Cherven, Medieval fortress in Rusenski Lom, Bulgaria
Cherven is a medieval fortress built on limestone cliffs rising high above the Cherni Lom River. The complex covers roughly one square kilometer and features stone walls, towers, and multiple levels of fortifications connected by passages and structures.
The fortress began as a Byzantine settlement in the 6th century and grew to become the second-largest administrative center in medieval Bulgaria after Tsarevets. Fortifications were expanded over centuries to maintain control of this strategic location.
From 1235 onward, the site served as the seat of the Bulgarian Orthodox Bishop, making it a key religious center for the surrounding region. Craftspeople including blacksmiths and goldsmiths worked within the fortified area, leaving evidence of their trades in the ruins.
The best time to visit is during warmer months when the paths are easier to walk and visibility across the landscape is clear. Sturdy footwear is essential since the terrain is uneven and sometimes steep in places.
The fortress contains underground water passages carved into the limestone cliffs that ensured water access during long sieges. This sophisticated system reveals the technical skill of the builders and their foresight in planning a sustainable settlement.
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