Belovo Basilica, 6th century basilica ruins near Golyamo Belovo, Bulgaria

Belovo Basilica is a three-nave church ruin from the 6th century built with brick and stone, rising among densely forested mountains. The structure displays red brick arches and multiple columns that divide the interior into different sections.

The basilica was built in the first half of the 6th century as the cathedral of the Levki diocese, part of the Philippopolis metropolis; its first known bishop, Simeon of Levki, took part in the 879 Council of Constantinople. A monastery grew around it in the Middle Ages, and both were destroyed by the Ottomans in the 17th century. Petar Mutafchiev produced the first scholarly description in 1915, and André Grabar led the first excavations in 1924, financed by Thomas Whittemore.

The basilica was the cathedral of the Levki diocese, listed under the metropolis of Philippopolis; its first known bishop, Simeon of Levki, took part in the 879 Council of Constantinople. A monastery grew around the church in the Middle Ages, and the site is still venerated: a small single-nave church was built beside the ruins in 1999 and draws visitors from the surrounding villages.

The ruins sit in a heavily forested mountain area and are not easily reached, so expect a demanding hike or need for specialized transport. It is wise to check current trail conditions beforehand and wear sturdy footwear for your visit.

The basilica has no dome: a row of baldachin-like arches formed its roof, a feature that sets it apart from most other early Christian churches in the Balkans. The three-nave interior measures 28 by 17.15 metres, with two rows of four columns.