Thracian rock cult complex "Orlovi Skali’’

The rock cult complex “Orlovi Skali’’ (Eagle Rocks) is unique in Bulgaria due to its impressive size and well-preserved condition. Located three kilometers from the town of Ardino, the complex includes 100 niches carved into the rocks, each 70 cm high and 34 cm deep, situated in hard-to-reach places on steep volcanic cliffs. Although three of them have already been destroyed, the remaining 97 still retain their trapezoidal shape.

Such niches are found only in the Eastern Rhodopes, in the region of the Arda River. According to scientific research, they were created by the Thracians and date back to the 4th- 5th century BC, likely belonging to the Odrysian tribe.

Various theories exist regarding the rituals conducted at Orlovi skali. The prevailing opinion is that the Thracians used the niches to place burial urns. The discovered charred clay fragments around the rocks suggest that ritual burning took place there. However, Professor Valeria Fol proposes that the trapezoidal holes are the result of one-time ritual activities rather than permanent burial practices.

Orlovi skali, like other similar sites, does not show a pattern in the arrangement of the niches. The Thracian craftsmen seemingly carved them into every suitable smooth surface of the chosen rocks. Similar cult objects can be found near the village of Ardino, as well as in the areas around Krumovgrad, Kardzhali, and the villages of Sarnitsa, Vulche Pole, Yontchevo, Dushkata, and Dolno Cherkovishte.

Entrance Fee:

5 BGN (for adults)

3 BGN (for pupils and students)

Categories

• Landmarks
• Cultural landmarks
• Thracian sanctuaries

Regions

• town of Ardino

Location