- Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari
Location: Sveshtari, Razgrad Province, Bulgaria
Year of Inscription: 1985
Criteria: (i) represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii) exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history.
Overview: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is a unique monument from the Hellenistic period (3rd century BCE) and is located in the northeastern part of Bulgaria. The tomb is known for its impressive architectural and decorative features, which are a testament to the advanced cultural and artistic achievements of the Thracians.
Prominent Features: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is an underground tomb consisting of a main chamber and three side chambers, which are connected by narrow passages. Some of the most prominent features of the tomb include:
The Ceiling: The ceiling of the main chamber is decorated with a unique, intricate relief of 10 female figures, which are believed to represent the mourners of the deceased. The figures are arranged in a circle and are wearing long, flowing robes and elaborate headdresses.
The Sarcophagus: The sarcophagus in the main chamber is made of marble and is decorated with scenes from Thracian mythology, including a depiction of the mythical horseman and a scene of the deceased in the afterlife.
The Decorative Elements: The tomb is adorned with a variety of decorative elements, including carved rosettes, painted frescoes, and intricate moldings.
History: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari was discovered in 1982 by archaeologists from the Varna Archaeological Museum. It is believed to have been built for a Thracian princess, possibly the wife of the ruler of the Getae tribe. The tomb is a remarkable example of the art and culture of the Thracians, an ancient people who inhabited parts of the Balkans from the 5th century BCE to the 3rd century CE.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is located in a quiet, rural area and offers a peaceful and educational outing for families. The nearby town of Isperih offers several opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
Entry Fees: The admission fee for the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is 10 Bulgarian lev (approximately 5 euro) per person. Children under the age of 7 can enter for free.
How to Reach It: By Car: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is located about 400 kilometers northeast of Sofia. There is a parking lot near the entrance to the tomb. By Bus: There are several bus services that connect Sofia with the town of Isperih, which is located about 10 kilometers from the tomb. From Isperih, visitors can take a taxi to the tomb.
Where to Stay: There are several options for accommodation near the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari, including hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include:
Next Stop: Madara Rider,to get to the Madara Rider from Sveshtari, you can take a bus or drive.
By Bus:
Year of Inscription: 1985
Criteria: (i) represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii) exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history.
Overview: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is a unique monument from the Hellenistic period (3rd century BCE) and is located in the northeastern part of Bulgaria. The tomb is known for its impressive architectural and decorative features, which are a testament to the advanced cultural and artistic achievements of the Thracians.
Prominent Features: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is an underground tomb consisting of a main chamber and three side chambers, which are connected by narrow passages. Some of the most prominent features of the tomb include:
The Ceiling: The ceiling of the main chamber is decorated with a unique, intricate relief of 10 female figures, which are believed to represent the mourners of the deceased. The figures are arranged in a circle and are wearing long, flowing robes and elaborate headdresses.
The Sarcophagus: The sarcophagus in the main chamber is made of marble and is decorated with scenes from Thracian mythology, including a depiction of the mythical horseman and a scene of the deceased in the afterlife.
The Decorative Elements: The tomb is adorned with a variety of decorative elements, including carved rosettes, painted frescoes, and intricate moldings.
History: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari was discovered in 1982 by archaeologists from the Varna Archaeological Museum. It is believed to have been built for a Thracian princess, possibly the wife of the ruler of the Getae tribe. The tomb is a remarkable example of the art and culture of the Thracians, an ancient people who inhabited parts of the Balkans from the 5th century BCE to the 3rd century CE.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is located in a quiet, rural area and offers a peaceful and educational outing for families. The nearby town of Isperih offers several opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
Entry Fees: The admission fee for the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is 10 Bulgarian lev (approximately 5 euro) per person. Children under the age of 7 can enter for free.
How to Reach It: By Car: The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is located about 400 kilometers northeast of Sofia. There is a parking lot near the entrance to the tomb. By Bus: There are several bus services that connect Sofia with the town of Isperih, which is located about 10 kilometers from the tomb. From Isperih, visitors can take a taxi to the tomb.
Where to Stay: There are several options for accommodation near the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari, including hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include:
- Hotel Sveti Nikola - This 3-star hotel is located in the nearby town of Razgrad, about 40 kilometers from the tomb. It offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a spa.
- Guesthouse The Castle - This guesthouse is located in the town of Isperih, about 10 kilometers from the tomb. It offers traditional Bulgarian-style rooms and a garden.
Next Stop: Madara Rider,to get to the Madara Rider from Sveshtari, you can take a bus or drive.
By Bus:
- Take a bus from Sveshtari to Razgrad, which is about 30 km away from Sveshtari.
- From Razgrad, take another bus to the town of Shumen, which is about 40 km from Razgrad.
- Finally, take a local bus or taxi from Shumen to the Madara Rider, which is located about 12 km outside the town.
- Take Route 2/E70 from Sveshtari to Razgrad.
- From Razgrad, take Route 7/E773 to Shumen.
- Follow the signs to the Madara Rider, which is located about 12 km outside the town.