prodromus MonasteryThe Saint John Prodromus Monastery This unique monument of Byzantine and Old This unique monument of Byzantine and Old

Bulgarian architecture is located in one of the Bulgarian architecture is located in one of the residential areas of the present-day town of residential areas of the present-day town of Kurdzhali. The earliest Christian churches Kurdzhali. The earliest Christian churches appeared there in the second half of the 9th appeared there in the second half of the 9th century on a small hill to which the Arda river century on a small hill to which the Arda river winding around it afforded natural protection. winding around it afforded natural protection. The main temple was of a rare mixed architecture The main temple was of a rare mixed architecture marked by the gradual transition from the marked by the gradual transition from the basilican to the Greek-cross plan which came to basilican to the Greek-cross plan which came to dominate Byzantine ecclesiastical building. It had dominate Byzantine ecclesiastical building. It had three apses, each housing an altar (a communion three apses, each housing an altar (a communion table), a remnant of an early tradition in Eastern table), a remnant of an early tradition in Eastern Christianity which prohibited the use of the same Christianity which prohibited the use of the same altar more than once a day. A small chapel, altar more than once a day. A small chapel, holding the grave of a prominent Christian holding the grave of a prominent Christian missionary, was attached to the southern wall of missionary, was attached to the southern wall of the church.the church.

At the very beginning of the 11th century, the two structures were At the very beginning of the 11th century, the two structures were completely dismantled and one of the most magnificent Orthodox completely dismantled and one of the most magnificent Orthodox monasteries in the Balkans was built on their foundations. To protect it monasteries in the Balkans was built on their foundations. To protect it from enemy attacks, a strong castle wall with eight rectangular towers from enemy attacks, a strong castle wall with eight rectangular towers was built around it. A grand church, almost 65 ft long, stood at the centre was built around it. A grand church, almost 65 ft long, stood at the centre of the court, a broad portico and a narthex at its entrance. Inside, a huge of the court, a broad portico and a narthex at its entrance. Inside, a huge dome standing on four pillars covered the crossing. Again, there were dome standing on four pillars covered the crossing. Again, there were three apses at the east end for the altars. During mass, the monks stood three apses at the east end for the altars. During mass, the monks stood in two large semicircular niches, one in each sidewall.in two large semicircular niches, one in each sidewall.

These and other characteristics of the design point to the so called Mount These and other characteristics of the design point to the so called Mount Athos style in ecclesiastical building, which became common in the 11th Athos style in ecclesiastical building, which became common in the 11th century after the introduction of organised monastic life by St. Athanasius century after the introduction of organised monastic life by St. Athanasius the Athonite on Mt. Athos. In structural detail, the church in Kurdzhali was the Athonite on Mt. Athos. In structural detail, the church in Kurdzhali was indeed akin to the earliest church on Mt. Athos, that of the Great Laura indeed akin to the earliest church on Mt. Athos, that of the Great Laura founded by Athanasius himself. This main church of the St. John founded by Athanasius himself. This main church of the St. John Prodromus monastery was lavishly decorated. The wall surfaces were Prodromus monastery was lavishly decorated. The wall surfaces were picked out with courses of stone and brick masonry, polygonal elements, picked out with courses of stone and brick masonry, polygonal elements, blank arches and niches. An abundance of marble ornaments adorned the blank arches and niches. An abundance of marble ornaments adorned the interior. In the mid 12th century, it was fully painted with icons of warrior interior. In the mid 12th century, it was fully painted with icons of warrior saints and hermits and fathers of the church. On one of these wall saints and hermits and fathers of the church. On one of these wall paintings, a graffito in Old Bulgarian was discovered which revealed the paintings, a graffito in Old Bulgarian was discovered which revealed the original name of the monastery.original name of the monastery.

The court was densely built up. In the 11th century, shortly after the main The court was densely built up. In the 11th century, shortly after the main church itself had been built, a very elegant chapel with a trifoliate leaf church itself had been built, a very elegant chapel with a trifoliate leaf plan was attached to its north wall. East of the church was the refectory, plan was attached to its north wall. East of the church was the refectory, an important element in monasteries observing the code of community an important element in monasteries observing the code of community life. life.

