Thracian tomb Helvetia, Ancient Thracian tomb in Shipka, Bulgaria.
The Helvetia tomb is an ancient Thracian burial monument with a long corridor system leading to a rectangular antechamber and burial chamber. The structure uses large stone blocks and iron clamps, featuring an intricately designed ceiling that combines different architectural styles.
Built during the 4th century BC, the monument reflects ancient Thracian construction methods. Its discovery in 1996 by archaeologist Georgi Kitov, supported by the Swiss Helvetia Foundation, brought this site into modern awareness.
The tomb entrance displays carved grooves from ritual offerings and once held two horse skeletons, revealing how Thracian rulers conducted their funeral customs.
The site sits in the Valley of the Thracian Kings and welcomes visitors daily from 09:00 to 17:30 throughout the year. On-site information helps you understand the structure and its historical role without needing advance preparation.
The ceiling showcases a transition in Thracian building techniques, mixing double-pitched and semi-cylindrical forms with faux marble block patterns. This hybrid approach reveals how builders experimented with different roof designs during that era.
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