Connected to it were the palatial quarters of the Connected to it were the palatial quarters of the abbot, who was also local bishop.abbot, who was also local bishop.The archaeological research has indicated that The archaeological research has indicated that the monastic community was quite affluent. the monastic community was quite affluent. Unfortunately, this did not escape the notice of Unfortunately, this did not escape the notice of the knights of the Fourth Crusade, who the knights of the Fourth Crusade, who plundered and destroyed the monastery in the plundered and destroyed the monastery in the 13th century. It was rebuilt but a century or so 13th century. It was rebuilt but a century or so later it was burned down and finally later it was burned down and finally abandoned. By the late 20th century, a 90 ft abandoned. By the late 20th century, a 90 ft mound of earth had buried the ruins.mound of earth had buried the ruins.

In the 1990s, the European Union and a number In the 1990s, the European Union and a number of Bulgarian foundations donated money for the of Bulgarian foundations donated money for the full reconstruction of the main church. On 23rd full reconstruction of the main church. On 23rd September 2000, the Metropolitan Bishop of September 2000, the Metropolitan Bishop of Plovdiv dedicated the new old church, restoring Plovdiv dedicated the new old church, restoring the ancient monastery to life.the ancient monastery to life.

The Episcopal TombThe Episcopal Tomb In November 1998, the reconstruction of the church St. John Prodromus in Kurdzhali In November 1998, the reconstruction of the church St. John Prodromus in Kurdzhali

had been going on for several months when the original pavement of the narthex had been going on for several months when the original pavement of the narthex had to be temporarily removed. As the work progressed, the massive stone covers had to be temporarily removed. As the work progressed, the massive stone covers of ancient sarcophaguses appeared before the archaeologists' unbelieving eyes.of ancient sarcophaguses appeared before the archaeologists' unbelieving eyes.

Those who eye-witnessed the astounding discovery will never forget the experience, Those who eye-witnessed the astounding discovery will never forget the experience, especially when a monumental tomb appeared in the south-west corner of the especially when a monumental tomb appeared in the south-west corner of the narthex. The archaeologists somehow knew that greater caution had to be narthex. The archaeologists somehow knew that greater caution had to be exercised there. The best chemical conservation specialists and experts in ancient exercised there. The best chemical conservation specialists and experts in ancient textile were called in. After a careful preparation, the stone cover was lifted and, for textile were called in. After a careful preparation, the stone cover was lifted and, for the first time in centuries, light fell again on a dazzling gold-embroidered garment. the first time in centuries, light fell again on a dazzling gold-embroidered garment. In an intricate 12-hour operation, the fabrics were meticulously documented in situ, In an intricate 12-hour operation, the fabrics were meticulously documented in situ, after which they were carefully lifted and taken to a laboratory. Today, they can after which they were carefully lifted and taken to a laboratory. Today, they can finally be exhibited after three years of conservation efforts.finally be exhibited after three years of conservation efforts.

As it turned out, the tomb had preserved the remains of a 13th-14th-century bishop. As it turned out, the tomb had preserved the remains of a 13th-14th-century bishop. At that time, the original entrance to the church had been walled up; a new, grander At that time, the original entrance to the church had been walled up; a new, grander entrance had been opened in its north side and the old narthex had been converted entrance had been opened in its north side and the old narthex had been converted into a crypt where prominent members of the clergy - local bishops and monks - into a crypt where prominent members of the clergy - local bishops and monks - were buried. Special care was taken to line the walls and the floor of the burial were buried. Special care was taken to line the walls and the floor of the burial chambers with stone or brickwork, and heavy stone slabs were chosen for covers. chambers with stone or brickwork, and heavy stone slabs were chosen for covers. The bishop's burial chamber was shaped like a bed with a headrest: it was The bishop's burial chamber was shaped like a bed with a headrest: it was customary to bury ecclesiastics of superior rank and authority in a sitting or semi-customary to bury ecclesiastics of superior rank and authority in a sitting or semi-reclining position.reclining position.More importantly, however, the almost airtight burial chamber had preserved the More importantly, however, the almost airtight burial chamber had preserved the fabrics in such a condition that the work done by the conservation experts, hard as fabrics in such a condition that the work done by the conservation experts, hard as it was, yielded a near perfect result. The bishop's body had been laid to rest in full it was, yielded a near perfect result. The bishop's body had been laid to rest in full liturgical garments and in a position of officiation with, apparently, an open book on liturgical garments and in a position of officiation with, apparently, an open book on his chest removed immediately before the chamber was closed.his chest removed immediately before the chamber was closed.

In various states of preservation, In various states of preservation, practically all the vestments worn by practically all the vestments worn by a bishop during divine service were a bishop during divine service were recovered. They are all made of silk recovered. They are all made of silk and adorned with beautiful gold-lace and adorned with beautiful gold-lace embroidery, which, in those days, embroidery, which, in those days, was the pride of Constantinople. (For was the pride of Constantinople. (For a long time, there was a ban on the a long time, there was a ban on the export of such articles from the export of such articles from the Empire, except on the Emperor's Empire, except on the Emperor's express orders.)express orders.)

The omophorion (a long silk embroidered scarf) is particularly important The omophorion (a long silk embroidered scarf) is particularly important as it is indicative of the hierarchical rank of the buried ecclesiastic: it is the as it is indicative of the hierarchical rank of the buried ecclesiastic: it is the distinctive vestment of bishops celebrating the holy liturgy. After a long distinctive vestment of bishops celebrating the holy liturgy. After a long and laborious effort, the epitrach?lion, the other ceremonial cloth band and laborious effort, the epitrach?lion, the other ceremonial cloth band worn by both bishops and priests, was restored to its full length of two-worn by both bishops and priests, was restored to its full length of two-thirds of a yard, thickly embroidered with geometrical and floral motifs. thirds of a yard, thickly embroidered with geometrical and floral motifs. The cuffs (or epimanikia) and the epigonation (a rhombic vestment worn The cuffs (or epimanikia) and the epigonation (a rhombic vestment worn on the right hip) are also adorned with magnificent embroidery, especially on the right hip) are also adorned with magnificent embroidery, especially the depiction of the Virgin Mary with an inscription in Greek.the depiction of the Virgin Mary with an inscription in Greek.

The vestments date from the period between the late 12th century and The vestments date from the period between the late 12th century and the early 14th century. Being so very expensive, they had been handed the early 14th century. Being so very expensive, they had been handed down from one bishop to another for probably close to a century (the back down from one bishop to another for probably close to a century (the back of the epitrach?lion wore out and had to be mended several times) before of the epitrach?lion wore out and had to be mended several times) before their last owner - apparently, held in the highest esteem - was laid to rest their last owner - apparently, held in the highest esteem - was laid to rest in them.in them.

Mediaeval FortressesMediaeval Fortresses The fortresses in the Eastern Rhodope are possibly the best preserved The fortresses in the Eastern Rhodope are possibly the best preserved

mediaeval strongholds in the territory of present-day Bulgaria. Unlike mediaeval strongholds in the territory of present-day Bulgaria. Unlike anywhere else in the country, 20-30 ft walls, perched on the tops of anywhere else in the country, 20-30 ft walls, perched on the tops of precipitous cliffs like the remains of giant eagle's nests, can still be seen precipitous cliffs like the remains of giant eagle's nests, can still be seen there.there.

Except for Perperikon and some other earlier defensive structures, all of Except for Perperikon and some other earlier defensive structures, all of these fortresses were built in the second half of the 12th century. At that these fortresses were built in the second half of the 12th century. At that time, in the course of a far-reaching administrative reform of the time, in the course of a far-reaching administrative reform of the Byzantine Empire, the Eastern Rhodope, or Achrydos, as they were then Byzantine Empire, the Eastern Rhodope, or Achrydos, as they were then known, became a separate administrative region, which required its own known, became a separate administrative region, which required its own infrastructure of roads and permanent fortifications.infrastructure of roads and permanent fortifications.

The Byzantine chroniclers recorded the names of The Byzantine chroniclers recorded the names of the main fortresses in Achrydos, most of which the main fortresses in Achrydos, most of which have been located. The regional centre in the have been located. The regional centre in the 13th-14th century was Mneakos, in the 13th-14th century was Mneakos, in the immediate vicinity of today's main town, immediate vicinity of today's main town, Kurdzhali. The West was guarded by the Kurdzhali. The West was guarded by the unassailable Ustra; Ephraim was on the road to unassailable Ustra; Ephraim was on the road to Hadrianopole along the Arda river, close to the Hadrianopole along the Arda river, close to the present-day Stouden Kladenets dam. Ancient present-day Stouden Kladenets dam. Ancient Perperikon guarded the North, while the smaller Perperikon guarded the North, while the smaller forts Krivous and Pбtmos, whose ruins have not forts Krivous and Pбtmos, whose ruins have not yet been located, were somewhere in the central yet been located, were somewhere in the central part of the region and, respectively, on its part of the region and, respectively, on its southern outskirt. There were, of course, dozens southern outskirt. There were, of course, dozens of other strongholds which may be discovered of other strongholds which may be discovered archaeologically, even though their names do not archaeologically, even though their names do not exist in the surviving records.exist in the surviving records.

The Eastern Rhodope fortresses were designated in contemporary The Eastern Rhodope fortresses were designated in contemporary historical accounts as polichnia (or 'townlets'). This has long historical accounts as polichnia (or 'townlets'). This has long puzzled the experts as most of the fortresses were apparently puzzled the experts as most of the fortresses were apparently quite large. After 20 years of archaeological research on the sites quite large. After 20 years of archaeological research on the sites of Mneakos and of the smaller fortresses above the Borovitsa of Mneakos and of the smaller fortresses above the Borovitsa Chalet, at the Zvezdel mine and at Kroumovgrad, and of course, Chalet, at the Zvezdel mine and at Kroumovgrad, and of course, after the latest research at Perperikon, it can safely be argued that after the latest research at Perperikon, it can safely be argued that what the chroniclers meant by polichnion was not the size but the what the chroniclers meant by polichnion was not the size but the characteristic infrastructure of these fortified towns.characteristic infrastructure of these fortified towns.

Most of them were in fact forts, occupied only by a small garrison Most of them were in fact forts, occupied only by a small garrison to maintain the water reservoirs and the stockpiles of food. In to maintain the water reservoirs and the stockpiles of food. In peacetime, the local population lived in unfortified towns and peacetime, the local population lived in unfortified towns and villages at the foot of the stronghold and further afield, in the villages at the foot of the stronghold and further afield, in the fertile river valleys. When a war broke out, however, everybody fertile river valleys. When a war broke out, however, everybody sought refuge behind the fortress walls and the peasants became sought refuge behind the fortress walls and the peasants became warriors. As for fresh food, according to the 12th-century historian warriors. As for fresh food, according to the 12th-century historian Nicetas Choniates, the villagers came with their own live meat and Nicetas Choniates, the villagers came with their own live meat and dairy, i.e., their herds of livestock, for which a reserve of fodder dairy, i.e., their herds of livestock, for which a reserve of fodder was kept in the fortress.was kept in the fortress.

The fortresses varied in design and purpose. At The fortresses varied in design and purpose. At Mneakos, a mighty citadel with five towers was Mneakos, a mighty citadel with five towers was built on the highest ground within the outer wall built on the highest ground within the outer wall perimeter. The French knight, Geoffroy de perimeter. The French knight, Geoffroy de Vilardouin, who saw the city in 1206, was Vilardouin, who saw the city in 1206, was enchanted by the magnificent castle above the enchanted by the magnificent castle above the Arda river. The fortress at Zvezdel guarded a Arda river. The fortress at Zvezdel guarded a local gold mine, which explains some very local gold mine, which explains some very interesting finds in this otherwise unassuming interesting finds in this otherwise unassuming stronghold. And Perperikon itself was also stronghold. And Perperikon itself was also assigned the protection of the goldmines in the assigned the protection of the goldmines in the area.area.The fortresses in Achrydos were ruined during The fortresses in Achrydos were ruined during the civil war of 1341-46 as the area became its the civil war of 1341-46 as the area became its main battleground and bands mercenaries on a main battleground and bands mercenaries on a rampage plundered and set the cities on fire. As rampage plundered and set the cities on fire. As John VI Cantacuzenus wrote later, "we killed John VI Cantacuzenus wrote later, "we killed those whom we had come to liberate."those whom we had come to liberate."

Corridors of Power in Corridors of Power in PerperikonPerperikon

Down the Steps of Roman TimeDown the Steps of Roman Time

The Roman Traces in The Roman Traces in PereperikonPereperikon

Roman TracesRoman Traces

The Roman Traces in The Roman Traces in PerperikonPerperikon

The Antique Theatre in The Antique Theatre in PLOVDIVPLOVDIV

The Roman Stadium in The Roman Stadium in PLOVDIVPLOVDIV

With the Financial With the Financial Support Of Programme “ Support Of Programme “ SOCRATES / COMENIUS SOCRATES / COMENIUS 1”1”